Neymar is a name of Brazilian origin, derived from the Portuguese word "nem" which means "neither". It was initially used as a nickname for people who were not like others or who didn't fit into established categories. Over time, Neymar has become a popular first name in Brazil and other parts of South America.
The name gained international recognition when Brazilian footballer Neymar da Silva Santos Júnior, commonly known as Neymar, rose to prominence. Born on February 5, 1992, in Mogi das Cruzes, São Paulo, Brazil, he began his professional career at the age of 17 with Santos FC. His exceptional skills and goalscoring ability earned him a transfer to Barcelona in 2013, where he played alongside Lionel Messi and Luis Suárez in the famous MSN trio.
Neymar's success continued when he moved to Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) in 2017 for a world record fee. He has since become one of the most decorated footballers in history, winning numerous titles including two Olympic gold medals with the Brazil national team. Despite his achievements and fame, Neymar remains dedicated to his family and friends, often crediting them for his success.
While Neymar is primarily known as a footballer, the name itself has no specific connection to sports or success. Instead, it carries a unique meaning that makes it stand out from other names. As a result, many parents choose this name for their children regardless of its association with the famous footballer, hoping to give them a distinctive identity. Neymar is also considered unisex, though it's more commonly used for males due to its popularity in sports circles.
In conclusion, Neymar is an intriguing name with Brazilian roots that has gained worldwide recognition thanks to the achievements of the renowned footballer bearing this moniker. Its unique meaning and distinct sound make it a popular choice for parents seeking something different for their children.
The popularity of the name Neymar peaked in 2014 with 499 births that year, but has been declining steadily since then. From a high of 499 births in 2014, it fell to just 87 births in 2023, a decrease of approximately 82%. The total number of births named Neymar from 2010 to 2023 is 2782.