Holding steady.
Popularity of Manish since 1968
Babies named Manish per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1960s | 15 |
| 1970s | 195 |
| 1980s | 130 |
| 1990s | 62 |
| 2000s | 81 |
| 2010s | 44 |
| 2020s | 10 |
Meaning & origin
Manish is a Sanskrit name that gained popularity in the United States starting in the late 1960s, first recorded in 1968. Its peak year was 1975, reflecting a broader era of increased immigration from India and cultural interest in Indian names. Since then, its usage has been stable but low, never entering the top 1000 national rankings. The name's etymology is solidly derived from Sanskrit, combining 'manas' (mind) and 'isha' (lord), making it a meaningful choice that resonates with intellect and spirituality. While it has not seen a revival, it remains consistently in use among Indian-American families, often paired with sibling names that also have Sanskrit roots.
Manish derives from Sanskrit मनिष (manisha), composed of 'manas' (mind) and 'isha' (lord), thus 'lord of the mind' or 'intellect'. It is also the name of a month in the traditional Hindu lunisolar calendar, corresponding to January-February, which may have influenced its adoption as a given name. Commonly used in India and among the Indian diaspora, it has been particularly favored since the mid-20th century.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Manu
Sibling names for Manish
Names that share Manish's style, for a brother or sister.
