MallowbyNames

Narada

नारदNAH-rah-dah · Possibly derived from Sanskrit 'nara' meaning 'man' or 'human'.

Peak popularity
1980
Usually for
Boys
Trend
Holding steady

Holding steady.

Popularity of Narada since 1979

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

163248198020002020Most births 1980Boys
Data table (by decade)
DecadeBoys
1970s19
1980s154
1990s14
2000s14
2010s0
2020s0

Meaning & origin

Narada is a rare name in the United States, first recorded in 1979 and peaking in popularity in 1980. Despite its low usage, the name carries deep cultural resonance through its connection to the Hindu sage Narada, a central figure in texts like the Mahabharata and Puranas. Its stability over the decades, with no significant swings in usage, reflects its steady but niche appeal among families seeking a name with mythological roots. The name has not appeared in any top state rankings, underscoring its rarity. For those drawn to names from Indian tradition, Narada offers a distinctive choice with a storied past.

Narada is a name from Hindu mythology, borne by the divine sage Narada, a devotee of Vishnu and a messenger between the gods and humans. The name is formed from the Sanskrit root 'nara' (man, human) with an added suffix, though the exact meaning remains uncertain. It has been used in India and among the Indian diaspora for centuries, often given to boys in families with strong religious traditions.

Nicknames & variants

Nicknames: Naru

Variants: Naarada

Sibling names for Narada

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

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

N is for Narada, our favorite little boy.

N is for Narada…”

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

Make Narada's book

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Questions parents ask

What does Narada mean?
The name Narada is thought to mean 'man' or 'human' from Sanskrit 'nara', but it is most famously associated with the divine sage Narada in Hindu mythology.
How popular is Narada?
Narada has never ranked in the U.S. top 1000. Its peak usage was in 1980, and it remains a rare name in the United States.
Is Narada a boy's or girl's name?
Narada is traditionally a boy's name, especially due to its mythological male bearer.