MallowbyNames

Ngan

NgânNGAHN · Meaning debated; often interpreted as 'silver' or 'subtle' depending on the Sino-Vietnamese character used.

Peak popularity
1991
Usually for
Girls
Trend
Holding steady

Holding steady.

Popularity of Ngan since 1982

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

510151990200020102020Most births 1991Girls
Data table (by decade)
DecadeGirls
1980s63
1990s84
2000s62
2010s5
2020s5

Meaning & origin

The name Ngan first appeared in U.S. records in 1982, with its peak usage occurring in 1991. Despite having no top 1000 ranking, the name has maintained a stable trajectory with consistent but rare usage. In its peak year of 1991, Ngan was given to a small number of newborns, reflecting its status as a culturally specific choice primarily within Vietnamese American communities. The name's appeal lies in its simplicity and melodic sound, carrying potential meanings of 'silver' or 'subtlety' that resonate with Vietnamese heritage. While not widely adopted, Ngan remains a distinctive and meaningful option for families seeking a name deeply rooted in Vietnamese traditions.

Ngan is a Vietnamese name that can be written with various Sino-Vietnamese characters, each carrying different meanings. The most common associations are with characters meaning 'silver' (銀/ngân) or 'subtle, elegant' (雅/nga). In Vietnamese tradition, names are often chosen for their positive connotations and aesthetic sound. The name has been used in Vietnam since at least the 20th century.

Sibling names for Ngan

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

Sisters: Hien, Lan, Mai, Thao, Yen, Phung

Brothers: Duc, Hai, Minh, Tam, Tuan

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

N is for Ngan, our favorite little girl.

N is for Ngan…”

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

Make Ngan's book

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

Questions parents ask

What does the name Ngan mean?
Ngan is a Vietnamese name with multiple possible meanings depending on the Sino-Vietnamese characters used to write it, such as 'silver' or 'subtle'. The exact meaning varies by the specific character chosen.
Is Ngan a popular name?
According to U.S. Social Security data, Ngan has been in use since 1982 but has never ranked in the top 1000. Its peak year was 1991, and it remains a stable, infrequently chosen name.
Is Ngan typically a girl's name or a boy's name?
Ngan is almost exclusively used as a feminine name in Vietnam and among Vietnamese communities worldwide.