Name: Paloma
Meaning: dove, pigeon
Origin: Spanish
Current Popularity: #912
Paloma made its way into the top 1000 baby names in the US in 1993. It peaked in popularity in 2010, but since it’s never been a popular name in the US, it doesn’t feel behind-the-curve in the least.
Nickname Potential: Loma, Lo, Pali, Polly
Associations: The most famous Paloma is Paloma Picasso, the French and Spanish fashion designer and youngest daughter of Pablo Picasso. Being associated with a Picasso gives the unusual name an artistic and creative feel. English singer/songwriter Paloma Faith is another contemporary namesake. And then there’s the grapefruity, tequila-based cocktail…
Similar Names: Isolde, Chiara, Dahlia, Wren, Penelope, Luciana, Camila, Valentina, Imogen, Isobel, Pilar, Marisol, Cybele
Why We Love It: This name screams “it girl”: Paloma is international, sophisticated, artsy, and mysterious. Its Spanish roots make us think of walking along the beaches on Andalucia’s Costa del Sol or smelling the orange blossoms that grow on the grounds of the Alhambra. Uncommon but not too obscure, Paloma is a name that will certainly be noticed, in a good way. The -oma ending is a little something different from the -ya and -ia names we’re seeing a lot of.
Who Might Like It: There’s so much to love about Paloma! We think it resonates most with parents who are adventurous and fashion forward. Parents who are into the “animal-inspired” baby name trend might find fresh inspiration in Paloma (we like it as an alternative to the fast-rising Wren). Paloma also carries the connotations of the dove with it. The dove has religious significance, and is a symbol of peace, so those wanting a name with this sweet meaning may find Paloma appealing.