Rising since 2015, #8,243 for boys today.
Popularity of Nihaan since 2015
Babies named Nihaan per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 2010s | 39 |
| 2020s | 64 |
Meaning & origin
Nihaan is a relatively modern addition to the U.S. baby name charts, first recorded in 2015. As of 2025, it ranks 8,243, with approximately 1 in 189,786 boys receiving this name. Its peak in popularity came in 2022, and it has been on a steady upward trajectory since its debut. Despite its recent emergence, Nihaan carries ancient roots in Persian and Sanskrit, where it conveys themes of concealment and divinity. The name's exotic sound and spiritual undertones have likely contributed to its growing appeal among parents seeking a distinctive yet meaningful choice.
Nihaan derives from Persian 'nihān' (نهان) meaning 'hidden, secret' and is used as a name for God in Sufi tradition. It also appears in Sanskrit as 'nihāna' relating to 'binding' or 'covering'. The name entered common use in India and Pakistan through Persianate influence.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Nihi, Nanu
Sibling names for Nihaan
Names that share Nihaan's style, for a brother or sister.
