The name Niven is of Scottish origin and has a rich history. It is derived from the Scottish Gaelic name "Naoimh," which means "holy." The name was originally used as a female name, but it has since become more popular as a male name.
The name Niven first appeared in Scotland during the Middle Ages and was often given to children in honor of Saint Ninian, an early Christian missionary who is said to have brought Christianity to Scotland. The name was also associated with the Clan MacNiven, which originated from Argyllshire in western Scotland.
Over time, the name Niven has become more popular around the world. It has been carried by notable figures such as British actor David Niven and Scottish musician Stuart Niven. Today, it is considered a unisex name that carries with it a strong sense of history and tradition. Despite its origins, the name Niven is versatile and can suit many different personalities and backgrounds.
Based on the statistics provided, the name Niven has seen a varying number of births in the United States over the past decade. In 2007, there were 6 babies named Niven, followed by a decrease to 5 births in 2010. The next two years saw an increase, with 7 babies named Niven born in 2012 and another 6 in 2014. Overall, from 2007 to 2014, there were a total of 24 babies named Niven born in the United States. While not one of the most popular names during this period, it is clear that the name Niven has maintained a steady presence among newborns over these years.