Rising since 2010, #5,099 for girls today.
Popularity of Nilani since 2010
Babies named Nilani per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 2010s | 95 |
| 2020s | 144 |
Meaning & origin
Nilani is a modern addition to the American naming landscape, first recorded in 2010 and showing a rising trajectory ever since. Derived from the Sanskrit word for 'sapphire', it reflects a growing appreciation for names with Indian origins. Its peak popularity occurred in 2023, and as of 2025 it ranks 5,099 with approximately 1 in 64,291 newborns receiving the name. While not yet widespread, Nilani's gentle sound and precious gemstone meaning appeal to parents seeking a distinctive yet culturally rooted name.
Nilani is a feminine name of Sanskrit origin, derived from the word 'nila' (नील) meaning 'dark blue' or 'sapphire'. It is a name with roots in ancient Indian culture, often associated with the precious gemstone. The name has seen modest use in the United States since the 2010s, particularly among families of South Asian heritage.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Nila, Lani, Nini
Variants: Neelani, Nilaani
Sibling names for Nilani
Names that share Nilani's style, for a brother or sister.
