Nani is a name of African origin, specifically from the Yoruba tribe of Nigeria and Benin. It means "mother" in this language. Traditionally, it is given to girls born on a Thursday or as an honorific title for elderly women. However, in some cultures and families, Nani may also be used as a boy's name.
The name Nani has been carried through generations and has become popular beyond its African roots. It can be found in various countries around the world, often passed down as a family name or chosen for its unique sound and meaning. Despite its popularity, it remains relatively rare compared to more common names, which contributes to its distinctiveness.
The history of Nani is deeply rooted in African culture and tradition, reflecting the importance of family and community within these societies. As a name that means "mother," it carries strong connotations of nurturing, love, and wisdom. While many people may associate the name with its use as an honorific title for elderly women, it can also represent strength, resilience, and respect across different ages.
Today, Nani continues to be given as both a first and middle name, often chosen for its unique sound and cultural significance. Whether used in traditional African communities or adopted by families around the world, this name carries with it a rich history and profound meaning that reflects the importance of family and community throughout generations.
Statistics on the given name Nani show a varied trend of popularity over time in the United States.
The earliest recorded birth with this name occurred in 1922, with just five newborns being named Nani that year. The number of babies named Nani fluctuated throughout the following decades, reaching a peak of ten births each in both 1958 and 1965 before declining again.
The decade of the 70s saw relatively consistent numbers, with eight births each year from 1974 to 1977. This was followed by another decline into the single digits until the late 80s, with a notable spike in 1991 when nine babies were named Nani.
The new millennium brought about a significant increase in the popularity of this name, starting from just six births in 2000 up to an all-time high of 37 births in 2019. This trend continued into recent years, with numbers remaining relatively high: there were 39 births in 2021 and 33 in 2023.
Overall, a total of 641 babies have been named Nani in the United States since records began until the latest available data for 2023. This data reflects a steady rise in popularity over time, indicating that more parents are choosing this name for their newborn daughters.