MallowbyNames

Mohini

मोहिनीmoh-HEE-nee · One who enchants or captivates; also a name of the female avatar of the Hindu god Vishnu.

Peak popularity
1996
Usually for
Girls
Trend
Holding steady

Holding steady.

Popularity of Mohini since 1978

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

5914198020002020Most births 1996Girls
Data table (by decade)
DecadeGirls
1970s6
1980s10
1990s75
2000s42
2010s17
2020s8

Meaning & origin

Mohini is a Sanskrit name rooted in Hindu mythology, where it refers to the enchanting female avatar of Vishnu. First recorded in the United States in 1978, the name saw a modest peak in 1996 but has remained stable since, never entering the top 1000. Its exotic sound and mythological depth appeal to parents seeking a name with spiritual resonance, especially those with Indian heritage. The name's trajectory shows no recent revival, but its distinctiveness ensures it remains a choice for those drawn to its lyrical quality and cultural significance.

Mohini is derived from the Sanskrit word 'moha,' meaning delusion or enchantment. In Hindu mythology, Mohini is the female form assumed by the god Vishnu to distract demons, often associated with the churning of the ocean. The name has been used in India for centuries and appears in classical texts, though it saw a rise in the late 20th century among English-speaking families.

Nicknames & variants

Nicknames: Mo, Moni

Variants: Mohinee

Sibling names for Mohini

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

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

M is for Mohini, our favorite little girl.

M is for Mohini…”

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

Make Mohini's book

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

Questions parents ask

What does Mohini mean?
Mohini means 'one who enchants' or 'captivates,' derived from the Sanskrit word 'moha.' It is also the name of the female avatar of the Hindu god Vishnu.
How popular is the name Mohini?
Mohini first appeared in U.S. records in 1978 and peaked in popularity in 1996. As of 2025, its usage remains stable but rare, with no rank in the top 1000.
Is Mohini a boy or girl name?
Mohini is exclusively a girl's name, derived from a female mythological figure.