What does Nina mean and where does it come from?
Nina is a name with various origins and meanings. In Spanish, it translates to 'little girl' or 'young girl'. In Russian, it is often interpreted as 'dreamer'. The name has been used in various cultures and has been recorded since the Middle Ages. Its popularity surged in the 20th century. Noteworth
Cultural significance
Nina has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Spanish-speaking communities, where it reflects values of little girl.
Peak popularity
Reached #115 in 1887 — currently #338 in the US.
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Related Reading
Spanish-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Nina?
Nina works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Nina Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Nina Rose
Floral · soft ending
Nina Claire
French influence · crisp
Nina Jane
Literary · strong
Nina Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Nina right now?
Declining — down 26 spots — currently #338 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #338 | 919 | ▼ down 26 · -10% births |
| 2022 | #312 | 1,025 | ▲ up 12 · +2% births |
| 2021 | #324 | 1,003 | ▲ up 4 · +8% births |
| 2020 | #328 | 933 | ▼ down 29 · -13% births |
| 2015 | #299 | 1,077 | ▲ up 19 · +8% births |
| 2010 | #318 | 1,001 | ▼ down 66 · -22% births |
| 2005 | #252 | 1,287 | ▼ down 33 · -10% births |
| 2000 | #219 | 1,428 | ▲ up 60 · +45% births |
| 1995 | #279 | 988 | ▼ down 19 · -10% births |
| 1990 | #260 | 1,102 | ▼ down 44 · -8% births |
| 1985 | #216 | 1,198 | ▼ down 68 · -37% births |
| 1980 | #148 | 1,888 | ▲ up 164 · +160% births |
| 1975 | #312 | 726 | ▲ up 13 · -12% births |
| 1970 | #325 | 826 | ▼ down 60 · -22% births |
| 1965 | #265 | 1,061 | — |
The story of Nina
Nina has been a beloved American name for over 144 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1880. More than 129,096 babies have been named Nina since 1880. Once ranked #135 in 1880, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #338 in 2023. Nina is used for both genders: 100% female and 0% male.
Names that peaked alongside Nina in 1887:
Nina by decade
Nina peaked in the 1880s. See all 1880s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 2,098 | |
| 1890s | 3,386 | |
| 1900s | 3,743 | |
| 1910s | 8,697 | |
| 1920s | 11,351 | |
| 1930s | 9,702 | |
| 1940s | 9,518 | |
| 1950s | 12,814 | |
| 1960s | 10,921 | |
| 1970s | 7,285 | |
| 1980s ★ | 13,700 | |
| 1990s | 11,555 | |
| 2000s | 12,878 | |
| 2010s | 10,515 | |
| 2020s | 933 | |
What are good nicknames for Nina?
Famous people named Nina
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Nina (Spanish conquistador or explorer)
Nina bore this name during the Age of Exploration, spreading it across the Americas.
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Nina (Spanish saint)
Nina helped establish this name across the Spanish-speaking Catholic world.
N(
Nina (Flamenco artist)
Nina carried this name in the vibrant tradition of Spanish music and dance.
N(
Nina (Latin American historical figure)
Nina used this name across South and Central America as Spanish naming traditions spread.
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Celebrity Names
What celebrities named their babies in 2024
Explore →What names sound and feel like Nina?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Nina also consider these
Common questions about the name Nina
What does the name Nina mean?
Nina means "little girl" — a name rooted in Spanish 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 Nina?
Nina is currently ranked #338 in the United States 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 Nina?
Nina originates from Spanish tradition. Spanish 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 Nina?
Nina is a two-syllable name pronounced N IY1 N AH0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Nina more of a girl or boy name?
Nina is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.