Luma

Meaning & origin

Luma is a rare name in the United States, first appearing in official records in 1918 but remaining obscure for most of the 20th century. It saw a modest surge beginning in the 2010s, reaching its peak rank of 7,491 in 2023. However, the name has been on a downward trajectory since 2022, with approximately 1 in 114,805 newborns receiving it in 2025. Its etymology is speculative; it may be a modern respelling of Luna or a shortened form of Lumina, though no definitive origin has been established. Luma has not been recorded among the top names in any U.S. state, reflecting its niche appeal. The name lacks a long history of famous bearers or consistent usage, making it a contemporary choice for parents seeking something short and melodic. Its similarity to the more popular Luna likely contributes to its occasional use.

Luma first appeared in U.S. birth records in 1918, but its earliest recorded use is scattered and rare, suggesting it may have been an independent invention or a variant of the Latin-derived Luna ('moon'). In the 21st century, Luma gained modest visibility, possibly as a phonetic alternative to Luna or a short form of names like Aluma. Its meaning is not well-attested, and its origin remains uncertain.