MallowbyNames

Niv

NEEV · Derived from Hebrew, meaning 'expression' or 'speech'.

2025 rank (boys)
#10,695
Babies named in 2025
6
Peak popularity
2020
2025 frequency
1 in 284,679 boys
Usually for
Girls & boys
Trend
Rising since 2014

Rising since 2014, #10,695 for boys today.

Popularity of Niv since 1992

Babies named Niv per year in U.S. Social Security records.

4711200020102020Most births 2020GirlsBoys
GirlsBoys
Data table (by decade)
DecadeGirlsBoys
1990s017
2000s020
2010s532
2020s3128

Meaning & origin

Niv is a modern Hebrew name that has been rising in use in the United States since around 2014. First recorded in the U.S. in 1992, it reached its peak popularity in 2020. The name's meaning, 'expression' or 'speech', ties it to a quality of eloquence. As of 2023, Niv's rank was 10,695, with an incidence of about 1 in every 284,679 births. It remains rare among the top U.S. baby names and has no recorded top states, suggesting widespread but very sparse use. Its unisex nature makes it a versatile choice, though it tends to be more common for boys. The name's rising trajectory since 2014 indicates growing interest, particularly among families seeking Hebrew or international names with a modern sound.

Niv is a modern Hebrew name that comes from the Hebrew word 'niv' (נִיב), meaning 'expression', 'speech', or 'proverb'. It gained popularity in Israel from the late 20th century onward. The name is often chosen for its association with eloquence and communication.

Sibling names for Niv

Names that share Niv's style, for a brother or sister.

Sisters: Noa, Maya, Yael, Shira, Tamar

Brothers: Ari, Lior, Ziv, Omri, Erez

A parent animal hugging its little one, the personalized name page

N is for Niv, our favorite little person.

N is for Niv…”

In a Mallowby alphabet book, Niv's letter becomes Niv's page: hand-illustrated, printed hardcover or paperback, made just for them.

Make Niv's book

Books for siblings or grandkids? The second book is 15% off.

Questions parents ask

What does the name Niv mean?
Niv means 'expression' or 'speech' in Hebrew.
How popular is the name Niv?
Niv is uncommon but rising in the United States. In 2023, it ranked 10,695 and was given to about 1 in 284,679 newborns.
Is Niv a boy or girl name?
Niv is unisex, used for both boys and girls, though more commonly for boys in Israel.