Rising since 2011, #2,718 for boys today.
Popularity of Virat since 2011
Babies named Virat per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 2010s | 274 |
| 2020s | 217 |
Meaning & origin
Virat is a modern and rare name in the United States, first appearing in Social Security records in 2011. In 2025, it ranked 2,718th, with about 1 in 36,342 boys receiving the name. Its popularity peaked in 2019, and its trajectory has been rising since 2011, driven by the fame of Indian cricketer Virat Kohli. The name's top states are Washington, California, and Texas, reflecting concentrations of Indian-American communities. Despite its rarity, the name carries cultural weight in India, where it is associated with strength and cosmic significance. For parents seeking a distinctive name tied to Indian heritage and contemporary celebrity, Virat offers a unique choice.
The name Virat is most prominent in modern India, especially following the international fame of cricketer Virat Kohli. Its etymology is debated: it may derive from the Sanskrit root 'virāj' meaning 'to shine' or 'to rule', or from 'vīra' meaning 'hero' or 'brave'. In Hindu texts, 'Virat' also refers to the cosmic form of Vishnu. The name's modern rise in the United States began around 2011, coinciding with Kohli's career, though it remains rare.
Where Virat is most popular
Births per 100,000 boys by state, 2025. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: V, Viru
Variants: Veerat, Virat
Sibling names for Virat
Names that share Virat's style, for a brother or sister.
