What does Tema mean and where does it come from?
Tema is a name found in both Greek and Hebrew cultures. In Greek, it can refer to a gift or offering, while in Hebrew it denotes a connection to regions. The name is not overly common but carries a unique appeal. In Hebrew lore, it is referenced in references such as the theme of land.
Cultural significance
Tema has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Greece-speaking communities, where it reflects values of gift.
Peak popularity
Reached #4215 in 1933 — currently #11831 in the US.
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Related Reading
Greece-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Tema?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Tema?
Tema works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Tema Leah
One syllable · timeless choice
Tema Quinn
One syllable · timeless choice
Tema Blair
One syllable · on the rise
Tema Ruth
One syllable · timeless choice
Tema Wren
One syllable · vintage charm
Tema Faith
One syllable · vintage charm
How popular is Tema right now?
Rising fast — up 5620 spots — currently #11831 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2025 | #11831 | 8 | ▲ up 5620 · +60% births |
| 2024 | #17451 | 5 | ▼ down 6379 · -44% births |
| 2023 | #11072 | 9 | ▼ down 756 · -10% births |
| 2022 | #10316 | 10 | ▼ down 2061 · +67% births |
| 1975 | #8255 | 6 | ▲ up 121 · +20% births |
| 1970 | #8376 | 5 | ▼ down 3480 |
| 1940 | #4896 | 5 | — |
The story of Tema
Tema entered American naming records in 1933 and has been in use for over 91 years. With 157 total births recorded, Tema remains relatively uncommon. Once ranked #4896 in 1940, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #11072 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Tema in 1933:
Tema by decade
Tema peaked in the 1930s. See all 1930s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1930s | 6 | |
| 1940s | 17 | |
| 1950s | 19 | |
| 1960s | 34 | |
| 1970s ★ | 41 | |
| 1980s | 6 | |
| 1990s | 12 | |
| 2000s | 5 | |
| 2010s | 17 | |
| 2020s | 13 | |
💎Tema has only 157 total recorded births since 1933 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.
What are good nicknames for Tema?
What names sound and feel like Tema?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Tema also consider these
Common questions about the name Tema
What does the name Tema mean?
Tema means "gift" — a name rooted in Greece 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 Tema?
Tema is currently a distinctive and less common name as a girl name in the US and is rapidly gaining popularity — searches for Tema have increased significantly in recent years.
What is the cultural origin of Tema?
Tema originates from Greece tradition. Greece 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 Tema?
Tema is a two-syllable name pronounced TEE-MAH. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Tema trending right now?
Tema is currently on the rise — it has gained significant momentum in recent years as parents discover its appeal.