US Popularity Rank: 1621

Origin: Swahili

Meaning: Successful; Queen; Lion; Stem, hollow reed; Drink of water; Honeybee

Nala is a feminine name originating from many African cultures. In Swahili, this name means “queen,” “lion,” and “successful”. Nala is most notably the name of Simbas's lifelong friend—a spirited heroine who eventually becomes queen of the pride in The Lion King. She is a determined and playful character who represents a breath of fresh air in the films. On the flip side, Nala is also a masculine name that appears in the Hindi language meaning “stem” or “hollow reed”. But the diversity of this name doesn’t stop there! The variant Nahla, which is of Arabic origin, means "drink of water" or “honeybee.” No matter where your definition allegiances lie, this name is multi-faceted just like the gems in your little queen’s crown.