What does Fama mean and where does it come from?
Fama is a name with roots in Senegal, deriving from the Wolof language where it signifies good speaking or reputation. The name is particularly common in Islamic cultures, having associations with fame and renown in Arabic. Fama may symbolize the hope that the bearer will have a good name and be wel
Cultural significance
Fama has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Senegal-speaking communities, where it reflects values of to speak well of.
Peak popularity
Reached #3887 in 1916 — currently #16088 in the US.
🌿
Related Reading
Senegal-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Fama?
Fama works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Fama Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Fama Rose
Floral · soft ending
Fama Claire
French influence · crisp
Fama Jane
Literary · strong
Fama Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Fama right now?
Falling — down 3468 spots — currently #16088 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2022 | #16088 | 5 | ▼ down 3468 · -29% births |
| 2021 | #12620 | 7 | ▼ down 3679 · -36% births |
| 2020 | #8941 | 11 | ▼ down 3987 · +120% births |
| 1930 | #4954 | 5 | ▼ down 655 · -29% births |
| 1925 | #4299 | 7 | ▲ up 1119 · +40% births |
| 1920 | #5418 | 5 | — |
The story of Fama
Fama entered American naming records in 1916 and has been in use for over 108 years. With 80 total births recorded, Fama remains relatively uncommon. Once ranked #5418 in 1920, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #16088 in 2022.
Names that peaked alongside Fama in 1916:
Fama by decade
Fama peaked in the 1910s. See all 1910s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1910s ★ | 20 | |
| 1920s | 18 | |
| 1930s | 5 | |
| 2000s | 18 | |
| 2010s | 8 | |
| 2020s | 11 | |
💎Fama has only 80 total recorded births since 1916 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.
What are good nicknames for Fama?
What names sound and feel like Fama?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Fama also consider these
Common questions about the name Fama
What does the name Fama mean?
Fama means "to speak well of" — a name rooted in Senegal 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 Fama?
Fama 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 Fama?
Fama originates from Senegal tradition. Senegal 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 Fama?
Fama is a two-syllable name pronounced F AA1 M AH0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Fama a common or rare name?
Fama is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.