Neeraj Boy
Name Meaning & Origin Pronunciation: NEE-raj /ˈniːrədʒ/
Origin: Sanskrit; Hindi
Meaning: Sanskrit: 'one who is precious'; Hindi: 'a jewel'
Historical & Cultural Background
The name Neeraj has its roots in the ancient Sanskrit language, where it is derived from the words 'nīra' meaning 'water' and 'ja' meaning 'born of' or 'produced by.' Thus, the literal translation of Neeraj can be understood as 'born of water' or 'lotus,' as the lotus flower is often associated with water in Indian culture. The name has been used in various forms across different Indian languages, reflecting its deep cultural significance in the subcontinent.
Historically, the lotus has been a symbol of purity and beauty in Indian philosophy and spirituality, often associated with deities such as Lakshmi and Saraswati. The use of Neeraj as a name can be traced back to ancient texts and scriptures, where the lotus is frequently mentioned.
In the context of Hindu mythology, the lotus is considered a sacred flower, representing divine beauty and spiritual awakening. The name has been embraced in various literary works and poetry throughout the centuries, further solidifying its cultural resonance.
In addition to its spiritual and aesthetic connotations, Neeraj has been borne by notable figures in Indian history and literature, contributing to its enduring legacy. The name has appeared in classical poetry and modern literature, often symbolizing grace, beauty, and the connection to nature.
Its association with water and the lotus also evokes themes of renewal and enlightenment, making it a meaningful choice in various cultural contexts. Overall, Neeraj embodies a rich tapestry of linguistic roots and cultural significance that has persisted through the ages.
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U.S. Historical Usage
The name Neeraj was first seen in the United States in 1970. Neeraj has ranked as high as #1101 nationally, which occurred in 1980, and has been most popular in California. In the past 5 years the name Neeraj has been trending down compared to the previous 5 years.
Popularity Over Time (National)
Top States for Neeraj (2008)
| State | Births | Share |
|---|---|---|
| CA | 5 |
Popularity Over Time (National) — Table
| Year | Births |
|---|---|
| 1970 | 5 |
| 1971 | 5 |
| 1973 | 11 |
| 1974 | 13 |
| 1975 | 5 |
| 1976 | 8 |
| 1977 | 12 |
| 1978 | 6 |
| 1979 | 7 |
| 1980 | 14 |
| 1981 | 10 |
| 1982 | 7 |
| 1983 | 12 |
| 1984 | 9 |
| 1985 | 5 |
| 1986 | 6 |
| 1987 | 7 |
| 1988 | 10 |
| 1989 | 8 |
| 1990 | 5 |
| 1991 | 7 |
| 1992 | 5 |
| 1993 | 8 |
| 1994 | 9 |
| 1995 | 7 |
| 1996 | 9 |
| 1997 | 9 |
| 1998 | 6 |
| 1999 | 13 |
| 2000 | 8 |
| 2001 | 11 |
| 2002 | 6 |
| 2003 | 7 |
| 2005 | 8 |
| 2007 | 5 |
| 2008 | 9 |
| 2009 | 8 |
| 2010 | 5 |
| 2011 | 6 |
| 2012 | 5 |
| 2013 | 5 |
| 2017 | 6 |