Rising since 1994, #3,379 for boys today.
Popularity of Madhav since 1992
Babies named Madhav per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1990s | 44 |
| 2000s | 162 |
| 2010s | 253 |
| 2020s | 183 |
Meaning & origin
Madhav is a name of Sanskrit origin, deeply rooted in Hindu tradition as an epithet of Lord Krishna. In the United States, the name has been in use since 1992, and its popularity has been rising steadily since 1994. As of 2025, Madhav ranked #3379, with approximately 1 in every 50,238 boys receiving the name. The name reached its peak popularity in 2023, reflecting a growing appreciation for traditional Indian names among American families. While it is not commonly given in any single state, its presence across the country speaks to the increasing diversity of naming trends. Madhav offers a meaningful connection to cultural heritage and spiritual significance, making it a distinctive choice for families valuing tradition.
Madhav derives from the Sanskrit root 'madh', meaning 'honey' or 'sweetness', and is an epithet of the Hindu god Krishna, who is associated with spring and love. The name appears in ancient Hindu texts and has been used as a given name in India for centuries, particularly among families devoted to Krishna. It remains a common name in Hindu communities, both in India and among the diaspora.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Madhu
Variants: Madhava
Sibling names for Madhav
Names that share Madhav's style, for a brother or sister.

