Fatima Girl
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
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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)
State | Births | Share |
---|---|---|
NY | 132 | |
CA | 130 | |
TX | 118 | |
IL | 45 | |
WA | 38 | |
FL | 36 | |
OH | 33 | |
GA | 32 | |
VA | 31 | |
MD | 30 | |
PA | 29 | |
NJ | 25 | |
NC | 23 | |
AZ | 21 | |
MN | 20 |
Popularity Over Time (National) — Table
Year | Births |
---|---|
1919 | 6 |
1921 | 5 |
1924 | 5 |
1927 | 5 |
1929 | 7 |
1930 | 7 |
1931 | 7 |
1932 | 6 |
1933 | 5 |
1935 | 6 |
1936 | 6 |
1937 | 6 |
1938 | 10 |
1939 | 9 |
1940 | 9 |
1941 | 6 |
1942 | 5 |
1943 | 11 |
1944 | 10 |
1945 | 12 |
1946 | 11 |
1947 | 23 |
1948 | 11 |
1949 | 27 |
1950 | 17 |
1951 | 19 |
1952 | 38 |
1953 | 20 |
1954 | 38 |
1955 | 36 |
1956 | 22 |
1957 | 26 |
1958 | 34 |
1959 | 31 |
1960 | 43 |
1961 | 24 |
1962 | 59 |
1963 | 51 |
1964 | 47 |
1965 | 53 |
1966 | 45 |
1967 | 74 |
1968 | 81 |
1969 | 88 |
1970 | 91 |
1971 | 97 |
1972 | 107 |
1973 | 149 |
1974 | 151 |
1975 | 193 |
1976 | 156 |
1977 | 158 |
1978 | 171 |
1979 | 210 |
1980 | 211 |
1981 | 223 |
1982 | 244 |
1983 | 203 |
1984 | 246 |
1985 | 225 |
1986 | 225 |
1987 | 268 |
1988 | 293 |
1989 | 294 |
1990 | 362 |
1991 | 324 |
1992 | 360 |
1993 | 421 |
1994 | 402 |
1995 | 385 |
1996 | 422 |
1997 | 495 |
1998 | 512 |
1999 | 750 |
2000 | 1,316 |
2001 | 1,407 |
2002 | 1,288 |
2003 | 1,354 |
2004 | 1,198 |
2005 | 1,422 |
2006 | 1,515 |
2007 | 1,512 |
2008 | 1,391 |
2009 | 1,198 |
2010 | 1,213 |
2011 | 1,129 |
2012 | 1,057 |
2013 | 1,037 |
2014 | 1,013 |
2015 | 1,042 |
2016 | 1,068 |
2017 | 1,037 |
2018 | 916 |
2019 | 980 |
2020 | 908 |
2021 | 824 |
2022 | 905 |
2023 | 895 |
2024 | 972 |