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Jamal Boy

Popularity: #749 · Trend: ↘ Falling

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

Jamal Adams is a professional football player best known for his time with the New York Jets and Seattle Seahawks.
Jamal Crawford is a former professional basketball player best known for his time with the Chicago Bulls, New York Knicks, and Los Angeles Clippers.
Jamal Khashoggi was a journalist best known for his work with The Washington Post and his criticism of the Saudi government.
Jamal Murray is a professional basketball player best known for his performances with the Denver Nuggets.
Jamal Wilkes is a former professional basketball player best known for his time with the Los Angeles Lakers and Golden State Warriors.

Sibling suggestions

Similar names

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
19%
FL 19
16%
CA 13
11%
GA 10
9%
NY 10
9%
MI 9
8%
MD 7
6%
LA 6
5%
VA 5
4%
NC 5
4%
OH 5
4%
TN 5
4%

Popularity Over Time (National) — Table

YearBirths
19466
19475
19506
19515
19526
19536
19567
195715
195818
195928
196020
196123
196224
196326
196423
196522
196637
196740
196888
1969255
1970284
1971414
1972434
1973418
1974458
1975470
1976552
1977582
1978553
1979526
1980582
1981523
1982561
1983466
1984517
1985619
1986807
1987988
19881,020
19891,104
19901,112
19911,112
19921,195
19931,246
19941,231
19951,059
1996988
1997835
1998689
1999798
2000726
2001786
2002726
2003655
2004589
2005553
2006514
2007482
2008456
2009410
2010407
2011350
2012345
2013303
2014306
2015330
2016353
2017308
2018305
2019258
2020244
2021267
2022201
2023211
2024175