Meaning & Origin
A taxonomic genus within the family Phrynosomatidae – fringe-toed lizards.
Uma is a girl's baby name of Sanskrit origin, meaning 'light,' 'tranquility,' or 'nation' — one of the names of the goddess Parvati, divine consort of Shiva in Hindu tradition. Uma is venerated as a goddess of power, love, and maternal protection.
In Western culture, actress Uma Thurman — who took her unusual name from the Hindu goddess — brought this name to global attention. The combination of deep Sanskrit roots, a divine meaning, and Uma Thurman's iconic performances in films like Pulp Fiction and Kill Bill has made Uma a name that feels both mythologically rich and distinctly cool.