ਨਿਸ਼ਾਨ

Nishan

boyPersianSikh

Nishan is a Sikh boy name of Persian, via Punjabi origin, meaning “Sign, mark, emblem”.

MeaningSign, mark, emblem
GenderBoy
OriginPersian, via Punjabi
Written asਨਿਸ਼ਾਨ
Pronunciationnih-SHAHN
TraditionSikh
Used inIndia, Sri Lanka, Canada

Meaning and origin of Nishan

Nishan is a Persian word for a sign, mark or banner that entered Punjabi, Hindi and Urdu. For Sikhs it immediately calls to mind the Nishan Sahib, the saffron flag with the Khanda emblem that flies above every gurdwara. As a name it suggests someone who stands as a mark of faith or distinction. It is also used in Sri Lanka, where it has a separate Sinhala use.

Is Nishan a Sikh name?

Through the Nishan Sahib, the name has a strong Sikh resonance; families use it with Singh. It is also understood more generally in South Asia as 'sign' or 'symbol'.

How popular is Nishan?

Used in Sikh families and in Sri Lanka; uncommon elsewhere.

Gifts with the name Nishan

As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. We may earn a small commission from these links, at no extra cost to you.

Spellings and variants of Nishan

Nishaan

Names similar to Nishan

More Sikh boy names

Frequently asked questions

What does the name Nishan mean?

Nishan means 'Sign, mark, emblem'. It is of Persian, via Punjabi origin.

Is Nishan a Sikh name?

Through the Nishan Sahib, the name has a strong Sikh resonance; families use it with Singh. It is also understood more generally in South Asia as 'sign' or 'symbol'.

How do you pronounce Nishan?

Nishan is pronounced nih-SHAHN.

Is Nishan a boy or girl name?

Nishan is usually a boy name.

Updated October 2026. Spotted a mistake? Tell us.