Nilam is of Sanskrit origin and means 'lotus'. It is often associated with beauty, grace, and purity. The lotus flower grows in muddy waters and rises above the surface to bloom with remarkable beauty, symbolizing enlightenment and detachment from worldly attachments. In Hindu mythology, it is also believed that the goddess Lakshmi emerged from a lotus blooming in the center of the universe, further attributing divine qualities to this name. Nilam is typically used as a female given name, although it can be used for males as well. It is not particularly common outside of South Asia but can be found in various cultures that have been influenced by Hindu and Buddhist traditions.
"The name Nilam has seen its most popular years between 1980 and 1981 with a total of 18 births, but it remains relatively uncommon overall with only 76 recorded births from 1974 to 1996."