Declining since 1996, #11,932 for girls today.
Popularity of Sumer since 1971
Babies named Sumer per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1970s | 298 |
| 1980s | 408 |
| 1990s | 433 |
| 2000s | 296 |
| 2010s | 73 |
| 2020s | 19 |
Meaning & origin
Sumer is a rare modern name with uncertain origins, possibly derived from the surname Sumner or the ancient Mesopotamian region. First recorded in 1971, it saw its peak usage in 1977, but has been in steady decline since 1996. In 2025, it ranked 11,932, with approximately 1 in 229,610 newborn girls receiving the name. Its uniqueness and phonetic appeal make it a distinctive choice for parents seeking an uncommon name.
The name Sumer is a modern coinage, likely derived from the surname Sumner, which itself comes from Middle English 'sumner' meaning 'summoner,' a court official. Alternatively, it may be inspired by the ancient Mesopotamian region of Sumer. Its modern use is rare, emerging primarily in the United States since the early 1970s.
Sibling names for Sumer
Names that share Sumer's style, for a brother or sister.
