Created by Shakespeare for a character in 'The Merchant of Venice' (1596). He possibly took it from the Greek word 'Nereis' meaning 'nymph, sea sprite' - ultimately from Nereus, the Greek sea god said to have fathered the Nereids.
Vibe
elegantwatery
How it ages.
A literary sea-nymph name straight from Shakespeare - elegant and rare, more storybook than trend.
The cultural moment.
Niche and literary, best known as the name Shakespeare gave a character in 'The Merchant of Venice' rather than from any popularity trend.