What does Adama mean and where does it come from?
Adama is a name that has roots in both Hebrew and various African cultures, particularly among the Mandinka and other West African groups. In Hebrew, it means 'earth,' akin to the biblical Adam, while in some African contexts, it means 'firstborn'. This name is notable for its cultural significance
Cultural significance
Adama has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Africa-speaking communities, where it reflects values of earth.
Peak popularity
Reached #5078 in 2001 — currently #5930 in the US.
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Related Reading
Africa-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Adama?
Adama works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Adama Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Adama Rose
Floral · soft ending
Adama Mae
Sweet · timeless
Adama Claire
French influence · crisp
Adama Jane
Literary · strong
Adama Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Adama right now?
Falling — down 294 spots — currently #5930 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #5930 | 15 | ▼ down 294 · -6% births |
| 2022 | #5636 | 16 | ▲ up 2534 · +78% births |
| 2021 | #8170 | 9 | ▼ down 3001 · -62% births |
| 2020 | #5169 | 24 | ▲ up 180 · -4% births |
| 2015 | #5349 | 25 | ▲ up 2271 · +56% births |
| 2010 | #7620 | 16 | ▼ down 1740 · -24% births |
| 2005 | #5880 | 21 | ▲ up 1875 · +62% births |
| 2000 | #7755 | 13 | ▲ up 643 · +30% births |
| 1995 | #8398 | 10 | ▲ up 5396 · +100% births |
| 1990 | #13794 | 5 | ▼ down 3927 · -17% births |
| 1980 | #9867 | 6 | ▼ down 3422 · -33% births |
| 1975 | #6445 | 9 | — |
The story of Adama
Adama is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 1973. With 933 total births recorded, Adama remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #6445 in 1975 to #5930 in 2023. Adama is used for both genders: 60% female and 40% male.
Names that peaked alongside Adama in 2001:
Adama by decade
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1970s | 46 | |
| 1980s | 77 | |
| 1990s | 123 | |
| 2000s | 306 | |
| 2010s ★ | 341 | |
| 2020s | 40 | |
💎Adama has only 933 total recorded births since 1973 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.
What are good nicknames for Adama?
What names sound and feel like Adama?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Adama also consider these
Common questions about the name Adama
What does the name Adama mean?
Adama means "earth" — a name rooted in Africa tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.
How popular is the name Adama?
Adama is currently a distinctive and less common name as a baby name in the US and is rapidly gaining popularity — searches for Adama have increased significantly in recent years.
What is the cultural origin of Adama?
Adama originates from Africa tradition. Africa names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
How do you pronounce the name Adama?
Adama is a four-syllable name pronounced AE1 D EY2 EH2 M EY1. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
What sibling names go well with Adama?
Adama pairs beautifully with sibling names that share a similar Africa heritage or complement its melodic and flowing sound. Names with a similar vibe create a cohesive sibling set without matching too closely.