MallowbyNames

Mima

MEE-mə · Of uncertain origin, possibly a short form of names like Jemima or a variant of Mimì.

Peak popularity
1885
Usually for
Girls
Trend
Holding steady

Holding steady.

Popularity of Mima since 1880

Babies named Mima per year in U.S. Social Security records. Raw births topped out in 1935, but relative to how few babies were recorded back then, Mima's real moment was 1885.

817251880192019602000Most births 1935Girls
Data table (by decade)
DecadeGirls
1880s80
1890s101
1900s75
1910s112
1920s114
1930s113
1940s48
1950s29
1960s16
1970s13
1980s0
1990s5
2000s0
2010s19
2020s12

Meaning & origin

Mima is an exceedingly rare feminine name that has never appeared on the modern U.S. popularity charts. Its first recorded use was in 1880, and it saw its peak in 1885, after which its usage declined sharply. The trajectory for Mima has been stable at extremely low levels for decades, with no births reported in recent years. The name does not appear in the top states for any period, reflecting its scarce distribution. While its origins are unclear, Mima likely functions as a nickname or diminutive, akin to other -ma endings from the late 1800s. Given its obscurity, Mima offers a distinctly vintage and unusual choice for parents seeking a name with historical roots but minimal modern use.

Mima is a rare given name that likely originated as a diminutive or pet form of Jemima, an English name from Hebrew meaning 'dove.' It may also be a variant of the Italian nickname Mimì, derived from Maria or other names. The name saw modest use in the late 19th century, peaking in 1885, but has remained uncommon since.

Sibling names for Mima

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

Sisters: Lila, Nina, Dora, Susie, Effie, Alga

Brothers: Archie, Theo, Jasper, Otis, Freddie

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

M is for Mima, our favorite little girl.

M is for Mima…”

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

Make Mima's book

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

Questions parents ask

What does the name Mima mean?
The meaning of Mima is uncertain. It may be a short form of Jemima (Hebrew for 'dove') or a variant of Mimì, a nickname for Maria or other names.
Is Mima a popular name?
No, Mima is very rare. It was most popular in 1885 but has not ranked in recent decades. In 2025, there were too few births to report a rank.
Is Mima a girl's name or a boy's name?
Mima is typically used as a girl's name.