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Fatima Girl

Popularity: #294 · Trend: ↘ Falling

Origin(s)

PronunciationFAH-tee-mah / /ˈfɑː.tɪ.mə/

Arabic; Spanish

Meaning

Arabic: 'one who is captivating'; Spanish: 'the one who is nourished'

Historical & Cultural Background

The name Fatima has its roots in Arabic, deriving from the word "فاطمة" (Fāṭimah), which means "one who weans an infant" or "the abstainer." The name is historically significant in Islamic culture, particularly associated with Fatimah bint Muhammad, the daughter of the Prophet Muhammad and his wife Khadijah. She is revered in both Sunni and Shia traditions, often regarded as a symbol of purity and maternal devotion. The name entered the Western lexicon through various cultural exchanges, particularly during the period of the Moorish presence in Spain from the 8th to the 15th centuries, where Arabic influence permeated the local languages and cultures.

Fatimah's prominence in Islamic history is marked by her role as a key figure in the early Muslim community, and her legacy is celebrated through various religious observances and literature. The 7th century saw the compilation of hadiths (sayings of the Prophet Muhammad) that include references to her life and virtues, further solidifying her status. In the 20th century, the name gained additional resonance through the establishment of various cultural and religious institutions named in her honor, reflecting her enduring significance.

Culturally, Fatima is associated with themes of compassion, strength, and resilience. In many Islamic societies, the name is often linked to maternal figures and is celebrated for its historical and spiritual connotations. The name has also inspired various diminutive forms and variations across cultures, such as Fatoumata in West Africa and Fátima in Portuguese-speaking countries. This cultural adaptability highlights the name's broad appeal and its deep-rooted connections to significant historical narratives.

Trend Summary

Fatima has seen consistent popularity in the United States, particularly among Muslim families.

Similar Names

Variants

  • Fátima
  • Fatma

International Variants

  • Fátima (Spanish)
  • Fátima (Portuguese)
  • Fatma (Turkish)

Famous people named Fatima

Fatima Ali was a chef and television personality best known for Top Chef and her culinary work in New York City.

Fatima Bhutto is a writer and journalist best known for her books Songs of Blood and Sword, The Shadow of the Crescent Moon, and Whispers of the Desert.

Fatima Jibrell is a humanitarian and activist best known for her work with African Development Solutions and her advocacy for women's rights in Somalia.

Fatima Sana Shaikh is an actress best known for Dangal, Thugs of Hindostan, and Ajeeb Daastaans.

Fictional characters named Fatima

Sibling Suggestions

U.S. Historical Usage

The name Fatima was first seen in the United States in 1919. Fatima has ranked as high as #442 nationally, which occurred in 2006, and has been most popular in California, Texas, New York, Illinois, and New Jersey. In the past 5 years the name Fatima has been trending down compared to the previous 5 years.

Popularity Over Time (National)

Top States for Fatima (2024)

StateBirthsShare
NY 132
15%
CA 130
15%
TX 118
13%
IL 45
5%
WA 38
4%
FL 36
4%
OH 33
4%
GA 32
4%
VA 31
3%
MD 30
3%
PA 29
3%
NJ 25
3%
NC 23
3%
AZ 21
2%
MN 20
2%

Popularity Over Time (National) — Table

YearBirths
19196
19215
19245
19275
19297
19307
19317
19326
19335
19356
19366
19376
193810
19399
19409
19416
19425
194311
194410
194512
194611
194723
194811
194927
195017
195119
195238
195320
195438
195536
195622
195726
195834
195931
196043
196124
196259
196351
196447
196553
196645
196774
196881
196988
197091
197197
1972107
1973149
1974151
1975193
1976156
1977158
1978171
1979210
1980211
1981223
1982244
1983203
1984246
1985225
1986225
1987268
1988293
1989294
1990362
1991324
1992360
1993421
1994402
1995385
1996422
1997495
1998512
1999750
20001,316
20011,407
20021,288
20031,354
20041,198
20051,422
20061,515
20071,512
20081,391
20091,198
20101,213
20111,129
20121,057
20131,037
20141,013
20151,042
20161,068
20171,037
2018916
2019980
2020908
2021824
2022905
2023895
2024972