Hilsa

a type of fish
Bengali origin · Unisex name
50% boys50% girls
#1546US 2023
10Births / yr
Stable
Top 1.1%Percentile

What does Hilsa mean and where does it come from?

Hilsa refers to a species of fish, known for its significance in Bengali cuisine and culture.

Cultural significance
The Hilsa fish is a staple in Bengali households and is celebrated during festivals and special occasions.
Peak popularity
Reached #1546 in 2015 — currently #1546 in the US.
🌿
Related Reading
Bengali-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →

How else can you spell Hilsa?

Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive

What middle names flow best with Hilsa?

Hilsa works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful

Hilsa Jack
One syllable · timeless choice
Hilsa John
One syllable · timeless choice
Hilsa Miles
One syllable · vintage charm
Hilsa Leah
One syllable · timeless choice
Hilsa Brooks
One syllable · timeless choice
Hilsa Gael
One syllable · timeless choice
👶
Middle Names
The best middle names for Hilsa
Browse ideas →

How popular is Hilsa right now?

Holding steady — currently #1546 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names

US Trend 20192023#1546 · Top 1.1%
2019
2020
2021
2022
2023
YearUS RankBirthsvs Prior Year
2023#154610stable
2022#154610stable
2021#154610stable
2020#154610stable
2019#154610
💎Hilsa is exceptionally rare — it does not appear in US Social Security records, meaning fewer than 5 babies per year have received this name.

What are good nicknames for Hilsa?

Common
HilHi

Common questions about the name Hilsa

What does the name Hilsa mean?
Hilsa means "a type of fish" — a name rooted in Bengali tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.
How popular is the name Hilsa?
Hilsa is currently a distinctive and less common name as a baby name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Hilsa?
Hilsa originates from Bengali tradition. Bengali names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
Is Hilsa a common or rare name?
Hilsa is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.
Is Hilsa more of a girl or boy name?
Hilsa is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.