Gender-Neutral Name · Latin Origin
Nova
Nova — a neutral name from the Latin tradition — is an uncommon, standout choice. Its meaning, "New, a star", anchors the name in something deeper than sound alone. If Neva is on your shortlist, Nova belongs in the same conversation.
Nova meaning, origin, and usage
Meaning: New, a star
Origin: Latin naming roots help connect Nova to related Latin baby names.
Pronunciation: Baby Name Studio pronounces Nova as N·O·V·A, with 4 letters and a gender-neutral usage profile.
Popularity: According to Baby Name Studio's 2026 tracker, Nova is an uncommon, standout choice in the Rare tier.
Nova variants, nicknames, middle names, and sibling names
- Variants and spelling ideas: Novaa, Novae, Novay, Nov.
- Nicknames: Nova works as its own nickname.
- Middle names: Pair Nova with a middle name that balances its short sound; start with the Nova middle name generator.
- Sibling names: Neva, Novah, Navy, Nevaeh, Nona — full picks on the sibling names for Nova guide for a cohesive sibset.
- Similar names: Looking for names that sound like Nova? Browse our names like Nova guide for phonetic-neighbor picks.
- Explore more: use the Baby Name Explorer, name search, AI name generator, and Baby Name Studio homepage.
Frequently asked about Nova
What does the name Nova mean?
Nova means "New, a star" and is of Latin origin.
What is the origin of Nova?
Nova originates in Latin naming tradition.
How do you pronounce Nova?
Nova has 4 letters and is most commonly stressed on the first syllable.
Is Nova a boy's or girl's name?
Nova is primarily used as a girl's name in US records.
How popular is Nova in 2026?
In our 2026 popularity tracker, Nova sits in the Rare tier — an uncommon, standout choice.
What names are similar to Nova?
Names that share Nova's sound and style include Neva, Novah, Navy, Nevaeh, Nona.
What middle names pair well with Nova?
Good middle-name fits for Nova pair an opposite syllable rhythm: if Nova is short, lean longer (e.g. classical or three-syllable middles); if Nova is longer, a one-syllable middle keeps the full name from feeling heavy.
What are good sibling names for Nova?
Sibling names that pair naturally with Nova share its rhythm without rhyming — Neva, Novah, Navy all sit comfortably alongside it on a shortlist.