Rising since 2005, #4,987 for girls today.
Popularity of Asmara since 1993
Babies named Asmara per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1990s | 16 |
| 2000s | 25 |
| 2010s | 82 |
| 2020s | 70 |
Meaning & origin
Asmara is a name of Eritrean origin, directly tied to the capital city of Eritrea. Its first recorded use in the United States was in 1993, and it has been gradually rising in popularity, particularly since 2005. As of 2025, it ranked 4,987, with an estimated 1 in 61,818 girls receiving the name. Its peak year is 2025, indicating continued growth. The name carries a strong sense of place and cultural heritage, appealing to parents seeking a distinctive, meaningful name. Though still uncommon, Asmara's trajectory suggests it may become more familiar over time.
Asmara is primarily a place name, the capital of Eritrea. The name is derived from the Tigrinya phrase 'Arbaete Asmara,' meaning 'the four (villages) united.' The legend recounts that four villages on a high plateau merged into one settlement, which became known as Asmara. As a given name, it emerged in the late 20th century, likely inspired by the city's growing prominence.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Asi, Mara
Sibling names for Asmara
Names that share Asmara's style, for a brother or sister.
