What does Sumi mean and where does it come from?
Sumi is a name that can have various meanings depending on the cultural context. In Japan, it can refer to being taken from the water, often used in artistic or poetic contexts. In Korea, Sumi means 'pure', and it is also a common name. In India, derived from Sanskrit, it signifies 'goodness' or 'vi
Cultural significance
Sumi has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Japan-speaking communities, where it reflects values of to take from the water.
Peak popularity
Reached #3514 in 1927 — currently #14959 in the US.
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Related Reading
Japan-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Sumi?
Sumi works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Sumi Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Sumi Rose
Floral · soft ending
Sumi Claire
French influence · crisp
Sumi Jane
Literary · strong
Sumi Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Sumi right now?
Rising fast — up 2495 spots — currently #14959 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #14959 | 6 | ▲ up 2495 · +20% births |
| 2022 | #17454 | 5 | ▼ down 62 |
| 2021 | #17392 | 5 | ▼ down 3921 · -17% births |
| 2020 | #13471 | 6 | ▼ down 5304 |
| 1975 | #8167 | 6 | ▼ down 1524 · +20% births |
| 1960 | #6643 | 5 | ▼ down 2675 · -37% births |
| 1925 | #3968 | 8 | — |
The story of Sumi
Sumi entered American naming records in 1916 and has been in use for over 108 years. With 190 total births recorded, Sumi remains relatively uncommon. Once ranked #3968 in 1925, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #14959 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Sumi in 1927:
Sumi by decade
Sumi peaked in the 1920s. See all 1920s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1910s | 24 | |
| 1920s ★ | 67 | |
| 1930s | 7 | |
| 1960s | 10 | |
| 1970s | 18 | |
| 1980s | 13 | |
| 1990s | 6 | |
| 2000s | 21 | |
| 2010s | 18 | |
| 2020s | 6 | |
💎Sumi has only 190 total recorded births since 1916 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.
What are good nicknames for Sumi?
What names sound and feel like Sumi?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Sumi also consider these
Common questions about the name Sumi
What does the name Sumi mean?
Sumi means "To take from the water" — a name rooted in Japan 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 Sumi?
Sumi is currently a distinctive and less common name as a girl 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 Sumi?
Sumi originates from Japan tradition. Japan 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 Sumi?
Sumi is a two-syllable name pronounced S UW1 M IY1. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Sumi a common or rare name?
Sumi is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.