Sumie

“beautiful picture”

Japan origin · Girl name

♂ 3% boys♀ 97% girls

#1948US 2023

252Births / yr

→Stable

223All-time births

📅 Since 191500

What does Sumie mean and where does it come from?

Sumie (墨絵) is a traditional Japanese name linked to the art of ink painting, known as sumi-e. This art form emphasizes simplicity and subtlety, often focusing on natural themes. The name Sumie is relatively uncommon outside Japan and carries cultural significance reflecting Japanese aesthetics. The

Cultural significance

Sumie has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Japan-speaking communities, where it reflects values of beautiful picture.

Peak popularity

Reached #1929 in 1927 — currently #1948 in the US.

🌿

What middle names flow best with Sumie?

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

Sumie Grace

How popular is Sumie right now?

Holding steady — currently #1948 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names

US Trend 1915–2023#1948 · Top 1.4%

1915

1920

1925

1930

1940

2021

2022

2023

Year	US Rank	Births	vs Prior Year
2023	#1948	252	▲ up 5 · +9% births
2022	#1953	232	▲ up 5 · +15% births
2021	#1958	202	▲ up 2723 · +3940% births
1940	#4681	5	▼ down 773 · -29% births
1930	#3908	7	▲ up 27 · -12% births
1925	#3935	8	▼ down 1857 · -58% births
1920	#2078	19	▲ up 1347 · +138% births
1915	#3425	8	—

Name Popularity Timeline

Popularity Statistics for Sumie

Best Year2023Rank #1948

Peak Count252

Average Rank#2986

Current Trend↗Rising

Data Range1915 - 20238 years

The story of Sumie

Sumie entered American naming records in 1915 and has been in use for over 109 years. With 223 total births recorded, Sumie remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #3425 in 1915 to #1948 in 2023.

Names that peaked alongside Sumie in 1927:

Mary Dorothy Betty Helen Margaret

Sumie by decade

Sumie peaked in the 1920s. See all 1920s names →

Decade	Births
1910s	42
1920s ★	137
1930s	39
1940s	5

💎Sumie has only 223 total recorded births since 1915 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.

What are good nicknames for Sumie?

Common

SumSumy

What names sound and feel like Sumie?

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

Fumie

Japan · not necessarily defined

American · A diminutive form

English · rose or lily

Common questions about the name Sumie

What does the name Sumie mean?

Sumie means "beautiful picture" — 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 Sumie?

Sumie is currently a distinctive and less common name 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 Sumie?

Sumie 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.

Is Sumie a common or rare name?

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

What are good nicknames for Sumie?

Sumie naturally lends itself to affectionate nicknames. Shortened versions based on the first syllable are most popular, and many parents also create unique pet names that feel personal to their family.