A 1980s favorite, climbing again.
Popularity of Nirav since 1972
Babies named Nirav per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1970s | 94 |
| 1980s | 158 |
| 1990s | 63 |
| 2000s | 63 |
| 2010s | 120 |
| 2020s | 48 |
Meaning & origin
Nirav is a masculine name of Sanskrit origin, meaning 'quiet', 'calm', or 'gentle'. It first appeared in U.S. birth records in 1972 and enjoyed a peak in popularity in 1984. While its overall rank is modest at 6,446th in 2025, the name has been on a rising trajectory since 2003, suggesting renewed interest. Nirav is used primarily in Indian communities and has not seen wide use across U.S. states, with no top states recorded. The name's revival in the 1980s and its steady growth over the past two decades indicate a solid, if niche, appeal among parents seeking a meaningful, understated name.
Nirav is a Sanskrit name meaning 'quiet', 'calm', or 'gentle'. It is commonly used in India and among the Indian diaspora, particularly by Gujarati-speaking communities. The name reflects a valued personal trait and has been in use since at least the 1970s.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Niru, Nir
Variants: Nirav
Sibling names for Nirav
Names that share Nirav's style, for a brother or sister.
