MallowbyNames

Naven

NAY-ven · Of uncertain origin; possibly a modern coinage or a variant of Nevan, which may mean 'little saint' from Irish.

Peak popularity
2019
Usually for
Boys
Trend
Holding steady

Holding steady.

Popularity of Naven since 1997

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

369200020102020Most births 2016Boys
Data table (by decade)
DecadeBoys
1990s5
2000s54
2010s47
2020s16

Meaning & origin

Naven first entered U.S. birth records in 1997, a late 20th-century arrival with no clear etymology. It reached its highest usage in 2019, yet even then it did not approach the top 1000; its trajectory has been stable with minimal fluctuation. The name resembles Irish-derived Nevan but also shares sounds with surnames and place names, making it a versatile modern choice. While it has not been recorded in any top states, its rarity and straightforward pronunciation appeal to parents seeking an uncommon name. Its consistency in use over nearly three decades suggests a steady if modest presence, and its lack of a single definitive origin allows for personal interpretation.

Naven is a name of uncertain origin. It may be a modern American coinage, possibly influenced by surnames or place names, or a respelling of Nevan, an Irish name derived from Naoimhín meaning 'little saint'. The name first appeared in U.S. records in 1997 and saw its peak usage in 2019, though it has never entered the top 1000.

Nicknames & variants

Nicknames: Nav

Variants: Nevan, Niven, Navin

Sibling names for Naven

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

Sisters: Maren, Sloan, Teagan, Brynn, Eden

Brothers: Kellan, Rowan, Declan, Gavin, Evan

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

N is for Naven, our favorite little boy.

N is for Naven…”

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

Make Naven's book

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

Questions parents ask

What does the name Naven mean?
The meaning of Naven is uncertain. It may be a modern invention or a variant of Nevan, an Irish name meaning 'little saint'.
How popular is Naven?
Naven has never ranked in the U.S. top 1000. Its peak year was 2019, and it has remained consistently rare since first recorded in 1997.
Is Naven a boy or girl name?
Naven is predominantly used as a boy's name.