Holding steady, #7,491 for girls today.
Popularity of Niani since 1972
Babies named Niani per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1970s | 6 |
| 1980s | 0 |
| 1990s | 79 |
| 2000s | 89 |
| 2010s | 56 |
| 2020s | 81 |
Meaning & origin
Niani is a rare modern name that first appeared in U.S. records in 1972. It is almost exclusively used for girls and has seen a slight increase in use in recent years, with its peak rank of 7,491 occurring in 2023. In 2025, roughly 1 in 114,805 newborns were named Niani, indicating its scarcity. The name is most popular in Georgia, where it is occasionally chosen by parents seeking a distinctive and melodic name. While its origins are unclear, Niani likely follows the trend of creating new names with African-inspired sounds.
The name Niani is a modern coinage with no clear derivation. It may be a variant of the African name Niani, but there is no definitive evidence. The name first appeared in U.S. records in 1972 and has seen occasional use, particularly in the 2020s.
Where Niani is most popular
Births per 100,000 girls by state, 2025. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Nia, Ani
Sibling names for Niani
Names that share Niani's style, for a brother or sister.
