Rising since 2009, #5,208 for boys today.
Popularity of Osama since 1968
Babies named Osama per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1960s | 6 |
| 1970s | 63 |
| 1980s | 181 |
| 1990s | 419 |
| 2000s | 137 |
| 2010s | 96 |
| 2020s | 77 |
Meaning & origin
Osama presents a complex legacy: an Arabic name meaning 'lion' with deep historical and cultural resonance, yet heavily burdened by its most famous bearer in modern times. Originally recorded in the U.S. in 1968, it peaked in 1999 at rank 1,236 but saw a dramatic decline after 2001. Remarkably, the name has been rising again since 2009, possibly as families reclaim its original meaning. In 2025 it ranked 5,208, with a 1-in-94,893 occurrence. Its trajectory shows steady growth over the last sixteen years, though it remains rare. The spelling variant 'Usama' is also used. Parents considering this name today often cite its strong meaning and heritage, and it is used across many Islamic cultures.
Osama derives directly from the Arabic root 'USM', related to strength and ferocity. The name 'Usāmah' is classically interpreted as 'lion', a common masculine virtue name in Arabic. It appears in early Islamic history but became a global household association in the late 20th century. Despite the famous bearer, the name has deep roots in honorific naming traditions.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Sam, Osa, Samy
Sibling names for Osama
Names that share Osama's style, for a brother or sister.
