Anurag
Meaningaffection, devotion · Sanskrit
Anurag is an Indian boy name meaning “affection, devotion”, with Sanskrit roots. Sanskrit names are rich in meaning, often drawn from nature, virtues or Hindu tradition. A meaning like this gives a child something to grow into, and a good story to tell when someone asks about their name. It sounds flowing and melodic, it's simple to spell and say, and it pairs well with a short middle name.
Did you know?
- GenerationAnurag peaked in 1974, which makes it a Gen X name. The typical Anurag you'd meet today is about 51 years old.
- HistoryAnurag first shows up in US birth records in 1972, the first year at least 5 babies got it. It has been in use for 53 years since.
US births per million boys, 1972–2025
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Popularity: U.S. Social Security Administration (babies with 5+ births per year).
About the name Anurag
Anurag is a boy name of Indian origin meaning “affection, devotion”. With 3 syllables it has a flowing, lyrical sound, so a short middle name balances it nicely. It hit its peak in the 1970s, so it feels familiar without being trendy. It's rarely heard today, so it stands out while still being a real, established name.
Origin:Indian names
More Indian boy names
- Unisex name: Makai · toward the sea
- Boy name: Arjun · bright, shining
- Boy name: Zain · beauty, grace
- Unisex name: Idris · possibly studious
- Boy name: Aarav · peaceful, calm
- Unisex name: Rohan · ascending
- Unisex name: Aryan · noble
- Boy name: Ishaan · lord, ruler
Questions about the name Anurag
What does the name Anurag mean?
Anurag means “affection, devotion” and comes from Sanskrit.
What is the origin of the name Anurag?
Anurag is Indian in origin, and its meaning traces back to Sanskrit. Other Indian names to consider are Makai (“toward the sea”), Arjun (“bright, shining”), Zain (“beauty, grace”) and Idris (“possibly studious”).
Is Anurag a boy or girl name?
Anurag is a boy name.
How popular is the name Anurag?
Anurag is rare: fewer than 5 US boys got it in 2025, and it was last given to 5 or more in 2017. It peaked at #3,558 in 1974, so it's a name with history that few kids share today.
What should I know before naming my baby Anurag?
Anurag is an Indian boy name meaning “affection, devotion”, with Sanskrit roots. Sanskrit names are rich in meaning, often drawn from nature, virtues or Hindu tradition. A meaning like this gives a child something to grow into, and a good story to tell when someone asks about their name. It sounds flowing and melodic, it's simple to spell and say, and it pairs well with a short middle name. Say it out loud with your last name and any middle names you're considering, and check the initials it makes.