Uma is a name of Indian origin, derived from the Sanskrit word "Uma," which means "light" or "radiance." In Hindu mythology, Uma is known as the consort of Lord Shiva, one of the major deities in Hinduism. She is often depicted as a beautiful and powerful goddess, symbolizing fertility and prosperity.
The name Uma has been popular among Indians for centuries and has gained international recognition in recent years due to its uniqueness and beauty. It is considered a unisex name, although it is more commonly given to girls.Uma's popularity can also be attributed to the influence of Bollywood movies and Indian culture on global audiences. Some famous individuals named Uma include Uma Thurman, an American actress known for her roles in films like "Pulp Fiction" and "Kill Bill," and Uma Maheswari Devi, a renowned Carnatic vocalist from India.
Despite its popularity, the name Uma remains relatively uncommon outside of India, making it a distinctive choice for parents seeking a unique and meaningful name for their child. Its association with light and radiance also makes it an appealing option for those looking for a name that carries positive connotations and symbolism. Overall, Uma is a beautiful and culturally significant name with a rich history and meaning behind it.
Between 1961 and 2023, the name Uma has been given to a total of 1782 babies in the United States. The popularity of this name has varied over time, with periods of higher usage followed by periods of lower usage.
In the early years recorded (1961-1972), Uma was not very popular, with fewer than 9 births per year on average. However, starting from the late 1970s, there was a noticeable increase in its popularity, reaching double-digit numbers annually.
The peak of Uma's popularity occurred between 1995 and 2006, when it became increasingly common. In fact, during this period, the number of births with the name Uma more than quadrupled from 18 births in 1995 to a peak of 81 births in 2006.
After reaching its zenith in 2006, the popularity of the name Uma started to decline gradually over the next decade. However, since around 2014, there has been renewed interest in this name, with numbers consistently ranging between 57 and 78 births per year up until 2023.
Despite fluctuations in its popularity over time, the name Uma continues to be chosen for a significant number of newborns each year in the United States.