Holding steady, #10,107 for girls today.
Popularity of Niharika since 1996
Babies named Niharika per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1990s | 32 |
| 2000s | 154 |
| 2010s | 158 |
| 2020s | 58 |
Meaning & origin
Niharika is a Sanskrit-derived feminine name that first appeared in U.S. birth records in 1996. Its peak popularity came in 2012, reflecting a broader trend of Indian names entering American mainstream use. As of 2025, the name ranks 10,107, with a frequency of about 1 in 178,585 girls, indicating its rarity. The trajectory has been stable in recent years, suggesting steady but niche appeal. While top states are not recorded due to low frequency, the name is most likely found in areas with significant Indian American communities. Its meaning as 'dew drop' or 'small flower' contributes to its delicate, nature-inspired charm.
Niharika derives from the Sanskrit word 'nihārikā' (निहारिका), meaning 'a small flower' or 'dew drop'. It is also a term used in Indian astronomy for 'nebula'. The name has been used in India for several decades and gained modest popularity among Hindu families in the late 20th and early 21st centuries.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Niha, Rika, Niku, Nihari
Variants: Niharica, Niharikaa, Neharika
Sibling names for Niharika
Names that share Niharika's style, for a brother or sister.
