Nima: a unisex name of Old Persian origin meaning "This male name derives from the Persian (Fārsi) “nimā,” meaning “arch, bow".It derives from the Old Persian word Nimā (nyi ma).
Nima is a both name that means "This male name derives from the Persian (Fārsi) “nimā,” meaning “arch, bow". Its Old Persian origins reflect deep cultural values and traditions that have been passed down through generations. Parents choosing this name often appreciate its profound significance and timeless appeal.
Quick Facts About Nima
Quick facts about Nima
Origin
Old Persian
Gender
Unisex
Popularity
Moderately popular
Researched by Name Doctor Linguistics Team
Our names are verified by professional linguists with expertise in etymology and cultural naming traditions.
Last reviewed: November 2025
Meaning
This male name derives from the Persian (Fārsi) “nimā,” meaning “arch, bow.” The modern and poetic meaning is “just, someone who treats others right and fair.” The name is Iranian for (male) and Tibetan for (male and female). The original meaning in Tibetan (Tabari) is “sun.”
Etymology & Details
Name Root
Nimā (nyi ma)
Other Scripts
Persian (Fārsi) (کمان)
How to Pronounce Nima
Nima is pronounced /ˈniːmə/
Step-by-step pronunciation guide:
Break it into syllables: Nim-a
Say it like: "NEEMOOH"
Practice saying it naturally a few times
✓Pronunciation verified by linguistic sources
Usage & Popularity
Nima is predominantly used in iranian speaking communities, where it maintains strong cultural connections and traditional significance.
iranian
Frequently Asked Questions About Nima
What does the name Nima mean?
Nima means "This male name derives from the Persian (Fārsi) “nimā,” meaning “arch, bow.” The modern and poetic meaning is “just, someone who treats others right and fair.” The name is Iranian for (male) and Tibetan for (male and female). The original meaning in Tibetan (Tabari) is “sun.”". The name comes from Nimā (nyi ma). In its original form, the name derives from Nimā (کمان). This old persian name has been passed down through generations, carrying its meaning across different cultures and time periods. Parents who choose Nima for children of any gender often connect with the name's meaning of "This male name derives from the Persian (Fārsi) “nimā,” meaning “arch, bow.” The modern and poetic meaning is “just, someone who treats others right and fair.” The name is Iranian for (male) and Tibetan for (male and female). The original meaning in Tibetan (Tabari) is “sun.”" as a quality they hope to see in their child. While not the most common choice, Nima's meaningful roots have given it staying power among parents looking for a name with substance.
What is the origin of the name Nima?
Nima is a old persian name. The name traces back to Nimā (nyi ma). The original form Nimā (کمان) shows the name's roots in its native language. In its native script, Nima is written as Persian (Fārsi) (کمان). The name remains closely tied to iranian naming traditions while occasionally appearing in other cultures. The old persian meaning "This male name derives from the Persian (Fārsi) “nimā,” meaning “arch, bow.” The modern and poetic meaning is “just, someone who treats others right and fair.” The name is Iranian for (male) and Tibetan for (male and female). The original meaning in Tibetan (Tabari) is “sun.”" reflects values important in the culture where this name first appeared.
Is Nima a boy or girl name?
Nima is a unisex name, given to both boys and girls. Unisex names have grown more popular since the 1990s, with parents choosing them for flexibility and modern appeal. Nima works equally well for any child, letting the person's identity shape how the name feels rather than the other way around. In old persian tradition, Nima has historically been given to children of either gender. The meaning "This male name derives from the Persian (Fārsi) “nimā,” meaning “arch, bow.” The modern and poetic meaning is “just, someone who treats others right and fair.” The name is Iranian for (male) and Tibetan for (male and female). The original meaning in Tibetan (Tabari) is “sun.”" carries well for any child, giving the name lasting appeal.
How do you pronounce Nima?
Nima is pronounced "/ˈniːmə/". This pronunciation follows pe language patterns. In its original script, the name appears as Persian (Fārsi) (کمان), which helps explain how native speakers pronounce it. As a single-syllable name, Nima is quick to say and easy to call out. If you're unfamiliar with old persian names, listening to a native speaker say Nima can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis. The name's root Nimā (nyi ma) influences how Nima sounds in its original language.
How popular is the name Nima?
Nima is somewhat common, familiar to most people. With moderate popularity, Nima offers familiarity without being everywhere. It's the kind of name people recognize but don't hear every day. Nima's popularity may vary between old persian communities and the broader population, where naming trends differ. The name's meaning of "This male name derives from the Persian (Fārsi) “nimā,” meaning “arch, bow.” The modern and poetic meaning is “just, someone who treats others right and fair.” The name is Iranian for (male) and Tibetan for (male and female). The original meaning in Tibetan (Tabari) is “sun.”" likely influences its appeal, as parents often choose names that express values or hopes for their children. Among unisex names, Nima holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
Where is the name Nima commonly used?
Nima is used primarily in iranian naming traditions. Though old persian in origin, Nima found a home in other cultures where it resonated with local naming preferences. The meaning "This male name derives from the Persian (Fārsi) “nimā,” meaning “arch, bow.” The modern and poetic meaning is “just, someone who treats others right and fair.” The name is Iranian for (male) and Tibetan for (male and female). The original meaning in Tibetan (Tabari) is “sun.”" carries universal appeal, helping explain why different cultures adopted Nima into their naming traditions. A child named Nima will likely find their name recognized in multiple countries, which can be an advantage for families with international connections or who value global accessibility. Across these cultures, Nima is given to children of any gender, maintaining consistent gender association.
Sources: Etymology verified through linguistic research including Oxford Dictionary of First Names, Behind the Name, and academic etymology databases.