Holding steady, #4,249 for boys today.
Popularity of Shiva since 1968
Babies named Shiva per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls | Boys |
|---|---|---|
| 1960s | 5 | 0 |
| 1970s | 24 | 0 |
| 1980s | 75 | 27 |
| 1990s | 75 | 113 |
| 2000s | 53 | 158 |
| 2010s | 23 | 133 |
| 2020s | 29 | 112 |
Meaning & origin
Shiva is a name of profound religious and cultural significance, drawn from the Sanskrit word for 'auspicious' and the name of the Hindu god of destruction and transformation. In the United States, it has been recorded since at least 1980, with its peak year in popularity occurring in 2025, when it ranked 4,249 and was borne by approximately 1 in 71,170 newborns. The name's trajectory has been stable over recent decades, reflecting its consistent but niche appeal. It is most common in California, a state with a large population of Indian American families. For parents seeking a name with deep spiritual roots and global recognition, Shiva offers a distinctive choice that bridges ancient tradition and modern multicultural identity.
Shiva (शिव, Śiva) is a Sanskrit word meaning 'auspicious' or 'benign'. In Hinduism, Shiva is one of the principal deities, known as the destroyer and transformer within the Trimurti. The name has been used as a given name in India for centuries, often as a devotional name honoring the god. In modern times, it has gained some use outside of India, particularly in Western countries influenced by Hindu philosophy and yoga culture.
Where Shiva is most popular
Births per 100,000 boys by state, 2025. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Nicknames & variants
Variants: Siva
Sibling names for Shiva
Names that share Shiva's style, for a brother or sister.
