What does Carma mean and where does it come from?
The name Carma is a contemporary spelling variation of Karma, which has Sanskrit origins. It is particularly popular among Indian communities and in the United States as a unique name that embodies the concept of life's actions and their eventual outcomes. Noteworthy for its philosophical implicatio
Cultural significance
Carma has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in India-speaking communities, where it reflects values of song.
Peak popularity
Reached #782 in 1935 — currently #10257 in the US.
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Related Reading
India-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Carma?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Carma?
Carma works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Carma Leah
One syllable · timeless choice
Carma Quinn
One syllable · timeless choice
Carma Blair
One syllable · on the rise
Carma Ruth
One syllable · timeless choice
Carma Wren
One syllable · vintage charm
Carma Faith
One syllable · vintage charm
How popular is Carma right now?
Rising fast — up 1070 spots — currently #10257 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2025 | #10257 | 9 | ▲ up 1070 · +13% births |
| 2024 | #11327 | 8 | ▼ down 3609 · -43% births |
| 2023 | #7718 | 14 | ▲ up 3684 · +75% births |
| 2022 | #11402 | 8 | ▼ down 82 |
| 2021 | #11320 | 8 | ▼ down 5489 · -60% births |
| 2020 | #5831 | 20 | ▼ down 1348 · -35% births |
| 2015 | #4483 | 31 | ▼ down 457 · -16% births |
| 2010 | #4026 | 37 | ▼ down 561 · -14% births |
| 2005 | #3465 | 43 | ▲ up 8406 · +514% births |
| 2000 | #11871 | 7 | ▼ down 4983 · -42% births |
| 1990 | #6888 | 12 | ▼ down 1170 |
| 1985 | #5718 | 12 | ▼ down 1846 · -40% births |
| 1980 | #3872 | 20 | ▼ down 1632 · -46% births |
| 1975 | #2240 | 37 | ▼ down 517 · -30% births |
| 1970 | #1723 | 53 | — |
The story of Carma
Carma has been a beloved American name for over 127 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1897. With 4,119 total births recorded, Carma remains relatively uncommon. Once ranked #1868 in 1905, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #7718 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Carma in 1935:
Carma by decade
Carma peaked in the 1930s. See all 1930s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1890s | 5 | |
| 1900s | 31 | |
| 1910s | 178 | |
| 1920s | 423 | |
| 1930s | 612 | |
| 1940s | 567 | |
| 1950s ★ | 623 | |
| 1960s | 546 | |
| 1970s | 353 | |
| 1980s | 157 | |
| 1990s | 75 | |
| 2000s | 255 | |
| 2010s | 274 | |
| 2020s | 37 | |
💎With 4,119 total births, Carma is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Carma?
What names sound and feel like Carma?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Carma also consider these
Common questions about the name Carma
What does the name Carma mean?
Carma means "Song" — a name rooted in India 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 Carma?
Carma is currently a distinctive and less common name as a girl name in the US and is becoming rarer and more distinctive, making it a unique choice that stands out.
What is the cultural origin of Carma?
Carma originates from India tradition. India 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 Carma?
Carma is a two-syllable name pronounced KAH-rmah. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Carma a common or rare name?
Carma is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.