Find out how popular the first name Ima has been for the last 46 years (from 1975 to 2020) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Ima by gender

Based on the last 46 years of data, Ima is exclusively a female name.

For the most recent data in 2020, there were 6 female babies and 0 male babies born with the name Ima.

The history of the first name Ima

The name Ima has its roots in various ancient languages and cultures, tracing back to antiquity. One potential origin is from the Sanskrit word "Iama," meaning "Lord of the Universe" or "Divine Being." This connection suggests that the name may have been associated with spiritual or religious contexts in ancient Indian civilizations.

Another possible source is the Hebrew word "Immah," which translates to "mother" or "grandmother." In this interpretation, Ima could have been a name bestowed upon females, carrying the connotation of nurturing and maternal qualities. Some scholars also link it to the Hebrew word "Ima," meaning "with" or "beside," implying companionship or togetherness.

In ancient Egyptian mythology, the name Ima may have been derived from the goddess Imat, who was revered as the personification of fertility and renewal. This association would have given the name a symbolic significance within Egyptian culture and beliefs.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Ima can be found in the ancient Sumerian literature, where it was used as a personal name for both males and females. In the Epic of Gilgamesh, one of the oldest known literary works, a character named Ima appears as a minor figure.

Throughout history, several notable individuals have borne the name Ima. Among them was Ima Pedersen (1849-1936), a Norwegian writer and women's rights activist who played a pivotal role in the early feminist movement in her country. Another remarkable figure was Ima Hogg (1882-1975), an American philanthropist and patron of the arts, known for her significant contributions to the preservation of historic sites and cultural institutions in Texas.

In the realm of ancient philosophy, Ima Alnairi (c. 500 BCE) was a renowned Greek philosopher and mathematician, recognized for her groundbreaking work in the field of geometry. Her treatises and theorems influenced the development of mathematical thought in the classical world.

Ima Sumac (1922-2008), a Peruvian soprano, was celebrated for her remarkable vocal range and her fusion of traditional Andean music with contemporary styles. Her unique sound and performances captivated audiences worldwide, earning her a place in the annals of music history.

Lastly, Ima Nazreen (1975-present) is a contemporary Malaysian artist and activist, renowned for her powerful installations and multimedia works that address social and environmental issues. Her thought-provoking creations have garnered international acclaim and sparked important dialogues on various global concerns.

Data source

The first name data used on this page comes from the Social Security Administration (SSA). They've been collecting data on baby names since 1880.

The history and meaning of the name Ima was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

If you have a correction or suggestion to improve the history of Ima, please contact us.

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