Jamal Boy
Name Meaning & Origin Pronunciation: jah-MAHL //dʒəˈmɑːl//
Origin: Arabic; Swahili
Meaning: Arabic: handsome; Swahili: noble
Historical & Cultural Background
The name Jamal has its roots in Arabic, derived from the word "jamāl," which means "beauty" or "handsomeness." This etymological origin reflects a broader tradition in Arabic culture where names often carry significant meanings related to positive attributes. The name has been used in various forms across different cultures and languages, but its primary association remains with the Arabic language and its rich literary and poetic heritage.
As Arabic spread through trade and cultural exchange, the name Jamal found its way into other languages and regions, including North Africa and parts of the Middle East. Historically, the name Jamal has been borne by notable figures in Islamic history and literature.
It appears in various texts and has been used by poets and scholars throughout the centuries, contributing to its cultural significance. The name is often linked to the ideals of beauty and grace, which are celebrated in Arabic poetry and storytelling.
During the Islamic Golden Age, which spanned from the 8th to the 14th centuries, names like Jamal were prominent in the cultural lexicon, reflecting the values and aesthetics of the time. In addition to its aesthetic connotations, Jamal has also been associated with various cultural and religious traditions.
In Islamic culture, names are often chosen for their meanings and the virtues they embody. The name Jamal, symbolizing beauty, aligns with the Islamic principle of appreciating the beauty in creation.
This cultural resonance has helped the name endure through generations, maintaining its relevance in various contexts. The diminutive form "Jamil" is also notable, often used interchangeably, and carries similar meanings of beauty and elegance.
Famous people named Jamal
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U.S. Historical Usage
The name Jamal was first seen in the United States in 1946. Jamal has ranked as high as #436 nationally, which occurred in 1993, and has been most popular in New York, California, Florida, Georgia, and Illinois. In the past 5 years the name Jamal has been trending down compared to the previous 5 years.
Popularity Over Time (National)
Top States for Jamal (2024)
| State | Births | Share |
|---|---|---|
| TX | 22 | |
| FL | 19 | |
| CA | 13 | |
| GA | 10 | |
| NY | 10 | |
| MI | 9 | |
| MD | 7 | |
| LA | 6 | |
| VA | 5 | |
| NC | 5 | |
| OH | 5 | |
| TN | 5 |
Popularity Over Time (National) — Table
| Year | Births |
|---|---|
| 1946 | 6 |
| 1947 | 5 |
| 1950 | 6 |
| 1951 | 5 |
| 1952 | 6 |
| 1953 | 6 |
| 1956 | 7 |
| 1957 | 15 |
| 1958 | 18 |
| 1959 | 28 |
| 1960 | 20 |
| 1961 | 23 |
| 1962 | 24 |
| 1963 | 26 |
| 1964 | 23 |
| 1965 | 22 |
| 1966 | 37 |
| 1967 | 40 |
| 1968 | 88 |
| 1969 | 255 |
| 1970 | 284 |
| 1971 | 414 |
| 1972 | 434 |
| 1973 | 418 |
| 1974 | 458 |
| 1975 | 470 |
| 1976 | 552 |
| 1977 | 582 |
| 1978 | 553 |
| 1979 | 526 |
| 1980 | 582 |
| 1981 | 523 |
| 1982 | 561 |
| 1983 | 466 |
| 1984 | 517 |
| 1985 | 619 |
| 1986 | 807 |
| 1987 | 988 |
| 1988 | 1,020 |
| 1989 | 1,104 |
| 1990 | 1,112 |
| 1991 | 1,112 |
| 1992 | 1,195 |
| 1993 | 1,246 |
| 1994 | 1,231 |
| 1995 | 1,059 |
| 1996 | 988 |
| 1997 | 835 |
| 1998 | 689 |
| 1999 | 798 |
| 2000 | 726 |
| 2001 | 786 |
| 2002 | 726 |
| 2003 | 655 |
| 2004 | 589 |
| 2005 | 553 |
| 2006 | 514 |
| 2007 | 482 |
| 2008 | 456 |
| 2009 | 410 |
| 2010 | 407 |
| 2011 | 350 |
| 2012 | 345 |
| 2013 | 303 |
| 2014 | 306 |
| 2015 | 330 |
| 2016 | 353 |
| 2017 | 308 |
| 2018 | 305 |
| 2019 | 258 |
| 2020 | 244 |
| 2021 | 267 |
| 2022 | 201 |
| 2023 | 211 |
| 2024 | 175 |