ཀརྨ

Karma

unisexSanskritBuddhist

Karma is a Buddhist unisex name of Sanskrit, via Tibetan origin, meaning “Action, deed”.

MeaningAction, deed
GenderUnisex
OriginSanskrit, via Tibetan
Written asཀརྨ
PronunciationKAR-mah
TraditionBuddhist
Used inBhutan, Nepal, India, China

Meaning and origin of Karma

Karma is the Sanskrit word for action, and in Indian religions it refers to the law by which deeds shape future experience. In Tibet, Bhutan, Sikkim and among Sherpas, Karma is a common personal name for both men and women, often combined with others, as in Karma Tenzin. The Karmapa, head of the Karma Kagyu school, carries a title built from the word.

Is Karma a Buddhist name?

In Buddhism karma is intentional action and its results; as a Tibetan name it carries a sense of virtuous action and is associated with the Karma Kagyu tradition and the Karmapa.

How popular is Karma?

Common in Bhutan and among Tibetans; used rarely in the West as a word-name.

Gifts with the name Karma

As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. We may earn a small commission from these links, at no extra cost to you.

Spellings and variants of Karma

Karmapa

Names similar to Karma

More Buddhist unisex names

Frequently asked questions

What does the name Karma mean?

Karma means 'Action, deed'. It is of Sanskrit, via Tibetan origin.

Is Karma a Buddhist name?

In Buddhism karma is intentional action and its results; as a Tibetan name it carries a sense of virtuous action and is associated with the Karma Kagyu tradition and the Karmapa.

How do you pronounce Karma?

Karma is pronounced KAR-mah.

Is Karma a boy or girl name?

Karma is used for both boys and girls.

Updated October 2026. Spotted a mistake? Tell us.