MallowbyNames

Madhav

माधवMAH-dhahv · A name of Krishna meaning 'spring-like' or 'related to the season of spring'; also interpreted as 'sweet like honey'.

2025 rank (boys)
#3,379
Babies named in 2025
34
Peak popularity
2023
2025 frequency
1 in 50,238 boys
Usually for
Boys
Trend
Rising since 1994

Rising since 1994, #3,379 for boys today.

Popularity of Madhav since 1992

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

122335200020102020Most births 2023Boys
Data table (by decade)
DecadeBoys
1990s44
2000s162
2010s253
2020s183

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.

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

M is for Madhav, our favorite little boy.

M is for Madhav…”

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

Make Madhav's book

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

Questions parents ask

What does the name Madhav mean?
Madhav means 'spring-like' or 'sweet like honey' and is an epithet of the Hindu god Krishna.
How popular is the name Madhav in the United States?
Madhav was ranked #3379 in 2025, with about 1 in every 50,238 boys given the name that year.
Is Madhav a boy's name?
Yes, Madhav is traditionally a boy's name in Hindu culture.