What does Kamara mean and where does it come from?
Kamara is a name found in multiple African cultures, often meaning 'moonlight' or 'bringer of light.' It may originate from several tribes and regions, including East and West Africa. The name has gained international recognition, especially in the diaspora, where it is embraced for its bright and u
Cultural significance
Kamara has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in African-speaking communities, where it reflects values of a beloved name with deep roots.
Peak popularity
Reached #2236 in 2007 — currently #3451 in the US.
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Related Reading
African-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Kamara?
Kamara works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Kamara Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Kamara Rose
Floral · soft ending
Kamara Mae
Sweet · timeless
Kamara Claire
French influence · crisp
Kamara Jane
Literary · strong
Kamara Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Kamara right now?
Falling — down 355 spots — currently #3451 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #3451 | 46 | ▼ down 355 · -13% births |
| 2022 | #3096 | 53 | ▼ down 698 · -29% births |
| 2021 | #2398 | 75 | ▲ up 408 · +29% births |
| 2020 | #2806 | 58 | ▲ up 910 · +41% births |
| 2015 | #3716 | 41 | ▼ down 1323 · -48% births |
| 2010 | #2393 | 79 | ▲ up 50 · +10% births |
| 2005 | #2443 | 72 | ▲ up 1179 · +100% births |
| 2000 | #3622 | 36 | ▼ down 299 · +6% births |
| 1995 | #3323 | 34 | ▲ up 636 · +31% births |
| 1990 | #3959 | 26 | ▼ down 742 · -7% births |
| 1985 | #3217 | 28 | ▲ up 2935 · +155% births |
| 1980 | #6152 | 11 | ▼ down 1374 · -15% births |
| 1975 | #4778 | 13 | ▲ up 228 · +18% births |
| 1970 | #5006 | 11 | ▲ up 1479 · +83% births |
| 1965 | #6485 | 6 | — |
The story of Kamara
Kamara is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 1965. With 1,830 total births recorded, Kamara remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #6485 in 1965 to #3451 in 2023. Kamara is used for both genders: 99% female and 1% male.
Names that peaked alongside Kamara in 2007:
Kamara by decade
Kamara peaked in the 2000s. See all 2000s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1960s | 25 | |
| 1970s | 149 | |
| 1980s | 168 | |
| 1990s | 268 | |
| 2000s ★ | 609 | |
| 2010s | 553 | |
| 2020s | 58 | |
💎With 1,830 total births, Kamara is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Kamara?
Famous people named Kamara
K(
Kamara (East African historical figure)
Kamara carried this name in the rich cultural heritage of East African civilization.
K(
Kamara (African poet or griot)
Kamara passed this name through the oral tradition of African storytelling and music.
K(
Kamara (Pan-African activist)
Kamara used this name in the movement for African cultural pride and independence.
K(
Kamara (modern African leader)
Kamara brought this name to international recognition in contemporary African politics and culture.
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Celebrity Names
What celebrities named their babies in 2024
Explore →What names sound and feel like Kamara?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Kamara also consider these
Common questions about the name Kamara
What does the name Kamara mean?
Kamara means "A beloved name with deep roots" — 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 Kamara?
Kamara is currently a distinctive and less common name as a baby 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 Kamara?
Kamara 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 Kamara?
Kamara is a three-syllable name pronounced K AE1 M AE1 R AH0. 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 Kamara?
Kamara pairs beautifully with sibling names that share a similar African heritage or complement its melodic and flowing sound. Names with a similar vibe create a cohesive sibling set without matching too closely.