Nala
Nala is a girl name of African origin meaning “Gift, successful”, pronounced NAH-lah. It ranked #856 in the United States in 2025, given to 317 babies, and peaked at #679 in 2019. Common nicknames: Nal, Lala.
How popular is Nala in the United States?
Data: U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA). Based on all Social Security card applications for births in the United States.
What does Nala mean, and where does it come from?
Nala is usually given a Swahili reading of gift or queen, though neither is straightforward in the language; a clearer line runs to Sanskrit, where Nala is a hero of the Mahabharata, and to Zulu, where it can mean plenty. Almost everyone meets it through The Lion King, whose 1994 film gave the name to Simba's friend. American records hold it from 1979, but the climb is modern: it entered the top thousand in 2014, after the stage musical and before the remake.
Variations & Nicknames
Variations
Nicknames
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Frequently Asked Questions
What does the name Nala mean?
Nala is a girl name of African origin meaning "Gift, successful." Nala is usually given a Swahili reading of gift or queen, though neither is straightforward in the language; a clearer line runs to Sanskrit, where Nala is a hero of the Mahabharata, and to Zulu, where it can mean plenty. Almost everyone meets it through The Lion King, whose 1994 film gave the name to Simba's friend.
How do you pronounce Nala?
Nala is pronounced NAH-lah. Common variations include Nalah, Nyla, Nala.
Is Nala a girl name?
Yes, Nala is traditionally a girl name. Popular nicknames include Nal, Lala.