What does Ima mean and where does it come from?
Ima (אִמָּה) is a Hebrew word meaning 'mother.' In contrast, the Japanese pronunciation can mean 'now' (今 or いま). As a given name, 'Ima' is more prominent in Hebrew-speaking cultures but can also appeal to those interested in its meaning in Japanese. The name embodies a strong familial connection an
Cultural significance
Ima has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Hebrew-speaking communities, where it reflects values of mother.
Peak popularity
Reached #436 in 1894 — currently #14101 in the US.
🌿
Related Reading
Hebrew-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Ima?
Ima works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Ima Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Ima Rose
Floral · soft ending
Ima Claire
French influence · crisp
Ima Jane
Literary · strong
Ima Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Ima right now?
Rising fast — up 1634 spots — currently #14101 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2020 | #13371 | 6 | ▲ up 1634 |
| 2010 | #15005 | 6 | ▼ down 1958 · -14% births |
| 2005 | #13047 | 7 | ▲ up 155 · +17% births |
| 2000 | #13202 | 6 | ▼ down 5735 · -25% births |
| 1980 | #7467 | 8 | ▲ up 1684 · +60% births |
| 1975 | #9151 | 5 | ▼ down 5871 · -67% births |
| 1965 | #3280 | 15 | ▲ up 97 · +7% births |
| 1960 | #3377 | 14 | ▼ down 1560 · -59% births |
| 1955 | #1817 | 34 | ▼ down 231 · -3% births |
| 1950 | #1586 | 35 | ▼ down 696 · -51% births |
| 1945 | #890 | 72 | ▼ down 329 · -53% births |
| 1940 | #561 | 153 | ▼ down 79 · -11% births |
| 1935 | #482 | 171 | ▼ down 34 · -25% births |
| 1930 | #448 | 228 | ▲ up 17 · +4% births |
| 1925 | #465 | 219 | — |
The story of Ima
Ima has been a beloved American name for over 138 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1886. With 6,798 total births recorded, Ima remains relatively uncommon. Once ranked #867 in 1890, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #13371 in 2020.
Names that peaked alongside Ima in 1894:
Ima by decade
Ima peaked in the 1890s. See all 1890s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 30 | |
| 1890s | 264 | |
| 1900s | 400 | |
| 1910s | 988 | |
| 1920s ★ | 1,939 | |
| 1930s | 1,816 | |
| 1940s | 827 | |
| 1950s | 302 | |
| 1960s | 114 | |
| 1970s | 42 | |
| 1980s | 30 | |
| 1990s | 7 | |
| 2000s | 13 | |
| 2010s | 20 | |
| 2020s | 6 | |
💎With 6,798 total births, Ima is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Ima?
Famous people named Ima
I(
Ima (historical figure)
Ima bore this name in the Biblical tradition, reflecting its deep roots in Hebrew scripture and culture.
👑
Celebrity Names
What celebrities named their babies in 2024
Explore →What names sound and feel like Ima?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Ima also consider these
How is Ima written in other languages?
Common questions about the name Ima
What does the name Ima mean?
Ima means "Mother" — a name rooted in Hebrew 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 Ima?
Ima is currently a distinctive and less common name as a girl name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Ima?
Ima originates from Hebrew tradition. Hebrew names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
Is Ima a common or rare name?
Ima is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.
Is Ima a classic or a modern name?
Ima has Hebrew roots that go back thousands of years, making it a genuine classic rather than a modern invention. Its staying power across generations reflects its fundamental appeal and the strength of its meaning.