Holding steady.
Popularity of Nyoka since 1941
Babies named Nyoka per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1940s | 276 |
| 1950s | 174 |
| 1960s | 96 |
| 1970s | 196 |
| 1980s | 111 |
| 1990s | 67 |
| 2000s | 26 |
| 2010s | 0 |
| 2020s | 0 |
Meaning & origin
Nyoka is a rare and exotic name with uncertain origins, possibly from Bantu languages meaning 'snake'. It first appeared in U.S. birth records in 1941, with a modest peak in 1943. After that, its use declined and has remained stable at low levels through 2025. Despite its rarity, the name carries a distinctive sound and has ties to 1940s jungle adventure serials, though no famous bearers have emerged. For parents seeking an unusual name with an African feel, Nyoka offers a unique choice with a subtle cinematic history.
Nyoka is a name of uncertain origin, though it appears in several Bantu languages where it can mean 'snake' or 'serpent'. It gained some use in the United States in the 1940s, possibly influenced by the jungle film character Nyoka, appearing in serials such as 'Nyoka the Jungle Girl' (1942). However, no definitive African source has been confirmed for the name's adoption in the U.S.
Sibling names for Nyoka
Names that share Nyoka's style, for a brother or sister.
