What does Pema mean and where does it come from?
Pema is a name of Tibetan origin, meaning 'lotus'. The lotus flower holds significant symbolism in various Eastern religions, representing purity, enlightenment, and rebirth. It is particularly revered in Buddhism, where it symbolizes spiritual awakening. Pema is used widely in Tibetan culture, and
Cultural significance
Pema has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Tibet-speaking communities, where it reflects values of པད་མ.
Peak popularity
Reached #7955 in 2014 — currently #7953 in the US.
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Related Reading
Tibet-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Pema?
Pema works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Pema Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Pema Rose
Floral · soft ending
Pema Claire
French influence · crisp
Pema Jane
Literary · strong
Pema Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Pema right now?
Falling — down 405 spots — currently #7953 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #7953 | 14 | ▼ down 405 · -7% births |
| 2022 | #7548 | 15 | ▲ up 9521 · +200% births |
| 2021 | #17069 | 5 | ▼ down 7792 · -55% births |
| 2020 | #9277 | 11 | ▼ down 489 · -15% births |
| 2015 | #8788 | 13 | ▲ up 7441 · +117% births |
| 2010 | #16229 | 6 | — |
The story of Pema
Pema is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 2001. With 192 total births recorded, Pema remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #16229 in 2010 to #7953 in 2023. Pema is used for both genders: 94% female and 6% male.
Names that peaked alongside Pema in 2014:
💎Pema has only 192 total recorded births since 2001 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.
What are good nicknames for Pema?
What names sound and feel like Pema?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Pema also consider these
How is Pema written in other languages?
Common questions about the name Pema
What does the name Pema mean?
Pema means "པད་མ" — a name rooted in Tibet 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 Pema?
Pema is currently a distinctive and less common name as a baby name in the US and is rapidly gaining popularity — searches for Pema have increased significantly in recent years.
What is the cultural origin of Pema?
Pema originates from Tibet tradition. Tibet names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
Is Pema trending right now?
Pema is currently on the rise — it has gained significant momentum in recent years as parents discover its appeal.
Is Pema a common or rare name?
Pema is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.