Kema

“The one who brings joy”

American origin · Girl name

♂ 3% boys♀ 97% girls

#947US 2023

1.3kBirths / yr

→Stable

185All-time births

📅 Since 195900

How to pronounce Kema

KEM·AH

/ˈkɛm.ˈɑ/ · stress on KEM · 2 syllables

“The one who brings joy”

American origin · Girl name

What does Kema mean and where does it come from?

Kema can be found in various cultures, particularly among African communities, and it carries themes of happiness and joy. In Nigeria, it has particular significance and is often given to girls with hopes of bringing happiness to the family. The name has gained traction in the United States, especia

Cultural significance

Kema has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in American-speaking communities, where it reflects values of the one who brings joy.

Peak popularity

Reached #4090 in 1973 — currently #947 in the US.

🌿

What middle names flow best with Kema?

Kema works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful

Kema Grace

How popular is Kema right now?

Holding steady — currently #947 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names

US Trend 1965–2023#947 · Top 0.70%

1965

1970

1975

1980

1985

2021

2022

2023

Year	US Rank	Births	vs Prior Year
2023	#947	1,253	▲ up 5 · +2% births
2022	#952	1,233	▲ up 5 · +2% births
2021	#957	1,203	▲ up 10242 · +23960% births
1985	#11199	5	▼ down 1658 · -17% births
1980	#9541	6	▼ down 4792 · -54% births
1975	#4749	13	▼ down 315
1970	#4434	13	▲ up 2797 · +160% births
1965	#7231	5	—

Name Popularity Timeline

Popularity Statistics for Kema

Best Year2023Rank #947

Peak Count1,253

Average Rank#5001

Current Trend↗Rising

Data Range1965 - 20238 years

The story of Kema

Kema entered American naming records in 1959 and has been in use for over 65 years. With 185 total births recorded, Kema remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #7231 in 1965 to #947 in 2023.

Names that peaked alongside Kema in 1973:

Jennifer Amy Michelle Kimberly Lisa

Kema by decade

Kema peaked in the 1970s. See all 1970s names →

Decade	Births
1950s	5
1960s	10
1970s ★	107
1980s	36
1990s	10
2000s	17

💎Kema has only 185 total recorded births since 1959 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.

What are good nicknames for Kema?

Common

KemKemieKemy

What names sound and feel like Kema?

Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Kema also consider these

Kemma

American · A form of

Nema

American · A name meaning

Jema

American · Gem

Kela

American · Pure, clear

Kemia

American · Possessing a spirit

Keema

India · कीमा - minced

Vema

India · Sanskrit

Kena

American · A beloved name

Common questions about the name Kema

What does the name Kema mean?

Kema means "The one who brings joy" — a name rooted in American 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 Kema?

Kema is currently ranked #947 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 Kema?

Kema originates from American tradition. American 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 Kema?

Kema is a two-syllable name pronounced K EH1 M AA1. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.

Is Kema a common or rare name?

Kema is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.