Nova
Nova first appears in US records in 1885. It peaked in 2022, when 5,927 girls were given the name; in 2025 there were 4,657.
Source: US Social Security Administration.
Is Nova popular?
Rising Nova has climbed over the past decade, given to more girls now than ten years ago.
| 2020s | 31,518 | |
|---|---|---|
| 2010s | 18,057 | |
| 2000s | 1,221 | |
| 1990s | 289 | |
| 1980s | 360 | |
| 1970s | 589 | |
| 1960s | 402 | |
| 1950s | 283 | |
| 1940s | 369 | |
| 1930s | 657 | |
| 1920s | 891 | |
| 1910s | 629 | |
| 1900s | 279 | |
| 1890s | 187 | |
| 1880s | 52 |
Counts from US Social Security Administration data, 1880–2025.
What does Nova mean?
From Latin 'nova', the feminine of 'novus' meaning 'new'. In astronomy a nova is a star that suddenly brightens, which reinforces its celestial, star-related feel.
Variants & spellings
- Novah
Names like Nova
latin names with a similar feel and popularity.
Names that pair well with Nova
Popular latin names for a sibling or a middle name.
Compare Nova
Explore related names
Frequently asked questions
What does the name Nova mean?
Nova means new. From Latin 'nova', the feminine of 'novus' meaning 'new'. In astronomy a nova is a star that suddenly brightens, which reinforces its celestial, star-related feel.
What is the origin of the name Nova?
Nova is of latin origin.
How do you pronounce Nova?
Nova is pronounced “NOH-vah.”
Is Nova a boy or a girl name?
Nova is most commonly used as a girl name.
Is Nova a popular name right now?
Nova has climbed over the past decade, given to more girls now than ten years ago.
How popular is the name Nova?
In 2025, Nova ranked #46 among girls’ names in the United States, according to U.S. Social Security Administration data.
When was the name Nova most popular?
Nova was most popular in 2022, when about 5,927 US babies were given the name that year, according to US Social Security Administration records.
What names are similar to Nova?
Names similar to Nova include Luna, Aurora, Stella, Vera.
What names go well with Nova?
latin names that pair well with Nova include Mark, Amanda, Emily, Olivia, Ava.