ਨਾਨਕ

Nanak

boyPunjabiSikh

Nanak is a Sikh boy name of Punjabi origin, meaning “Name of the first Sikh Guru”.

MeaningName of the first Sikh Guru
GenderBoy
OriginPunjabi
Written asਨਾਨਕ
PronunciationNAA-nuk
TraditionSikh
Used inIndia, Pakistan, United Kingdom, Canada

Meaning and origin of Nanak

Nanak is the name of Guru Nanak Dev (1469-1539), founder of Sikhism and the first of the ten Sikh Gurus. He was born in Talwandi, now Nankana Sahib in Pakistan, and is said to have been named after his elder sister Nanaki, who was born in their maternal grandparents' home (nanke). Guru Nanak used 'Nanak' as his signature in his hymns, as did the Gurus who followed him.

Is Nanak a Sikh name?

For Sikhs Nanak is the most revered of names, and many families prefer to use it within compounds such as Nanakpreet or Gurnanak rather than alone, out of respect.

How popular is Nanak?

Used by Sikh families, though it is less common on its own than in compound names.

Gifts with the name Nanak

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Spellings and variants of Nanak

NanakiGurnanak

Names similar to Nanak

More Sikh boy names

Frequently asked questions

What does the name Nanak mean?

Nanak means 'Name of the first Sikh Guru'. It is of Punjabi origin.

Is Nanak a Sikh name?

For Sikhs Nanak is the most revered of names, and many families prefer to use it within compounds such as Nanakpreet or Gurnanak rather than alone, out of respect.

How do you pronounce Nanak?

Nanak is pronounced NAA-nuk.

Is Nanak a boy or girl name?

Nanak is usually a boy name.

Updated October 2026. Spotted a mistake? Tell us.