Kama

Meaning & origin

Kama is a rare and enigmatic name that has appeared sporadically in the United States since the mid-20th century. First recorded in 1954, the name saw its peak usage in 1972, which remains its highest point of popularity. Despite that peak, it has never been a common name; its trajectory has been stable at very low levels, and in the most recent year available (2025), it did not rank in the top 1000. The origins of Kama are unclear, and it is not strongly associated with any particular culture or meaning. Often considered a variant of names like Cama or Kamala, or a modern coinage, Kama's appeal may lie in its simplicity and soft sound. It has not been concentrated in any particular state, reflecting its nationwide rarity. For parents seeking a truly distinctive name with a modern feel, Kama offers an obscure but gentle option.

The name Kama is of uncertain origin. It may be a modern invention, possibly a variant of the name Cama or a shortened form of Kamala. In Sanskrit, 'kama' means desire or love, but there is no evidence directly linking the English given name to this source. The name has been in sporadic use in the United States since at least the 1950s, with a peak in 1972, though it remains very rare.