Tama is a Japanese given name of both masculine and feminine usage. It's derived from the kanji 珠, which means "bead" or "pearl." The name Tama can also be written using other kanji characters with similar meanings, such as 玉 (meaning "jewel") or 多摩 (referring to a region in Japan).
The origin of the name Tama is not entirely clear, but it's believed to have been used since ancient times. In Japanese folklore and mythology, there are several tales involving beads or jewels, which may have contributed to the popularity of this name.
One well-known story features the Shichifukujin (Seven Gods of Good Fortune), a group of deities who bring happiness, prosperity, and good luck. Tama-shima, the "Island of Beads," is said to be one of their hiding places during their annual journey around the world on the seventh day of the first lunar month.
Tama has been popular among both commoners and aristocrats throughout Japanese history. Famous individuals with this name include Tama-no-Ya-Susano-o, a Shinto deity from ancient Japan; Tama-no-Iri-Hiko, the legendary 15th Emperor of Japan; and Tama Kawai, a renowned Japanese pianist.
Today, Tama continues to be a beloved choice for parents in Japan, ranking consistently among the top names for newborns. The name's elegance and simplicity have made it appealing across generations, while its positive meanings associated with preciousness and abundance further enhance its attractiveness.
The name Tama has seen a slight increase in popularity over the past six years in the United States. In 2012, there were 6 babies born with this name, whereas in 2018 that number rose to 7. This indicates that while still relatively rare, the name Tama is being chosen more often by parents for their newborns during this period.