Declining since 2018, #3,342 for girls today.
Popularity of Swara since 2005
Babies named Swara per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 2000s | 77 |
| 2010s | 605 |
| 2020s | 275 |
Meaning & origin
Swara is a Sanskrit name meaning "musical note" or "melody," deeply rooted in Indian classical music and Hindu culture. It first appeared in U.S. records in 2005, and its popularity peaked in 2018, when it ranked highest among new parents. Since then, its usage has been falling, though it remains a distinctive choice tied to heritage. In 2025, about 1 in 34,941 girls were named Swara, a rare but recognizable name. Its strongest popularity is in California and Texas, reflecting communities with large Indian-American populations. The name's musical meaning and soft sound contribute to its appeal among families seeking a name that honors tradition without being common.
Swara is derived from the Sanskrit root "स्वर" (svara), meaning "sound," "tone," or "melody." In Indian classical music, the seven basic notes (sa, re, ga, ma, pa, dha, ni) are collectively called swaras. The name has been used as a given name in India, particularly among Hindu families, and gained modern popularity in the early 21st century.
Where Swara is most popular
Births per 100,000 girls by state, 2025. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Swari, Swa
Variants: Svara
Sibling names for Swara
Names that share Swara's style, for a brother or sister.
