Shakirah Girl
Name Meaning & Origin Pronunciation: sha-KEER-ah /ʃəˈkɪərə/
Origin: Arabic; Swahili
Meaning: Arabic: grateful; Swahili: one who is thankful
Historical & Cultural Background
The name Shakirah has its roots in Arabic, derived from the word "shakir," which means "thankful" or "grateful." The feminine form, Shakirah, embodies the same essence of gratitude and appreciation. The name has been adopted into various cultures, often reflecting the values of thankfulness and humility that are significant in many societies.
The transition of the name into English-speaking contexts likely occurred through the influence of Arabic culture and language, particularly during periods of trade and cultural exchange, such as the Middle Ages when Arabic scholarship was highly regarded in Europe. Historically, the concept of gratitude has been a prominent theme in various religious texts and traditions.
In Islamic culture, the notion of being thankful is deeply embedded in the faith, with the Quran emphasizing gratitude as a virtue. This cultural significance has contributed to the name's endurance across generations.
While specific historical figures named Shakirah may not be widely documented, the name's roots in a language that has influenced many others, including Persian and Turkish, highlight its broader cultural resonance. The name Shakirah, while not as commonly referenced in historical texts as some other names, carries with it a sense of dignity and moral virtue.
It aligns with the values of many communities that prioritize gratitude as a fundamental aspect of character. The name may also be associated with various diminutive forms or variations, such as Shakira, which have appeared in different cultures, further illustrating the adaptability and enduring nature of the name.
Overall, Shakirah represents a rich linguistic and cultural heritage that emphasizes the importance of thankfulness.
Sibling suggestions
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U.S. Historical Usage
The name Shakirah was first seen in the United States in 1976. Shakirah has ranked as high as #1199 nationally, which occurred in 1992, and has been most popular in New Jersey, Pennsylvania, New York, Georgia, and North Carolina. In the past 5 years the name Shakirah has been trending down compared to the previous 5 years.
Popularity Over Time (National)
Top States for Shakirah (1996)
| State | Births | Share |
|---|---|---|
| NY | 6 | |
| PA | 6 |
Popularity Over Time (National) — Table
| Year | Births |
|---|---|
| 1976 | 5 |
| 1977 | 9 |
| 1978 | 12 |
| 1979 | 12 |
| 1980 | 27 |
| 1981 | 13 |
| 1982 | 22 |
| 1983 | 23 |
| 1984 | 29 |
| 1985 | 15 |
| 1986 | 31 |
| 1987 | 18 |
| 1988 | 20 |
| 1989 | 26 |
| 1990 | 28 |
| 1991 | 26 |
| 1992 | 42 |
| 1993 | 41 |
| 1994 | 39 |
| 1995 | 32 |
| 1996 | 38 |
| 1997 | 25 |
| 1998 | 21 |
| 1999 | 21 |
| 2000 | 25 |
| 2001 | 25 |
| 2002 | 35 |
| 2003 | 26 |
| 2004 | 18 |
| 2005 | 20 |
| 2006 | 15 |
| 2007 | 13 |
| 2008 | 10 |
| 2009 | 10 |
| 2010 | 7 |
| 2011 | 7 |
| 2012 | 5 |
| 2013 | 6 |
| 2016 | 5 |
| 2018 | 6 |