Girl Name · Greek Origin
Nelly
Last reviewed: June 2026
Considering Nelly? It is a girl name whose meaning is "Shining one", rooted in Greek naming tradition, and ranks in our Rare popularity tier. Phonetically it shares territory with Neely, but stands on its own.
Names like Nelly
- Neely — meaning, origin and popularity
- Nelle — meaning, origin and popularity
- Nella — meaning, origin and popularity
- Nellie — meaning, origin and popularity
- Nell — meaning, origin and popularity
- Neill — meaning, origin and popularity
- Nello — meaning, origin and popularity
- Nelia — meaning, origin and popularity
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Frequently asked about Nelly
What does the name Nelly mean?
Nelly means "Shining one" and is of Greek origin.
What is the origin of Nelly?
Nelly originates in Greek naming tradition. Names of Greek origin often share recognizable sounds and cultural roots that shape how the name reads today.
How do you pronounce Nelly?
Nelly has 5 letters and is most commonly stressed on the first syllable. Tap the pronunciation player on this page to hear it spoken aloud.
Is Nelly a boy's or girl's name?
Nelly is primarily used as a girl's name in US records, though usage can vary by region and era.
How popular is Nelly in 2026?
In our 2026 popularity tracker, Nelly sits in the Rare tier — an uncommon, standout choice.
What names are similar to Nelly?
Names that share Nelly's sound and style include Neely, Nelle, Nella, Nellie, Nell. Open the "Names like Nelly" rail on this page for the full list.