All about the name

Nelly

Female

« Nelly is a French given name, derived from "neller," meaning "little nut tree," originally reserved for girls born under the Virgo zodiac sign. Popular in France since the Middle Ages, Nelly can also serve as a shortened form of Napoleon. »

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Meaning, origin, history

Nelly is a name of French origin, derived from the word "neller," which means "little nut tree." The name was originally given to girls born under the sign of the Virgo zodiac constellation, as the nut tree is associated with this astrological sign. Nelly has been used as a given name since the Middle Ages and was particularly popular in France during the 19th century. Today, Nelly is still widely recognized as a feminine given name, although it can also be used as a shortened form of the masculine name Napoleon. Despite its origins, Nelly does not have any specific associated traits or personality characteristics beyond those associated with the Virgo zodiac sign. Instead, people named Nelly are simply known by their unique and charming name.

In numbers

Popularity of the name Nelly since 1880

Total births
7,449
Total since 1880
Peak year
2007
208 births
in 2023
142
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
+24%
vs previous 5 years