What does Nila mean and where does it come from?
Nila is derived from the Sanskrit word 'nīla', referring to a dark blue color, often associated with the night sky and water. In Indonesia, Nila means 'moon' and is sometimes used as a name reflecting beauty and serenity. Historically, the name has been used in various cultures, including Indian myt
Cultural significance
Nila has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in India-speaking communities, where it reflects values of dark blue.
Peak popularity
Reached #569 in 1935 — currently #1931 in the US.
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Related Reading
India-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Nila?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Nila?
Nila works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Nila Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Nila Rose
Floral · soft ending
Nila Claire
French influence · crisp
Nila Jane
Literary · strong
Nila Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Nila right now?
Falling — down 418 spots — currently #1931 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #1931 | 103 | ▼ down 418 · -28% births |
| 2022 | #1513 | 144 | ▲ up 343 · +33% births |
| 2021 | #1856 | 108 | ▼ down 76 · -2% births |
| 2020 | #1780 | 110 | ▼ down 2 · -6% births |
| 2015 | #1778 | 117 | ▲ up 1063 · +92% births |
| 2010 | #2841 | 61 | ▲ up 64 · +9% births |
| 2005 | #2905 | 56 | ▲ up 557 · +47% births |
| 2000 | #3462 | 38 | ▲ up 43 · +23% births |
| 1995 | #3505 | 31 | ▲ up 3379 · +158% births |
| 1990 | #6884 | 12 | ▼ down 2584 · -33% births |
| 1985 | #4300 | 18 | ▼ down 127 |
| 1980 | #4173 | 18 | ▼ down 640 · -5% births |
| 1975 | #3533 | 19 | ▼ down 200 |
| 1970 | #3333 | 19 | ▼ down 1076 · -32% births |
| 1965 | #2257 | 28 | — |
The story of Nila
Nila has been a beloved American name for over 134 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1890. With 6,539 total births recorded, Nila remains relatively uncommon. Once ranked #1331 in 1890, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #1931 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Nila in 1935:
Nila by decade
Nila peaked in the 1930s. See all 1930s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1890s | 59 | |
| 1900s | 96 | |
| 1910s | 347 | |
| 1920s | 713 | |
| 1930s | 944 | |
| 1940s | 854 | |
| 1950s | 833 | |
| 1960s | 377 | |
| 1970s | 200 | |
| 1980s | 174 | |
| 1990s | 219 | |
| 2000s | 554 | |
| 2010s ★ | 1,059 | |
| 2020s | 110 | |
💎With 6,539 total births, Nila is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Nila?
What names sound and feel like Nila?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Nila also consider these
How is Nila written in other languages?
Common questions about the name Nila
What does the name Nila mean?
Nila means "dark blue" — 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 Nila?
Nila is currently a distinctive and less common name as a girl name in the US and is becoming rarer and more distinctive, making it a unique choice that stands out.
What is the cultural origin of Nila?
Nila 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.
How do you pronounce the name Nila?
Nila is a two-syllable name pronounced N IY1 L AH0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Nila a common or rare name?
Nila is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.