Nirmala
Meaningpure · Sanskrit
Nirmala is an Indian girl name meaning “pure”, 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?
- GenerationNirmala peaked in 1977, which makes it a Gen X name. The typical Nirmala you'd meet today is about 48 years old.
- HistoryNirmala first shows up in US birth records in 1977, the first year at least 5 babies got it. It has been in use for 48 years since.
US births per million girls, 1977–2025
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Popularity: U.S. Social Security Administration (babies with 5+ births per year).
About the name Nirmala
Nirmala is a girl name of Indian origin meaning “pure”. 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 girl names
- Girl name: Maya · illusion
- Girl name: Lyla · night
- Unisex name: Arya · noble
- Girl name: Kali · black
- Girl name: Serena · calm, serene
- Girl name: Mira · wonderful
- Girl name: Amber · amber resin
- Unisex name: Veda · knowledge
Questions about the name Nirmala
What does the name Nirmala mean?
Nirmala means “pure” and comes from Sanskrit. Other girl names with a similar meaning include Catalina (“possibly pure”), Katherine (“possibly pure”), Catherine (“possibly pure”) and Katalina (“pure”).
What is the origin of the name Nirmala?
Nirmala is Indian in origin, and its meaning traces back to Sanskrit. Other Indian names to consider are Maya (“illusion”), Lyla (“night”), Arya (“noble”) and Kali (“black”).
Is Nirmala a boy or girl name?
Nirmala is a girl name.
How popular is the name Nirmala?
Nirmala is rare: fewer than 5 US girls got it in 2025, and it was last given to 5 or more in 1988. It peaked at #8,444 in 1977, so it's a name with history that few kids share today.
What names are similar to Nirmala?
If you like Nirmala, you might also like Catalina, Katherine, Catherine and Katalina.
What should I know before naming my baby Nirmala?
Nirmala is an Indian girl name meaning “pure”, 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.