Meaning: New; from Latin nova (new, feminine of novus); in astronomy, a star that undergoes a sudden brighteningHigh
In 30 seconds: A Latin word name meaning 'new,' also the astronomical term for a star that suddenly brightens. While Nova ranks much higher for girls, it appears in boys' data as a gender-neutral celestial name.
MeaningNew; from Latin nova (new, feminine of novus); in astronomy, a star that undergoes a sudden brightening
U.S. rank (2024)#1177 ↘ Falling
2024 U.S. births176 boys (0.01% of U.S. boys)
Peak year2020
Total births (all-time)≈ 3,077
Popularity in the U.S. · SSA data
U.S. births per year (Social Security Administration, 1880–present). Pink marker = peak year.
History & Origin
Nova is from Latin nova (new, feminine of novus). In astronomy it refers to a white dwarf that explosively brightens. As a given name it has grown dramatically for girls from the 2010s and appears in boys' data as well.
Nova ranked #1177 for boys in 2024.
Did you know? In astronomy, a nova is a thermonuclear explosion on the surface of a white dwarf star — a star that suddenly increases in brightness by thousands of times before fading. The word comes from the Latin for 'new star,' since ancient astronomers thought a new star had appeared.
Overall data confidence 94%
U.S. Social Security Administration — popularity data
Variations
Novah
Nicknames
Nov
Famous Bearers
Famous bearers coming soon.
If you like Nova…
Neo— short Latin/Greek name meaning new, the exact synonym of Nova
Cosmo— Latin cosmic name with the same celestial, starry quality
Orion— constellation name with the same astronomical tradition
Aster— Greek name for star sharing the same celestial register
Leo— constellation name with the same short Latin celestial feel
Frequently Asked
What does the name Nova mean?
Nova means 'new' from Latin nova. In astronomy, a nova is a star that suddenly brightens dramatically due to a thermonuclear explosion.
How do you pronounce Nova?
It's said NOH-vuh — two syllables, stress on the first.
Is Nova a boy or girl name?
Nova is primarily a girls' name but appears in boys' data.
