Rising since 1988, #1,753 for boys today.
Popularity of Shiv since 1984
Babies named Shiv per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1980s | 51 |
| 1990s | 291 |
| 2000s | 627 |
| 2010s | 719 |
| 2020s | 505 |
Meaning & origin
Shiv first entered U.S. naming records in 1984 and has been steadily rising in use, achieving its peak rank of 1753 in 2025. That year, approximately 1 in 18566 boys received the name, making it a relatively rare but increasingly familiar choice. The name's trajectory shows consistent growth since 1988, reflecting broader interest in names from Sanskrit origins and Hindu culture. Geographically, Shiv is most common in New Jersey, Illinois, and Georgia, states with significant Indian-American communities. While it remains a less common alternative to the full form Shiva, its concise sound and strong cultural resonance have helped it gain a steady following among parents seeking a name with spiritual depth and modern appeal.
Shiv is a modern shortened form of the Sanskrit name Shiva, meaning 'auspicious' or 'blessing.' In Hindu tradition, Shiva is one of the principal deities, known as the destroyer and transformer. The use of Shiv as a given name became more common in the late 20th century, particularly in India and among the Indian diaspora.
Where Shiv is most popular
Births per 100,000 boys by state, 2025. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Sibling names for Shiv
Names that share Shiv's style, for a brother or sister.
