Poonam
Meaningfull moon · Sanskrit
Poonam is an Indian girl name meaning “full moon”, with Sanskrit roots. Sanskrit names are rich in meaning, often drawn from nature, virtues or Hindu tradition. A meaning like this gives a child something to grow into, and a good story to tell when someone asks about their name. It sounds crisp and confident, it's simple to spell and say, and it pairs well with middle names of almost any length.
Did you know?
- GenerationPoonam peaked in 1983, which makes it a Millennial name. The typical Poonam you'd meet today is about 42 years old.
- HistoryPoonam first shows up in US birth records in 1972, the first year at least 5 babies got it. It has been in use for 53 years since.
US births per million girls, 1972–2025
Save adds it to your list. Vote moves it up the top voted names.
Popularity: U.S. Social Security Administration (babies with 5+ births per year).
About the name Poonam
Poonam is a girl name of Indian origin meaning “full moon”. Its two syllables give it an easy rhythm, and the consonant at the end gives it a confident finish. It hit its peak in the 1980s, so it feels familiar without being trendy. It's rarely heard today, so it stands out while still being a real, established name.
Origin:Indian names
More Indian girl names
- Girl name: Maya · illusion
- Girl name: Lyla · night
- Unisex name: Arya · noble
- Girl name: Kali · black
- Girl name: Serena · calm, serene
- Girl name: Mira · wonderful
- Girl name: Amber · amber resin
- Unisex name: Veda · knowledge
Questions about the name Poonam
What does the name Poonam mean?
Poonam means “full moon” and comes from Sanskrit. Names built around “moon” have been loved for generations, and give a child a meaning worth sharing when someone asks about their name. Other girl names with a similar meaning include Luna (“moon”), Selena (“moon”), Aylin (“moon halo”) and Selene (“moon”).
What is the origin of the name Poonam?
Poonam is Indian in origin, and its meaning traces back to Sanskrit. Other Indian names to consider are Maya (“illusion”), Lyla (“night”), Arya (“noble”) and Kali (“black”).
Is Poonam a boy or girl name?
Poonam is a girl name.
How popular is the name Poonam?
Poonam is rare: fewer than 5 US girls got it in 2025, and it was last given to 5 or more in 2008. It peaked at #3,806 in 1983, so it's a name with history that few kids share today.
What names are similar to Poonam?
If you like Poonam, you might also like Luna, Selena, Aylin and Selene.
What should I know before naming my baby Poonam?
Poonam is an Indian girl name meaning “full moon”, with Sanskrit roots. Sanskrit names are rich in meaning, often drawn from nature, virtues or Hindu tradition. A meaning like this gives a child something to grow into, and a good story to tell when someone asks about their name. It sounds crisp and confident, it's simple to spell and say, and it pairs well with middle names of almost any length. Say it out loud with your last name and any middle names you're considering, and check the initials it makes.