Nerva is a Roman origin name, derived from the Latin word 'nervus' meaning 'strong' or 'vigorous'. It was borne by Marcus Coelius Nerva, a member of the Roman equites during the late Republic period. The name Nerva was also used by Emperor Nerva (AD 30-98), who succeeded Domitian in 96 and ruled until his death in 98. He is known for adopting Trajan as his successor, marking the beginning of the Nerva-Antonine dynasty.