What does Usha mean and where does it come from?
Usha is a traditional name of Sanskrit origin meaning 'dawn.' In Hindu mythology, Usha is also associated with the goddess of dawn. The name is quite popular in India, often given to girls born in the early morning hours. It reflects the imagery and symbolism associated with new beginnings and light
Cultural significance
Usha has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in India-speaking communities, where it reflects values of dawn.
Peak popularity
Reached #4727 in 1973 — currently #17788 in the US.
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Related Reading
India-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Usha?
Usha works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Usha Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Usha Rose
Floral · soft ending
Usha Claire
French influence · crisp
Usha Jane
Literary · strong
Usha Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Usha right now?
Falling — down 6298 spots — currently #17788 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 1995 | #13785 | 5 | ▼ down 6298 · -29% births |
| 1975 | #7487 | 7 | ▼ down 2237 · -30% births |
| 1970 | #5250 | 10 | — |
The story of Usha
Usha entered American naming records in 1951 and has been in use for over 73 years. With 152 total births recorded, Usha remains relatively uncommon. Once ranked #5250 in 1970, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #13785 in 1995.
Names that peaked alongside Usha in 1973:
Usha by decade
Usha peaked in the 1970s. See all 1970s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1950s | 5 | |
| 1960s | 18 | |
| 1970s ★ | 78 | |
| 1980s | 25 | |
| 1990s | 11 | |
| 2000s | 5 | |
| 2010s | 10 | |
💎Usha has only 152 total recorded births since 1951 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.
What names sound and feel like Usha?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Usha also consider these
How is Usha written in other languages?
Nepali), ಉಷಾ
Kannada), உஷா (Tamil), ఉష, ఉషా (Telugu), ഉഷ, ഉഷാ (Malayalam
Common questions about the name Usha
What does the name Usha mean?
Usha means "dawn" — 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 Usha?
Usha 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 Usha?
Usha 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 Usha?
Usha is a two-syllable name pronounced AH1 S HH AA1. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Usha a common or rare name?
Usha is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.