MallowbyNames

Bisma

BIZ-mah · Of uncertain origin; possibly a variant of Bismah, meaning 'smile' in Arabic, or a feminine form of Bisma, a name in the Mahabharata.

2025 rank (girls)
#8,860
Babies named in 2025
11
Peak popularity
2001
2025 frequency
1 in 146,115 girls
Usually for
Girls
Trend
Rising since 2022

Rising since 2022, #8,860 for girls today.

Popularity of Bisma since 1992

Babies named Bisma per year in U.S. Social Security records.

51116200020102020Most births 2001Girls
Data table (by decade)
DecadeGirls
1990s71
2000s100
2010s61
2020s33

Meaning & origin

Bisma is a rare name in the United States, first recorded in 1992. Its peak popularity came in 2001, and it has been rising in use since 2022. With a current rank of 8860 and about 1 in 146115 newborns receiving the name, it remains an uncommon choice. The name's etymology is uncertain, with potential roots in Arabic (Bismah, 'smile') or Sanskrit (through Bheeshma of the Mahabharata), reflecting diverse cultural influences. This ambiguity adds to its distinctive appeal, especially among families seeking a unique yet culturally resonant name.

The name Bisma has multiple potential origins, leading to uncertainty. In Arabic, it may be a variant of Bismah, derived from the word 'basm' meaning 'smile'. Alternatively, it could be a feminine form of Bheeshma (or Bhishma), a figure from the Indian epic Mahabharata, where the name means 'terrible' or 'formidable'. Given its use in modern times, particularly in South Asian communities, it may also be a coined name blending sounds from various traditions.

Nicknames & variants

Nicknames: Bis, Mama

Variants: Bismah, Bheeshma

Sibling names for Bisma

Names that share Bisma's style, for a brother or sister.

Sisters: Aisha, Inaya, Zara, Noor, Leila

Brothers: Omar, Zayn, Rayan, Amir, Hasan

A parent animal hugging its little one, the personalized name page

B is for Bisma, our favorite little girl.

B is for Bisma…”

In a Mallowby alphabet book, Bisma's letter becomes Bisma's page: hand-illustrated, printed hardcover or paperback, made just for them.

Make Bisma's book

Books for siblings or grandkids? The second book is 15% off.

Questions parents ask

What does the name Bisma mean?
The meaning of Bisma is uncertain. It may mean 'smile' in Arabic or be a feminine form of Bhishma, a name from the Mahabharata meaning 'terrible'.
How popular is Bisma today?
As of 2025, Bisma ranks 8860 in the United States, with about 1 in 146115 newborns given the name, reflecting its rarity. Its peak popularity was in 2001.
Is Bisma a boy or girl name?
Bisma is primarily used as a girl's name, though its origins allow for unisex use.