MallowbyNames

Nyan

nee-AN · Often associated with the Burmese word for 'little' or 'small', but its precise meaning as a given name is uncertain.

Peak popularity
2006
Usually for
Boys
Trend
Holding steady

Holding steady.

Popularity of Nyan since 2000

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

4711200020102020Most births 2006Boys
Data table (by decade)
DecadeBoys
2000s51
2010s45
2020s20

Meaning & origin

Nyan is a short, modern name of Burmese origin, first recorded in the United States in 2000. Its peak year of usage was 2006, yet it has never entered the top 1000, remaining a rare choice. The name's meaning is often linked to the Burmese word for 'little', but this connection is not definitive. Nyan's trajectory has been stable, with very few annual births, primarily concentrated in states with diverse populations. Its rise in the early 2000s may coincide with the viral Nyan Cat meme, but no direct cultural influence is confirmed. Parents drawn to simple, two-syllable names may consider Nyan for its distinctive sound and cross-cultural appeal.

Nyan is a name of Burmese origin, likely derived from the Burmese word meaning 'little' or 'small'. It emerged as a given name in the early 2000s, possibly influenced by internet culture and the popularity of the Nyan Cat meme, though direct connection is unclear. The name has seen modest, stable use in the United States since around the year 2000.

Sibling names for Nyan

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

Sisters: Kai, Mya, Lila, Zara, Nyla

Brothers: Kai, Leo, Eli, Noah, Finn

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

N is for Nyan, our favorite little boy.

N is for Nyan…”

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

Make Nyan's book

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

Questions parents ask

What does the name Nyan mean?
Nyan is often associated with the Burmese word for 'little' or 'small', though its exact meaning as a name is uncertain.
How popular is the name Nyan?
Nyan first appeared in U.S. records in 2000. It ranked outside the top 1000 and has maintained a stable but very low usage, with its peak year in 2006.
Is Nyan a boy's or girl's name?
Nyan is primarily used for boys, though its unisex potential exists given its short, melodic sound.