Declining since 2022, #2,884 for boys today.
Popularity of Nilan since 2006
Babies named Nilan per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 2000s | 12 |
| 2010s | 158 |
| 2020s | 291 |
Meaning & origin
Nilan is a rare modern name that first appeared in U.S. records in 2006. It reached its peak popularity in 2021, but has been declining in use since 2022. As of 2025, it ranked 2884, with approximately 1 in 39723 boys receiving the name. The name is most common in Texas and California, reflecting its use among South Asian communities. Its etymology is uncertain but likely traces back to the Sanskrit word for 'blue' or 'sapphire', connecting it to a rich linguistic heritage.
The name Nilan likely derives from the Sanskrit word nīla (नील), meaning 'dark blue' or 'sapphire'. It has been used in modern times, particularly in South Asian communities, though its exact historical usage is unclear.
Where Nilan is most popular
Births per 100,000 boys by state, 2025. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
“Nilan” around the world
Where Nilan lands in the latest official birth statistics abroad, matched to the U.S. spelling.
France
10
babies in 2024
Ireland
3
babies in 2025
Sources: INSEE (France) · CSO Ireland (Ireland).
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Nil, Nili
Variants: Neelan, Nilanjan
Sibling names for Nilan
Names that share Nilan's style, for a brother or sister.
