MallowbyNames

Nyana

NYAH-nuh · Of uncertain origin; possibly derived from the Sanskrit word 'jñana' meaning 'knowledge' or 'wisdom', or from an African language.

2025 rank (girls)
#10,107
Babies named in 2025
9
Peak popularity
2012
2025 frequency
1 in 178,585 girls
Usually for
Girls
Trend
Declining since 2006

Declining since 2006, #10,107 for girls today.

Popularity of Nyana since 1962

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

101929198020002020Most births 2007Girls
Data table (by decade)
DecadeGirls
1960s10
1970s0
1980s0
1990s28
2000s221
2010s155
2020s63

Meaning & origin

Nyana is a rare and distinctive name in the United States, first recorded in 1962. Its peak popularity occurred in 2012, though it has never been common. The name's trajectory has been falling since 2006, suggesting a shift in preference. With a current one-in-178,585 birth rate, Nyana remains an uncommon choice, appealing to parents seeking a name with potential cross-cultural roots. While its etymological origins are debated, the name may appeal to those drawn to philosophical meanings or multicultural influences. The name's similarity to more popular names like Maya or Naya may contribute to its occasional use.

Nyana has multiple proposed origins. It may be a variant of the Sanskrit name Jñana, which means 'knowledge' or 'wisdom' in Hindu philosophy. Alternatively, it could be derived from certain African languages, where similar-sounding names carry meanings related to purpose or destiny. The name has been used in the United States since the early 1960s, with a modest but consistent presence, particularly in the 2010s.

Nicknames & variants

Nicknames: Nya, Ana, Ny

Variants: Nayana, Niana, Nya

Sibling names for Nyana

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

Sisters: Maya, Lila, Kira, Zara, Sana

Brothers: Kai, Milo, Ravi, Eli, Nico

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

N is for Nyana, our favorite little girl.

N is for Nyana…”

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

Make Nyana's book

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

Questions parents ask

What does the name Nyana mean?
Nyana likely means 'knowledge' or 'wisdom' if derived from the Sanskrit word jñana. However, its exact meaning is debated, and it may also have origins in African languages.
How popular is the name Nyana?
Nyana is a rare name in the U.S. As of 2025, it ranked 10,107 in popularity, with about 1 in every 178,585 births. Its peak year was 2012.
Is Nyana a boy or girl name?
Nyana is most commonly used as a girl's name, though it could be considered unisex. The U.S. data shows it used almost exclusively for girls.