Holding steady, #12,008 for boys today.
Popularity of Nakul since 1988
Babies named Nakul per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1980s | 5 |
| 1990s | 42 |
| 2000s | 93 |
| 2010s | 45 |
| 2020s | 20 |
Meaning & origin
Nakul is a rare name in the United States, with first recorded use in 1988 and a peak in 2004. As of 2025, it ranks 12,008, with about 1 in 341,615 boys receiving the name. Its trajectory has been stable, reflecting its consistent but niche appeal among families with Indian heritage. The name's deep roots in the Mahabharata give it cultural and literary significance, though it remains uncommon in broader U.S. naming trends.
Nakul is a Sanskrit name from the Indian epic Mahabharata, where Nakula was one of the five Pandava brothers, known for his beauty and skill with the sword. The name is derived from the Sanskrit root 'nakula', meaning 'mongoose' or 'handsome', though the exact etymology is debated. It has been a traditional name in Hindu families for centuries, especially in India.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Naku, Kul
Variants: Nakula, Nakul
Sibling names for Nakul
Names that share Nakul's style, for a brother or sister.
