What does Soma mean and where does it come from?
In Sanskrit, Soma means 'moon' or 'body', associated with tranquility and beauty; it is also linked to ancient rituals. In Japan, Soma can mean 'tall stature' (背丈の高い), often used metaphorically to denote strength and resilience. The name has cultural significance in both Hindu and Japanese contexts.
Cultural significance
Soma has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in India-speaking communities, where it reflects values of moon; body.
Peak popularity
Reached #8386 in 1973 — currently #13012 in the US.
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Related Reading
India-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Soma?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Soma?
Soma works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Soma Jack
One syllable · timeless choice
Soma John
One syllable · timeless choice
Soma Miles
One syllable · vintage charm
Soma Leah
One syllable · timeless choice
Soma Brooks
One syllable · timeless choice
Soma Gael
One syllable · timeless choice
How popular is Soma right now?
Falling — down 990 spots — currently #13012 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2025 | #13012 | 7 | ▼ down 990 · -12% births |
| 2024 | #12022 | 8 | ▼ down 1379 · +14% births |
| 2023 | #10643 | 7 | ▼ down 4218 · -50% births |
| 2022 | #6425 | 14 | ▲ up 1078 · +27% births |
| 2021 | #7503 | 11 | ▲ up 7971 · +120% births |
| 2020 | #15474 | 5 | ▼ down 1763 · -17% births |
| 2000 | #13711 | 6 | ▼ down 4932 · -14% births |
| 1980 | #8779 | 7 | — |
The story of Soma
Soma is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 1973. With 168 total births recorded, Soma remains relatively uncommon. Once ranked #8779 in 1980, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #10643 in 2023. Soma is used for both genders: 45% female and 55% male.
Names that peaked alongside Soma in 1973:
Soma by decade
Soma peaked in the 1970s. See all 1970s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1970s | 6 | |
| 1980s | 7 | |
| 1990s | 8 | |
| 2000s | 39 | |
| 2010s ★ | 94 | |
| 2020s | 48 | |
💎Soma has only 168 total recorded births since 1973 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.
What are good nicknames for Soma?
What names sound and feel like Soma?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Soma also consider these
Common questions about the name Soma
What does the name Soma mean?
Soma means "moon; body" — 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 Soma?
Soma 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 Soma?
Soma 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 Soma?
Soma is a two-syllable name pronounced SOH-mah. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Soma a common or rare name?
Soma is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.