What does Neeraj mean and where does it come from?
Neeraj (नीरज) is a popular name in India and predominantly used among Hindi-speaking communities. The name is derived from Sanskrit, where 'Nīra' means water and 'ja' means born of, suggesting a connection to water. The lotus is a significant symbol in Hinduism, representing purity and beauty emergi
Cultural significance
Neeraj has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in India-speaking communities, where it reflects values of hindi.
Peak popularity
Reached #2936 in 1974 — currently #1114 in the US.
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Related Reading
India-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Neeraj?
Neeraj works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Neeraj Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Neeraj Rose
Floral · soft ending
Neeraj Mae
Sweet · timeless
Neeraj Claire
French influence · crisp
Neeraj Jane
Literary · strong
Neeraj Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Neeraj right now?
Holding steady — currently #1114 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #1114 | 1,086 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 2022 | #1119 | 1,066 | ▲ up 5 · +3% births |
| 2021 | #1124 | 1,036 | ▲ up 11496 · +20620% births |
| 2010 | #12620 | 5 | ▼ down 4088 · -37% births |
| 2005 | #8532 | 8 | ▼ down 881 |
| 2000 | #7651 | 8 | ▼ down 371 · +14% births |
| 1995 | #7280 | 7 | ▲ up 1375 · +40% births |
| 1990 | #8655 | 5 | ▼ down 1602 |
| 1985 | #7053 | 5 | ▼ down 3832 · -64% births |
| 1980 | #3221 | 14 | ▲ up 2776 · +180% births |
| 1975 | #5997 | 5 | ▼ down 611 |
| 1970 | #5386 | 5 | — |
The story of Neeraj
Neeraj is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 1970. With 327 total births recorded, Neeraj remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #5386 in 1970 to #1114 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Neeraj in 1974:
Neeraj by decade
Neeraj peaked in the 1970s. See all 1970s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1970s | 72 | |
| 1980s ★ | 88 | |
| 1990s | 78 | |
| 2000s | 62 | |
| 2010s | 27 | |
💎Neeraj has only 327 total recorded births since 1970 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.
What are good nicknames for Neeraj?
Common
NeeNeerNeerieNeeryEraj
What names sound and feel like Neeraj?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Neeraj also consider these
How is Neeraj written in other languages?
Common questions about the name Neeraj
What does the name Neeraj mean?
Neeraj means "Hindi" — a name rooted in India 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 Neeraj?
Neeraj is currently a distinctive and less common name as a boy name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Neeraj?
Neeraj originates from India tradition. India names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
Is Neeraj a common or rare name?
Neeraj is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.
What are good nicknames for Neeraj?
Neeraj naturally lends itself to affectionate nicknames. Shortened versions based on the first syllable are most popular, and many parents also create unique pet names that feel personal to their family.