Zuma

“Zulu” — Associated with peace and harmony in Zulu

South Africa origin · Unisex name

♂ 3% boys♀ 97% girls

#698US 2023

1.5kBirths / yr

→Stable

145All-time births

📅 Since 188900

What does Zuma mean and where does it come from?

The name Zuma is derived from the Zulu language, which is one of the official languages of South Africa. It was popularized by Zuma, a surname that has been used by prominent figures in South Africa, most notably Jacob Zuma, the former president. The name is associated with peace and harmony in Zulu

Cultural significance

Zuma has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in South Africa-speaking communities, where it reflects values of zulu.

Peak popularity

Reached #1117 in 1895 — currently #698 in the US.

🌿

What middle names flow best with Zuma?

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

Zuma Grace

How popular is Zuma right now?

Holding steady — currently #698 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names

US Trend 1895–2023#698 · Top 0.52%

1895

1900

1910

1915

1920

1925

2021

2022

2023

Year	US Rank	Births	vs Prior Year
2023	#698	1,502	▲ up 5 · +1% births
2022	#703	1,482	▲ up 5 · +2% births
2021	#708	1,452	▲ up 3397 · +20643% births
1925	#4105	7	▲ up 376 · +17% births
1920	#4481	6	▼ down 967 · -14% births
1915	#3514	7	▼ down 1804 · -22% births
1910	#1710	9	▲ up 330 · +80% births
1900	#2040	5	▼ down 923 · -50% births
1895	#1117	10	—

Name Popularity Timeline

Popularity Statistics for Zuma

Best Year2023Rank #698

Peak Count1,502

Average Rank#2245

Current Trend↗Rising

Data Range1900 - 20238 years

The story of Zuma

Zuma has been a beloved American name for over 135 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1889. With 145 total births recorded, Zuma remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #1117 in 1895 to #698 in 2023. Zuma is used for both genders: 97% female and 3% male.

Names that peaked alongside Zuma in 1895:

Mary Anna Helen Margaret Elizabeth

Zuma by decade

Zuma peaked in the 1890s. See all 1890s names →

Decade	Births
1880s	5
1890s	10
1900s	20
1910s ★	64
1920s	36
1930s	5
2020s	5

💎Zuma has only 145 total recorded births since 1889 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.

What are good nicknames for Zuma?

Common

ZumZumieZumy

What names sound and feel like Zuma?

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

Cuma

Turkey · from the Turkish

Zumra

Turkey · Turkish

Suma

India · one who brings

Numa

Latin · a source of

Duma

French · A French name

Common questions about the name Zuma

What does the name Zuma mean?

Zuma means "Zulu" — a name rooted in South Africa 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 Zuma?

Zuma is currently ranked #698 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 Zuma?

Zuma originates from South Africa tradition. South Africa names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.

Is Zuma more of a girl or boy name?

Zuma is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.

What personality traits are associated with the name Zuma?

Studies on name perception suggest that Zuma is often associated with balance and approachability. Of course, personality is shaped by experience, not a name — but the perception can influence first impressions throughout life.