Nova: Meaning, origin and popularity
Pronounced NOH-vuh · 2 syllables
Nova means “new; a bright new star”, from Latin.
From Latin nova (“new”).
- Meaning
- new; a bright new star
- Origin
- Latin
- Pronunciation
- NOH-vuh
- US rank (2025)
- #46
- US babies a year
- about 5,524 (2021–2025)
- Peak
- around 2020
- Style
- Rising, Nature
How popular is Nova?
Nova was the #46 name in the US in 2025, given to 4,806 babies. It’s rising: up 527% on 2011–2015. It peaked around 2020.
Most popular in Mississippi (#9).
Around the world
| Country | Rank |
|---|---|
| United States | #46 |
| England & Wales | #144 |
| Scotland | #134 |
| Northern Ireland | #228 |
| Ireland | #183 |
| France | #811 |
| Norway | #118 |
| Canada | #98 |
| Australia | #209 |
How old are people named Nova?
Half of US adults named Nova are older than 43; most are between 18 and 83. (Estimated from US births by year and life tables.)
Names like Nova
Chosen by the same families or with a similar style and era.
On these lists
- The most popular girl names in the US
- Rising girl names
- Nature girl names
- Latin girl names
- Short baby names (4 letters or fewer)
Questions about Nova
What does the name Nova mean?
Nova means “new; a bright new star”. It comes from Latin.
How do you pronounce Nova?
Nova is pronounced NOH-vuh.
How popular is the name Nova?
Nova was the #46 name in the US in 2025, given to 4,806 babies. It’s rising: up 527% on 2011–2015. It peaked around 2020.
How old are people named Nova?
Half of US adults named Nova are older than 43. Most are between 18 and 83.