“Jama is a female name found in various African cultures, including Somali and Swahili”
African origin · Unisex name
♂ 6% boys♀ 94% girls
#1893US 2023
307Births / yr
→Stable
1.6kAll-time births
📅 Since 191800
How to pronounce Jama
JAM·uh
/ˈdʒæm.ə/ · stress on JAM · 2 syllables
“Jama is a female name found in various African cultures, including Somali and Swahili”
African origin · Unisex name
What does Jama mean and where does it come from?
Jama is a female name found in various African cultures, including Somali and Swahili. Its meanings vary, often relating to aspects of regional identity or place. In Persian, the name can reference geographical areas. It has gained visibility in some communities, including those with a heritage that
Cultural significance
Jama has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in African-speaking communities, where it reflects values of african.
Peak popularity
Reached #1543 in 1961 — currently #1893 in the US.
Holding steady — currently #1893 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
US Trend 1935–2023#1893 · Top 1.4%
1950
1955
1960
1965
1970
1975
1980
1985
1990
1995
2000
2005
2021
2022
2023
Year
US Rank
Births
vs Prior Year
2023
#1893
307
▲ up 5 · +7% births
2022
#1898
287
▲ up 5 · +12% births
2021
#1903
257
▲ up 12767 · +4183% births
2005
#14670
6
▼ down 3802 · -25% births
2000
#10868
8
▼ down 2690 · -20% births
1995
#8178
10
▲ up 430 · +11% births
1990
#8608
9
▼ down 4438 · -53% births
1985
#4170
19
▼ down 1502 · -46% births
1980
#2668
35
▼ down 374 · -3% births
1975
#2294
36
▲ up 187 · +20% births
1970
#2481
30
▼ down 545 · -17% births
1965
#1936
36
▲ up 36 · +6% births
1960
#1972
34
▼ down 363 · -17% births
1955
#1609
41
▲ up 1389 · +215% births
1950
#2998
13
—
Name Popularity Timeline
Popularity Statistics for Jama
1955Rank #1609
307
#4408
↘Falling
1935 - 202318 years
The story of Jama
Jama entered American naming records in 1918 and has been in use for over 106 years. With 1,643 total births recorded, Jama remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #3363 in 1935 to #1893 in 2023. Jama is used for both genders: 94% female and 6% male.
Jama means "African" — a name rooted in African 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 Jama?
Jama is currently a distinctive and less common name as a baby name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Jama?
Jama originates from African tradition. African 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 Jama?
Jama is a two-syllable name pronounced JH AE1 M AH0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Jama a common or rare name?
Jama is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.
Sibling names that pair with Jama
For a sister
Jama & Latovia♡
Jama & Lakishia♡
Jama & Yakini♡
Jama & Duewa♡
For a brother
Jama & Demeko♡
Jama & Atiim♡
Jama & Yero♡
Jama & Falando♡
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