What does Karma mean and where does it come from?
The name 'Karma' is derived from the Sanskrit word 'कर्म' (karma), meaning action or deed. In Indian religions, it is a concept that refers to the actions of individuals and the resultant consequences. The term became popular in Western cultures during the late 20th century, particularly through the
Cultural significance
Karma has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in India-speaking communities, where it reflects values of action, work, fate.
Peak popularity
Reached #758 in 2009 — currently #1203 in the US.
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Related Reading
India-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Karma?
Karma works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Karma Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Karma Rose
Floral · soft ending
Karma Mae
Sweet · timeless
Karma Claire
French influence · crisp
Karma Jane
Literary · strong
Karma Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Karma right now?
Rising fast — up 135 spots — currently #1203 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #1203 | 199 | ▲ up 135 · +13% births |
| 2022 | #1338 | 176 | ▼ down 37 · +1% births |
| 2021 | #1301 | 174 | ▼ down 107 · -9% births |
| 2020 | #1194 | 191 | ▼ down 16 · -11% births |
| 2015 | #1178 | 214 | ▼ down 283 · -27% births |
| 2010 | #895 | 295 | ▼ down 47 · -1% births |
| 2005 | #848 | 298 | ▲ up 1795 · +432% births |
| 2000 | #2643 | 56 | ▲ up 4467 · +367% births |
| 1995 | #7110 | 12 | ▲ up 2252 · +50% births |
| 1990 | #9362 | 8 | ▼ down 4461 · -47% births |
| 1985 | #4901 | 15 | ▼ down 2015 · -52% births |
| 1980 | #2886 | 31 | ▼ down 970 · -34% births |
| 1975 | #1916 | 47 | ▼ down 403 · -29% births |
| 1970 | #1513 | 66 | ▲ up 451 · +89% births |
| 1965 | #1964 | 35 | — |
The story of Karma
Karma entered American naming records in 1915 and has been in use for over 109 years. With 6,939 total births recorded, Karma remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #4193 in 1915 to #1203 in 2023. Karma is used for both genders: 97% female and 3% male.
Names that peaked alongside Karma in 2009:
Karma by decade
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1910s | 23 | |
| 1920s | 113 | |
| 1930s | 185 | |
| 1940s | 232 | |
| 1950s | 344 | |
| 1960s | 336 | |
| 1970s | 578 | |
| 1980s | 220 | |
| 1990s | 186 | |
| 2000s | 2,034 | |
| 2010s ★ | 2,480 | |
| 2020s | 208 | |
💎With 6,939 total births, Karma is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Karma?
What names sound and feel like Karma?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Karma also consider these
How is Karma written in other languages?
Common questions about the name Karma
What does the name Karma mean?
Karma means "action, work, fate" — 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 Karma?
Karma 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 Karma?
Karma 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 Karma?
Karma is a two-syllable name pronounced K AA1 R M AH0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Karma a common or rare name?
Karma is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.