Melek Girl
Name Meaning & Origin Pronunciation: MEH-lek //ˈmɛlɛk//
Origin: Turkish; Arabic
Meaning: Turkish: angel; Arabic: messenger
Historical & Cultural Background
The name Melek has its roots in the Arabic language, where it is derived from the word "malak," meaning "angel" or "messenger." This term has its origins in Semitic languages, with cognates found in Hebrew, where "mal'akh" also signifies an angel or messenger, and in Aramaic. The transition of the name into English likely occurred through the influence of Arabic culture and language during the medieval period, particularly through translations of religious texts and interactions during the Crusades.
Historically, the concept of angels as divine messengers is significant in various religious traditions, including Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. In Islamic tradition, angels are considered beings created from light, serving various roles, including delivering revelations to prophets.
The name Melek, therefore, carries a weight of spiritual significance, often associated with purity and divine communication. Notably, the name appears in various forms across cultures, including as "Malik" in Arabic, which means "king," further enriching its connotations.
Culturally, the name Melek resonates within Islamic communities, where it is often bestowed upon girls to symbolize grace and divine favor. The name's association with angels lends it a sense of protection and benevolence, making it a meaningful choice for families.
Additionally, diminutive forms or variations of the name may exist in different cultures, reflecting local linguistic adaptations while retaining the core meaning related to angelic qualities. Overall, Melek embodies a rich tapestry of linguistic and cultural heritage, symbolizing a connection to the divine.
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U.S. Historical Usage
The name Melek was first seen in the United States in 1987. Melek has ranked as high as #1295 nationally, which occurred in 2022, and has been most popular in Texas, California, New York, Florida, and Georgia. In the past 5 years the name Melek has been trending up compared to the previous 5 years.
Popularity Over Time (National)
Top States for Melek (2024)
| State | Births | Share |
|---|---|---|
| TX | 10 | |
| CA | 8 |
Popularity Over Time (National) — Table
| Year | Births |
|---|---|
| 1987 | 5 |
| 2004 | 5 |
| 2005 | 7 |
| 2007 | 10 |
| 2008 | 13 |
| 2009 | 21 |
| 2010 | 15 |
| 2011 | 13 |
| 2012 | 20 |
| 2013 | 17 |
| 2014 | 10 |
| 2015 | 17 |
| 2016 | 15 |
| 2017 | 16 |
| 2018 | 19 |
| 2019 | 16 |
| 2020 | 15 |
| 2021 | 97 |
| 2022 | 98 |
| 2023 | 57 |
| 2024 | 56 |