MallowbyNames

Gayathri

guh-YAH-tree · A hymn in the Rigveda personified as a goddess, or simply 'song'.

Peak popularity
2006
Usually for
Girls
Trend
Holding steady

Holding steady.

Popularity of Gayathri since 1997

Babies named Gayathri per year in U.S. Social Security records.

4913200020102020Most births 2006Girls
Data table (by decade)
DecadeGirls
1990s17
2000s93
2010s18
2020s5

Meaning & origin

Gayathri entered U.S. records in 1997 and reached its highest ranking in 2006, with a stable trajectory since then. The name has remained a steady choice for families honoring Hindu tradition, reflecting its deep roots in Sanskrit scripture. Its consistent usage over the decades, with no dramatic spikes, suggests a name cherished for its spiritual resonance rather than passing trends.

Gayathri derives from the Sanskrit गायत्री (gāyatrī), referring to a sacred Vedic meter of 24 syllables and the hymn composed in that meter, the Gayatri Mantra. The name is also borne by the Hindu goddess of the mantra, associated with knowledge and wisdom. It has been a traditional name in India for centuries, especially in South Indian Brahmin families.

Nicknames & variants

Nicknames: Gaya

Variants: Gayatri, Gayatry, Gayathri

Sibling names for Gayathri

Names that share Gayathri's style, for a brother or sister.

A parent animal hugging its little one, the personalized name page

G is for Gayathri, our favorite little girl.

G is for Gayathri…”

In a Mallowby alphabet book, Gayathri's letter becomes Gayathri's page: hand-illustrated, printed hardcover or paperback, made just for them.

Make Gayathri's book

Books for siblings or grandkids? The second book is 15% off.

Questions parents ask

What does the name Gayathri mean?
Gayathri refers to a Vedic hymn and its personified goddess, meaning 'song' or 'hymn'.
How popular is Gayathri right now?
Gayathri has been consistently given since 1997 and peaked in popularity in 2006.
Is Gayathri a boy or girl name?
Gayathri is almost exclusively used for girls.