Karima Girl
Name Meaning & Origin Pronunciation: kah-REE-mah //kəˈriː.mə//
Origin: Arabic; Swahili
Meaning: Arabic: Generous; Swahili: One who is generous
Historical & Cultural Background
The name Karima has its roots in Arabic, derived from the word "karīm," which means "generous" or "noble." This term has been used in various forms throughout the Arabic-speaking world and is often associated with positive attributes such as kindness and benevolence. The name Karima can be traced back to the early Islamic period, where it was used to denote women of high moral character and generosity, reflecting the cultural values of the time.
The name has also been linked to the Quran, where the concept of generosity is highly esteemed, further embedding its significance in Islamic culture. Historically, the name Karima has been borne by various notable figures in Islamic history, including scholars and poets who contributed to the rich tapestry of Arabic literature.
During the medieval period, the name became more widely recognized as Islamic culture flourished, particularly in regions such as North Africa and the Middle East. The spread of Islam in the 7th century played a crucial role in the dissemination of Arabic names, including Karima, across diverse cultures and languages, leading to its adoption in various forms in different regions.
Culturally, the name Karima resonates with themes of generosity and nobility, which are highly valued in many societies. It is often associated with the virtues of hospitality and kindness, qualities that are celebrated in both familial and communal contexts.
The name may also have diminutive forms or variations, such as Karam, which carry similar meanings and are used in various cultural settings. Overall, the enduring appeal of the name Karima can be attributed to its positive connotations and the cultural significance it holds within Islamic tradition.
Famous people named Karima
Fictional characters named Karima
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U.S. Historical Usage
The name Karima was first seen in the United States in 1967. Karima has ranked as high as #1063 nationally, which occurred in 1979, and has been most popular in New York, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, California, and Georgia. In the past 5 years the name Karima has been trending down compared to the previous 5 years.
Popularity Over Time (National)
Top States for Karima (2012)
| State | Births | Share |
|---|---|---|
| CA | 5 |
Popularity Over Time (National) — Table
| Year | Births |
|---|---|
| 1967 | 8 |
| 1969 | 5 |
| 1970 | 8 |
| 1971 | 14 |
| 1972 | 35 |
| 1973 | 33 |
| 1974 | 42 |
| 1975 | 41 |
| 1976 | 60 |
| 1977 | 47 |
| 1978 | 46 |
| 1979 | 63 |
| 1980 | 41 |
| 1981 | 31 |
| 1982 | 33 |
| 1983 | 28 |
| 1984 | 36 |
| 1985 | 18 |
| 1986 | 19 |
| 1987 | 29 |
| 1988 | 21 |
| 1989 | 37 |
| 1990 | 45 |
| 1991 | 42 |
| 1992 | 34 |
| 1993 | 30 |
| 1994 | 38 |
| 1995 | 38 |
| 1996 | 25 |
| 1997 | 21 |
| 1998 | 24 |
| 1999 | 27 |
| 2000 | 21 |
| 2001 | 23 |
| 2002 | 25 |
| 2003 | 34 |
| 2004 | 25 |
| 2005 | 22 |
| 2006 | 20 |
| 2007 | 17 |
| 2008 | 14 |
| 2009 | 16 |
| 2010 | 22 |
| 2011 | 13 |
| 2012 | 18 |
| 2013 | 16 |
| 2014 | 19 |
| 2015 | 11 |
| 2016 | 15 |
| 2017 | 16 |
| 2018 | 13 |
| 2019 | 14 |
| 2020 | 18 |
| 2021 | 14 |
| 2022 | 12 |
| 2023 | 13 |
| 2024 | 10 |