MallowbyNames

Yakima

YAK-uh-mah · Of uncertain origin; possibly borrowed from the Yakama people or place name.

Peak popularity
1978
Usually for
Girls
Trend
Holding steady

Holding steady.

Popularity of Yakima since 1971

Babies named Yakima per year in U.S. Social Security records.

81523198020002020Most births 1980Girls
Data table (by decade)
DecadeGirls
1970s103
1980s96
1990s51
2000s11
2010s0
2020s0

Meaning & origin

Yakima first entered U.S. birth records in 1971, reaching its peak year of usage in 1978 before settling into a stable but rare trajectory. It has never ranked among the top 1000 names, reflecting its niche appeal. The name, while uncommon, carries a strong geographic and cultural association with the Yakama Nation and the Yakima Valley in Washington. Although no single state stood out enough to record as a top state, the name has seen scattered use across the country. Its origin is rooted in the indigenous place name, making it a distinctive choice for parents seeking a name with natural and cultural resonance.

Yakima is a place name and tribal name of the Yakama (formerly Yakima) people of the Pacific Northwest. Its use as a given name is a modern adoption, likely inspired by the river, city, or tribe name. It has seen sporadic usage in the United States since the 1970s, primarily for girls.

Nicknames & variants

Nicknames: Yaki

Variants: Yakama

Sibling names for Yakima

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

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

Y is for Yakima, our favorite little girl.

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Questions parents ask

What does the name Yakima mean?
Yakima is a name of Native American origin, derived from the Yakama people and place names in Washington state. Its exact meaning is uncertain, but it is likely associated with the tribal name.
Is Yakima a popular name?
Yakima is a rare name. It first appeared in U.S. records in 1971 and saw its peak usage in 1978, but it has never been in the top 1000.
Is Yakima a boy or girl name?
Yakima is predominantly used for girls, though the data shows occasional use for both genders.