From Greek pneuma, meaning "breath," "spirit," or "soul."
Pneuma comes directly from Greek, meaning "breath," "spirit," or "soul." It is one of those words that carries immense philosophical and religious weight, moving through classical thought, Christian theology, and later spiritual language.
As a name, it feels almost elemental, as though it names the invisible principle that animates life. Because of its meaning, Pneuma has a rare, elevated quality. It sounds ancient and conceptual rather than familiar or casual. That makes it striking as a given name: Pneuma is less a decorative choice than a word of essence, a name that seems to point straight at life itself.