Nova
Nova is a girl name of Latin origin meaning “New”, pronounced NOH-vuh. It ranked #46 in the United States in 2025, given to 4,657 babies, and peaked at #32 in 2021. Common nicknames: Nov, Vovi.
How popular is Nova 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 Nova mean, and where does it come from?
Nova comes from the Latin "novus," meaning "new." In astronomy, a nova is a star that suddenly increases dramatically in brightness before fading, a celestial image that gives the name a sense of wonder and transformation. Though it had scattered historical use, Nova surged into mainstream popularity only in the 2010s and 2020s, becoming one of the fastest-rising names for girls in the United States, aided by its sleek, modern sound and cosmic associations. It is often chosen alongside other celestial or nature-themed names like Luna and Stella.
How is Nova used around the world?
Nova is used in 1 languages worldwide, with 1+ international variants.
TypeFemale given name
Linguistic data: Wikidata (CC0). Variants and language usage may vary by region.
What are the nicknames for Nova?
Famous People Named Nova
- Nova Peris — Australian Olympic gold medalist and politician
- Nova Lanktree — Canadian entertainment broadcaster
- Nova — recurring superhero name used across Marvel Comics
Similar Names to Nova
If you like Nova, you might also consider these names with a similar feel.
Sibling Name Ideas for Nova
Looking for names that pair well with Nova? Here are some sibling name suggestions that share a similar style and feel.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the name Nova mean?
Nova is a girl name of Latin origin meaning "New." Nova comes from the Latin "novus," meaning "new." In astronomy, a nova is a star that suddenly increases dramatically in brightness before fading, a celestial image that gives the name a sense of wonder and transformation.
How do you pronounce Nova?
Nova is pronounced NOH-vuh. Common variations include Novah, Novia, Novalee.
Is Nova a girl name?
Yes, Nova is traditionally a girl name. Popular nicknames include Nov, Vovi.