THE 2026 FIELD GUIDE IS HERERead the trend report

Hausa names.

781 verified names from Nigeria and Niger — each with its meaning, its sound, and its traditional spelling.

A

AafiyagirlHealth, safety, peace, and well-being./ah-fee-YAH/AatifboyCompassionate and tender-hearted/AA-tif/AbbaboyIndigenous Hausa usage: father or respected elder, expressing affection and honor/AB-ba/AbbasboyA dignified, steadfast man; traditionally associated with a lion/AB-bas/AbdulatifboyServant of the Gentle and Kind God/ab-dool-ah-TEEF/Abdulazimboy[Arabic-derived] Servant of the Magnificent God/ab-dool-a-ZEEM/AbdulazizboyA servant of the Almighty/ab-dool-ah-ZEEZ/AbdulbariboyServant of the Creator/ab-dool-BAH-ree/Abdulbasirboy[Arabic-derived] Servant of the All-Seeing God/ab-dool-ba-SEER/AbdulbasitboyA servant of the One who brings ease and abundance/ab-dool-bah-SEET/AbdulfattahboyServant of God, the One who opens the way and brings relief/ab-dool-fat-TAH/Abdulghafurboy[Arabic-derived] Servant of the Most Forgiving God/ab-dool-gha-FOOR/AbdulghaniboyServant of God, the One who is rich beyond need/ab-dool-GHAH-nee/AbdulhadiboyA servant guided by God and helping others find their way/ab-dool-HAH-dee/AbdulhafizboyServant of God, the One who protects and preserves/ab-dool-ha-FEEZ/AbdulhakeemboyServant of the All-Wise/ab-dool-ha-KEEM/AbdulhamidboyA servant devoted to the One worthy of all praise/ab-dool-hah-MEED/AbdulhannanboyA devoted servant of the Most Compassionate/ab-dul-han-NAAN/Abdulhayyboy[Arabic-derived] Servant of the Ever-Living God/ab-dool-HAY/AbduljabbarboyServant of the Compeller/ab-dool-jab-BAHR/AbduljaleelboyServant of the Majestic One/ab-dool-ja-LEEL/Abduljamilboy[Arabic-derived] Servant of the Beautiful God; a name celebrating beauty and grace/ab-dool-ja-MEEL/AbdulkadirboyServant of the All-Powerful/ab-dool-kah-DEER/AbdulkarimboyA servant known for generosity and kindness/ab-dool-kah-REEM/AbdulKhalilboyServant of a close friend or intimate companion; Khalil means “friend.” It is not normally a compound invoking a divine name./ab-dool-kha-LEEL/Abdulkudusboy[Arabic-derived] Servant of the Most Holy God/ab-dool-KOO-doos/AbdullahiboyA servant devoted to God/ab-dool-LAH-hee/AbdulmajidboyA servant devoted to the glorious and exalted God/ab-dool-mah-JEED/AbdulmalikboyA servant devoted to the supreme King/ab-dool-mah-LEEK/AbdulmubinboyServant of the Clear or Manifest One./ab-dool-moo-BEEN/AbdulmuizboyServant of al-Mu'min, the Giver of security and faith./ab-dool-MOO-iz/AbdulmuminboyServant of al-Mu'min, the Giver of security and faith./ab-dool-moo-MEEN/Abdulmunimboy[Arabic-derived] Servant of the One who graciously bestows blessings/ab-dool-moo-NEEM/AbdulmuttalibboyServant of Muttalib. It is especially associated with Abd al-Muttalib, the Prophet Muhammad's grandfather./ab-dool-MUT-ta-lib/AbdulqayyumboyServant of the Self-Sustaining One/ab-dool-kai-YOOM/AbdulrahmanboyA servant held in the mercy of God/ab-dool-rah-MAN/AbdulraufboyServant of the Most Kind/ab-dool-RAUF/AbdulrazakboyServant of the One who provides abundantly/ab-dool-ra-ZAK/AbdulsalamboyA servant of peace and well-being/ab-dool-sah-LAM/AbdulsamadboyServant of al-Samad, the Self-Sufficient One and Eternal Refuge./ab-dool-sah-MAD/Abdulwadudboy[Arabic-derived] Servant of the Most Loving God; a warm name associated with compassion/ab-dool-wa-DOOD/AbdulwahabboyA servant grateful for God’s many gifts/ab-dool-wah-HAB/AbdulwahidboyServant of the One God/ab-dool-WA-hide/AbdulwaliboyServant of God, the Protector/ab-dool-WAH-lee/AbdulwasiuboyServant of al-Wasi', the All-Encompassing, Vast One./ab-dool-wa-SEE-oo/Abdurrahimboy[Arabic-derived] Servant of the Merciful God; a name rich in compassion and tenderness/ab-door-ra-HEEM/AbdussamadboyServant of the Eternal Refuge/ab-doos-sa-MAD/AbeergirlA fragrant scent or perfume/a-BEER/AbidagirlArabic-derived: a woman devoted to worship/AH-bee-dah/AbubakarboyA cherished traditional Muslim name associated with Abu Bakr, the first caliph/ah-boo-bah-KAR/AdamuboyA timeless name symbolising humanity and a new beginning/ah-DAH-moo/AdibagirlArabic-derived: cultivated, well-mannered, and learned/ah-DEE-bah/AdilagirlArabic-derived — A fair-minded and just woman/ah-DEE-lah/AdiluboyArabic-derived — A fair-minded and just person/ah-DEE-loo/AdnanboyTraditionally the name of an ancestor of the northern Arabs; from an Arabic root associated with settling or abiding./ad-NAHN/AdoboyA son who beautifies and brings joy to the family/AH-doh/AfdhalboyBetter, superior, or best./AF-dhal/AfifboyChaste, modest, and honorable/ah-FEEF/AfifagirlArabic-derived: pure-hearted and virtuous/ah-FEE-fah/AfnangirlBranches, boughs, or shoots of a tree./af-NAHN/AfragirlArabic-derived: radiant white or fair/AF-rah/AhmadboyOne who is greatly praised/AH-mahd/AhmaduboyThe most praised; a beloved Muslim name associated with the Prophet Muhammad/ah-MAH-doo/AhsanboyThe best, finest, or most beautiful/AH-san/AishagirlFull of life and vitality/EYE-sha/Akramboy[Arabic-derived] Most generous and noble; a beautiful wish for a gracious character/AK-ram/Albarkaboy or girlA blessing and a source of goodness/al-BAR-kah/AlhamisboyA boy born on Thursday./al-hah-MEES/AlhassanboyA good-hearted and admirable son/al-hah-SAN/Alheriboy or girlGoodness, kindness, and a life filled with what is good/al-HEH-ree/AlimagirlArabic-derived: a knowledgeable and wise woman/ah-LEE-mah/AliyagirlA girl whose character and hopes rise high/ah-LEE-ya/AliyuboyA noble child of high character/ah-LEE-yoo/AlkaliboyJudge; one associated with fairness, wisdom, and sound decisions/al-KA-lee/AmalgirlA hopeful child who brings promise for the future/ah-MAL/AmanagirlA child who is a precious trust/ah-MAH-na/AmanigirlWishes, hopes, and aspirations/ah-MAH-nee/AminagirlA trustworthy child who brings a sense of peace/ah-MEE-na/AminatugirlArabic-derived — A trustworthy and faithful woman/ah-MEE-nah-too/Aminciboy or girlIndigenous Hausa: peace and mutual trust, a heartfelt wish for a peaceful life/ah-MIN-chee/AminuboyA dependable and honest man/ah-MEE-noo/AminullahboyTrustee of God; the trustworthy or faithful one of God./ah-meen-ool-LAH/AmirboyArabic-derived name meaning prince, commander, or respected leader./ah-MEER/AmiruboyA child with natural leadership and responsibility/ah-MEE-roo/AmmarboyOne who builds, inhabits, or maintains; also associated with being long-lived and flourishing./am-MAR/AnabgirlGrapes./AH-nab/AnasboyA warm and affectionate companion/AH-nas/AnfalgirlVoluntary gifts or additional bounty; in Qur'anic usage, spoils of war./AN-fal/AnisagirlA warm-hearted daughter who brings companionship and comfort/ah-NEE-sa/AnwarboyBrighter, most radiant; also ‘lights’ as a plural form in Arabic./AN-wahr/AnwarullahboyLight of God, or lights of God./an-war-ool-LAH/AqilboyWise, thoughtful, and intelligent/ah-KEEL/AqilagirlArabic-derived: intelligent and discerning/ah-KEE-lah/AreebagirlArabic-derived: intelligent, perceptive, and wise/ah-REE-bah/AribahgirlIntelligent, skilled, eloquent, or discerning./ah-REE-bah/ArifboyKnowledgeable and perceptive/ah-REEF/ArifagirlArabic-derived: knowledgeable and perceptive/ah-REE-fah/ArwagirlA female mountain goat or ibex; by extension, freshness, beauty, or grace./AR-wah/Arzikiboy or girlBlessed provision and the good things God provides/ar-ZEE-kee/AsabarboyA boy born on Saturday./ah-sah-BAHR/AsabegirlA girl born on Saturday./ah-SAH-beh/AsadboyLion—a strong and courageous child/AH-sad/AsgharboyYounger, smaller, or youngest./AS-ghార్/AsifboyTraditionally associated with Asif, the learned minister of Prophet Sulayman; the name is not literally the Arabic word for ‘wise.’/AA-sif/AsiyagirlArabic-derived: one who brings comfort and healing/ah-SEE-yah/AsmagirlMore exalted, loftier, or more sublime./AS-mah/AsmaugirlA girl destined to rise high and be greatly honoured/AS-mow/AtaullahboyA precious gift from God/ah-tah-ool-LAH/AtikagirlFree, liberated, ancient, or noble./ah-TEE-kah/AtikuboyA child associated with freedom, dignity and nobility/ah-TEE-koo/AtiyagirlA precious gift and blessing/ah-TEE-yah/AtiyyagirlA gift, bestowal, or grant./ah-TEE-yah/AuduboyA beloved traditional Muslim name associated with Prophet Dawud/OW-doo/AutaboyA much-loved youngest child/OW-ta/AuwaluboyA firstborn or a child who opens a new chapter for the family/OW-wah-loo/AwwabboyOne who repeatedly returns to God; deeply repentant./aw-WAB/AyatgirlArabic: signs, verses, or evidences (especially Qur'anic verses); by extension, a sign from God./AH-yat/AymanboyArabic: fortunate, blessed, prosperous; also connected with the right side/right hand./EYE-man/AyubaboyHausa form of Arabic Ayyub, the Qur'anic/Biblical Job, traditionally associated with patience and steadfastness./ah-YOO-bah/AyyubboyArabic Qur'anic form of Job; the prophet is renowned for patience and endurance in trials./EYE-yoob/AzharboyArabic: brighter, more radiant, or flourishing./AZ-har/AzizboyArabic-derived name meaning precious, powerful, and greatly cherished./ah-ZEEZ/AzizagirlA dearly loved and precious daughter/ah-ZEE-za/

B

BababoyA beloved father or respected elder/BAH-bah/BabangidaboyA respected head of the household and protector of the family/bah-bahn-GEE-dah/BadamasiboyA traditional Hausa name with a strong, established presence in the region/bah-dah-MAH-see/BadaruboyFull moon; radiant, complete, and deeply cherished/bah-DAH-roo/BadiagirlArabic Badīʿa: wonderful, extraordinary, unique, or admirable./bah-DEE-ah/BadrboyA radiant child whose presence lights up the family/BAH-dr/BadriyagirlRadiant and beautiful like the full moon/bad-REE-yah/Badrudeenboy[Arabic-derived] Full moon of the faith; a name suggesting radiance and spiritual beauty/bad-roo-DEEN/BakoboyA welcomed guest and cherished newcomer/BAH-koh/BalaboyA traditional Hausa name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story/BAH-la/BalarabagirlA daughter born on Wednesday, a day-name carrying blessings for her life/bah-lah-RAH-bah/BalarabeboyA name honoring Arab heritage and the long Islamic connections of Hausa society/bah-lah-RAH-beh/BaraagirlArabic: innocence, freedom from blame, or being cleared of wrongdoing./bah-RAH/Barakaboy or girlA child who is a blessing and brings blessings to the family/bah-RAH-kah/BarauboyA good-hearted person who is free from blame/BAH-row/BardeboyA brave champion with strength and courage/BAR-deh/BariragirlA girl known for goodness, devotion, and a gentle character/bah-REE-rah/BasharuboyAn established Hausa male name, commonly understood as related to Arabic Bashir: bearer of good news or glad tidings./bah-SHAH-roo/BashirboyOne who brings joyful news and hope/bah-SHEER/BashiragirlA girl who brings joy, hope, and good news/bah-SHEE-rah/BasiragirlA wise girl with clear understanding and good judgment/bah-SEE-rah/BasmagirlA warm smile or cheerful expression/BAS-ma/BatureboyA distinctive traditional Hausa name associated with the wider world/bah-TOO-reh/BawaboyA traditional name expressing humility and service to others/BAH-wah/BelloboyA traditional Hausa name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story/BEL-loh/BilalboyA cherished Islamic name associated with Bilal ibn Rabah and the refreshing gift of water/bee-LAHL/BilkisugirlA queenly name recalling the wise and renowned Queen of Sheba/bil-KEE-soo/BintagirlA beloved daughter and treasured child/BIN-tah/BubaboyA cherished traditional Muslim name conveying trust and respect/BOO-bah/BuhariboyA respected Islamic name linked with learning and religious scholarship/boo-HAH-ree/BukarboyA respected Islamic name associated with Abu Bakr, the trusted companion/BOO-kar/BurhanboyArabic-derived: clear proof, evidence, or a shining sign of truth/boor-HAHN/BushragirlA joyful blessing and bearer of happy news/BOOSH-rah/ButhainagirlA beautiful, delicate woman/boo-THAY-na/

C

D

Dadaboy or girlA traditional Hausa descriptive name associated with a child born with tightly curled or matted hair/DAH-dah/Dadiboy or girlA delightful child who brings pleasure and happiness/DAH-dee/DageboyHausa: perseverance, persistence, or sustained effort./DAH-geh/DahiruboyArabic-derived form of Tahir, meaning “pure” or “virtuous”/dah-HEE-roo/DalalgirlArabic-derived: charm, grace, and gentle appeal/DAH-lal/DalhaboyArabic-derived Hausa form of Talha, the name of a fruitful tree/DAHL-hah/Daminaboy or girlAn indigenous Hausa name drawn from damina, the rainy season—a hopeful image of life-giving rain/dah-MEE-nah/DanazumiboyHausa ɗan azumi: child/son of the fast, commonly referring to a boy born during the fasting month of Ramadan./dan-ah-ZOO-mee/DanbababoyA son closely tied to his father and family line/dahn-BAH-bah/DandagoboyA name that keeps the father’s or ancestor’s name alive/dahn-DAH-goh/DanganaboyIndigenous Hausa: Steadfast, grounded, and able to endure life’s hardships./dan-GAH-nah/DaniagirlArabic: near, close, or brought near./DAH-nee-ah/DanjumaboyA child born on Friday; literally “child of Friday”/dan-JOO-mah/DanladiboyA child born on Sunday; literally “child of Sunday”/dan-LAH-dee/DanlamiboyA traditional Hausa name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story/dan-LAH-mee/DanmarayaboyA name preserving the memory and identity of an earlier family member/dahn-mah-RYE-ah/DanmusaboyA traditional Hausa compound name meaning Musa's son/dan-MOO-sah/DantaniboyA son who proudly carries forward the family line/dahn-TAH-nee/DanyalboyA prophetic name corresponding to Daniel/DAN-yal/DarajagirlHonor, dignity, and respected standing/dah-RAH-jah/DariyagirlA warm indigenous Hausa name associated with laughter, happiness, and joy/dah-REE-yah/DaudaboyArabic-derived Hausa form of David, meaning “beloved”/DOW-dah/DauramagirlThe legendary queen of Daura in Hausa origin tradition./dow-RAH-ma/DijegirlA traditional Hausa name for a girl born after twins/DEE-jeh/DikkoboyA traditional Hausa name for a boy born after twins/DEE-koh/DodoboyA boy born after twins; this usage is especially associated with particular Hausa-speaking communities./DOH-doh/Dogoboy or girlA traditional Hausa descriptive name meaning “tall” or “long”/DOH-goh/DuagirlArabic-derived: supplication or prayer./DOO-ah/DunaboyA boy born after twins in some Hausa naming traditions./DOO-nah/DuniyagirlAn indigenous Hausa name meaning “the world” or “life in this world”/doo-NEE-yah/

E

F

FadilboyA virtuous, excellent person/FAH-dil/FadilagirlA virtuous and admirable woman/fah-DEE-lah/FadiluboyA virtuous or excellent person/fah-DEE-loo/FadimatugirlA cherished Muslim name, honoring Fatima/fah-dee-MAH-too/FadwagirlArabic-derived: self-sacrifice, ransom, or redemption./FAD-wah/FahadboyA strong, swift and courageous person/FAH-had/FahimboyAn intelligent and perceptive person/fah-HEEM/FahimagirlAn intelligent and perceptive woman/fah-HEE-mah/FaisalboyA decisive and clear-minded person/FAY-sal/FaizagirlA successful woman who triumphs in life/FAH-ee-zah/FakhruddinboyArabic-derived: pride or glory of the faith/religion./fakh-rood-DEEN/FalmatagirlA cherished Muslim name, honoring Fatima/fal-MAH-tah/FarahgirlJoy and happiness/FAH-rah/FarhanboyA joyful, happy child/FAR-han/FarhanagirlA joyful and cheerful girl/far-HAH-nah/Fariboy or girlA bright, fair or radiant child/FAH-ree/FaridboyOne of a kind and truly precious/fa-REED/FaridagirlA one-of-a-kind and precious daughter/fah-REE-dah/FarihagirlA joyful and cheerful daughter/fah-REE-hah/FarkoboyA firstborn or a child expected to take a leading place/FAR-koh/FaruqboyA discerning person who stands for what is right/fah-ROOK/FatagirlA daughter who brings hope and hopeful expectations/FAH-tah/FatanagirlMy hope and the promise of a bright future/fa-TA-na/FathiboyArabic-derived: A hopeful beginning that opens the way to triumph./FAH-thee/FathullahboyArabic-derived: victory, opening, or divine aid from God./fat-hool-LAH/FatigirlA beloved, familiar form of Fatima/FAH-tee/FatihagirlA name associated with new beginnings and the opening chapter of the Quran/fah-TEE-hah/FatimagirlA cherished and highly respected Muslim name/fah-TEE-mah/FatiyagirlA hopeful name for victory, success and new beginnings/fah-TEE-yah/FauziboyA successful and victorious person/FAW-zee/FauziyagirlA woman blessed with success and victory/faw-ZEE-yah/FawziboyArabic-derived: One who achieves victory and lasting success./FAW-zee/FawziyagirlArabic-derived: A victorious and successful daughter./fow-ZEE-yah/FuregirlIndigenous Hausa: a flower, suggesting beauty and blossoming/FOO-reh/Furqanboy or girlA name expressing moral clarity and the ability to recognize truth/foor-KAHN/

G

H

HabibboyA beloved and cherished child/ha-BEEB/HabibagirlA dearly loved and cherished daughter/ha-BEE-bah/HabibuboyA beloved and treasured son/ha-BEE-boo/HabibullahboyArabic-derived: beloved of God./ha-beeb-ool-LAH/HadiboyA son who guides others with wisdom and care/HAH-dee/HadizagirlA respected and trustworthy woman/ha-DEE-zah/HafizboyOne blessed with a strong memory and devotion/ha-FEEZ/HafizagirlA devoted and thoughtful daughter with a retentive mind/ha-FEE-zah/HafizullahboyArabic-derived: guardian/preserver of God; in name usage, often understood as one under God's protection./ha-feez-ool-LAH/HafsagirlArabic-derived: young lioness./HAF-sah/HafsatgirlA young woman of dignity and strength/HAF-sat/HajaragirlA resilient and steadfast daughter/ha-JA-rah/HakimagirlArabic-derived — A wise and thoughtful woman/hah-KEE-mah/HakimuboyArabic-derived — A wise and thoughtful person/hah-KEE-moo/Hakuriboy or girlIndigenous Hausa — Patience and calm endurance/hah-KOO-ree/HaliluboyA loyal friend and companion/ha-LEE-loo/HalimboyA gentle, patient, and even-tempered man/hah-LEEM/HalimagirlA gentle, patient, and kind-hearted daughter/ha-LEE-mah/HalimatugirlA patient and tender-hearted daughter/ha-lee-MA-too/HamidboyArabic-derived: praiseworthy; deserving of praise./ha-MEED/HamidagirlA daughter whose goodness brings praise and gratitude/ha-MEE-dah/HamiduboyA son worthy of praise and gratitude/ha-MEE-doo/HamisuboyA son born under a hopeful and memorable day/ha-MEE-soo/HammadboyArabic-derived: one who praises often or repeatedly./ham-MAD/HamzaboyA strong and courageous son/HAM-zah/HanangirlArabic-derived: compassion, tenderness, and loving care/hah-NAHN/HaneengirlArabic-derived: yearning, longing, or nostalgic desire./ha-NEEN/HanifboyA son of sincere faith and upright character/ha-NEEF/HanifagirlA daughter known for sincerity and upright character/ha-NEE-fah/HaniyagirlArabic-derived: joyful and happy/hah-NEE-yah/HarisboyA hardworking son who helps good things grow/HA-ris/HarithboyArabic-derived: cultivator, tiller, or one who works the land./HAH-rith/HarunaboyA respected and steadfast son/ha-ROO-nah/HasanboyA good-natured and beautiful-hearted son/HA-san/HashimboyArabic-derived: generous breaker of bread, traditionally associated with hospitality/HA-shim/HasinagirlArabic-derived: beautiful in character and appearance/hah-SEE-nah/Haskiyaboy or girlA child who grows up valued for honesty and truthfulness/has-KEE-yah/HassanboyA good-hearted and handsome man/HAH-sahn/HassanagirlA good and beautiful-hearted daughter/ha-SAN-ah/HassanatugirlA daughter blessed with goodness and beauty/ha-sa-NAH-too/HauwagirlA life-giving daughter and mother-to-be/HOW-wah/HayatuboyA son who brings vitality and joy to the family/ha-YA-too/HibagirlGift; a present or bestowal./HEE-bah/HidayagirlDivine guidance and a life led toward what is good/hee-DAH-yah/HilalboyCrescent moon; a beautiful sign of hope and new beginnings/hee-LAAL/HilaluboyA son who brings the promise of a bright new beginning/hi-LA-loo/HishamboyGenerous; traditionally associated with generosity./hi-SHAM/HudagirlGuidance; right guidance or the right path./HOO-dah/HusainboyBeautiful, good, or handsome; diminutive form of Hasan./hu-SAIN/HusainiboyA good and handsome-hearted son/hoo-SAI-nee/HusnagirlMost beautiful; best, finest, or most excellent./HOOS-nah/HusseinagirlA daughter of goodness, beauty, and dignity/hoo-SAI-nah/

I

IbrahimboyArabic-derived: a cherished form of Abraham, associated with a father of many nations/ib-rah-HEEM/IbtihajgirlArabic-derived: happiness and delight/ib-tee-HAJ/IbtihalgirlA heartfelt prayer or humble supplication/ib-tee-HAHL/IbtisamgirlSmile; smiling./ib-tee-SAHM/IdrisboyArabic-derived: Idris, a revered prophet associated with wisdom and learning/id-REES/IffatgirlArabic-derived: purity, honor, and modesty/IF-at/IkhlasgirlArabic-derived — Sincerity and wholehearted devotion/ikh-LAHS/Ikramboy or girlArabic-derived: honour and generosity, wishing a child a gracious and respected life/ik-RAHM/IlhamgirlArabic-derived: inspiration, a lovely wish for a child who brings bright ideas and encouragement/il-HAHM/IliyasuboyArabic-derived: Elijah, a revered prophet and servant of God/il-yee-YAH-soo/IlyasboyArabic form of Elijah; traditionally understood as “My God is Yahweh.”/il-YAS/ImadboyA strong support and dependable foundation/ee-MAAD/ImangirlFaith and a trusting heart/ee-MAHN/ImranaboyArabic-derived: a name associated with a blessed and honoured family/im-RAH-nah/InayagirlArabic-derived: care, protection, and divine concern/in-AH-yah/InayatgirlKindness, care, and loving concern for others/in-ah-YAT/InnagirlIndigenous Hausa: mother; an affectionate name evoking maternal love and care/IN-nah/InuwaboyIndigenous Hausa: shade and shelter, a warm wish that a child will bring comfort and protection/in-OO-wah/IqbalboyArabic-derived: good fortune, prosperity, and a hopeful future/ik-BAHL/IqragirlArabic-derived: read or recite, celebrating learning, knowledge, and a love of the word/IK-rah/IrfanboyKnowledge, awareness, or spiritual knowledge/gnosis./ir-FAHN/IsaboyArabic-derived: Jesus, a beloved prophet in Islam/EE-sah/IshaqboyArabic-derived: Isaac, a name connected with joy and a long-awaited blessing/ish-AHK/IsmailboyA name honoring a beloved son and respected ancestor/ees-mah-EEL/IsmailaboyArabic-derived: God hears, a hopeful name for a child whose prayers have been answered/is-my-LAH/IsragirlArabic-derived: the night journey, a name associated with a sacred and wondrous journey/IS-rah/IzzahgirlArabic-derived: honor, dignity, and cherished worth/IZ-ah/

J

JabiruboyArabic-derived: patient and steadfast/jah-BEE-roo/JafaruboyArabic-derived: a respected historical Muslim name/jah-FAH-roo/JalalboyArabic-derived: majesty and greatness/jah-LAHL/JalaluddeenboyArabic-derived: the glory and majesty of faith/jah-lah-loo-DEEN/JalilagirlArabic-derived: noble, majestic, and highly honored/jah-LEE-lah/JaliluboyArabic-derived: noble, majestic, and exalted/jah-LEE-loo/JamalboyBeauty, handsomeness, or grace./ja-MAHL/JamilboyA handsome and gracious man/jah-MEEL/JamilagirlArabic-derived: beautiful and graceful/jah-MEE-lah/JamiluboyArabic-derived: handsome, gracious, and beautiful in character/jah-MEE-loo/JannatgirlArabic-derived: paradise and heavenly joy/JAH-nat/JannatugirlArabic-derived: paradise; a hopeful name wishing its bearer a blessed life/jah-NAH-too/JarmaiboyIndigenous Hausa and title-derived: a traditional name associated with noble rank and leadership/jar-MY/JarumagirlIndigenous Hausa: A courageous daughter who faces life boldly./jah-ROO-mah/JarumiboyIndigenous Hausa: A brave son with the heart of a hero./jah-ROO-mee/JatauboyIndigenous Hausa: lion-hearted, brave, and strong/jah-TOW/JibriluboyArabic-derived: a form of the name of the angel Gabriel/JEE-bree-loo/JibrinboyArabic-derived: a form of the name of the angel Gabriel/JEE-brin/JiddagirlArabic-derived term/name meaning grandmother; it is not indigenous Hausa in origin./JID-da/JumaboyArabic-derived and Hausa-used: connected with Friday, a day of blessing and community/JOO-mah/JumanagirlArabic-derived: a precious pearl/joo-MAH-nah/JumareboyHausa-used: associated with Friday, a blessed day/joo-MAH-reh/JummaigirlArabic-derived and Hausa-used: a girl associated with Friday, a blessed day of gathering/joom-MY/JunaiduboyArabic-derived: a steadfast and devoted servant of God/joo-NY-doo/JuriyagirlIndigenous Hausa — Patience and the strength to persevere/joo-REE-yah/JuwairiyagirlArabic-derived: a revered and honored woman in Islamic tradition/joo-WAIR-ee-yah/

K

Kabiruboy(Arabic-derived) Great, distinguished, and noble/kah-BEE-roo/Kadiruboy(Arabic-derived) Capable, strong, and able to accomplish great things/kah-DEE-roo/KainatgirlThe universe; creation or the cosmos./KAI-nat/Kaltumegirl(Arabic-derived) A cherished traditional name associated with dignity and beauty/kal-TOO-meh/KamalboyArabic-derived: completeness, excellence, and maturity of character/ka-MAHL/Kamaluboy(Arabic-derived) Perfection and excellence/kah-MAH-loo/KamaluddinboyPerfection or completeness of the religion/faith./ka-mah-loo-DEEN/Kamiluboy(Arabic-derived) Complete, whole, and fulfilled/kah-MEE-loo/KandegirlThe second-born of a pair of twins./KAHN-deh/KarimboyArabic-derived name meaning generous, noble, and honorable./kah-REEM/Karimagirl(Arabic-derived) Generous-hearted, gracious, and noble/kah-REE-mah/Karimuboy(Arabic-derived) Generous, honorable, and kind-hearted/kah-REE-moo/Kariyaboy or girlProtection, defense, or safeguarding./kah-REE-yah/Kasimboy(Arabic-derived) One who shares generously and fairly/KAH-seem/KaunagirlA beloved child surrounded by love/KOW-nah/Kausargirl(Arabic-derived) Abundance, blessings, and overflowing goodness/KOW-sar/Kawuboy(Indigenous Hausa) A respected family name expressing the honor and protection associated with a maternal uncle/KAH-woo/Khadijagirl(Arabic-derived) A cherished historic name borne by Khadija, remembered for strength, faith, and generosity/kha-DEE-jah/Khadragirl(Arabic-derived) Fresh, flourishing, and full of life/KHAD-rah/KhairuddinboyGoodness of the religion/faith./khay-rood-DEEN/KhalidboyEternal, immortal, everlasting./KHAH-lid/Khalifaboy(Arabic-derived) A worthy successor and responsible leader/kha-LEE-fah/Khalilboy(Arabic-derived) A cherished friend and loyal companion/kha-LEEL/Khamisboy(Arabic-derived) Traditionally connected with Thursday, a child welcomed on a blessed day/KHAH-mees/Khamisuboy(Arabic-derived) A child associated with Thursday and the blessings of that day/KHAH-mee-soo/KhawlagirlFemale gazelle; a young doe./KHOW-lah/Kifayagirl(Arabic-derived) Enough, contentment, and the assurance of having what is needed/kee-FAH-yah/Kubragirl(Arabic-derived) The greatest, most distinguished, or most senior/KOOB-rah/KulugirlA traditional Hausa name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story/KOO-loo/KuraboyA hardy, resourceful child with the toughness of the wild/KOO-ra/KwazoboyIndigenous Hausa: A diligent, energetic child who works toward his goals./KWAH-zoh/Kyautaboy or girlA precious gift and blessing/KYOW-tah/

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LabaranboyA Hausa name associated with good news or an awaited announcement/lah-BAH-ran/LabibagirlAn intelligent, wise, and discerning woman (Arabic-derived)/la-BEE-ba/LadanboyA Hausa name associated with pleasant fragrance and sweetness/LAH-dan/LadigirlIndigenous Hausa day-name for a girl born on Monday/LAH-dee/LadidigirlA traditional Hausa feminine name, often used as a longer form related to Ladi/lah-DEE-dee/LahadigirlArabic-derived Hausa day-name for a girl born on Sunday/lah-HAH-dee/LailagirlArabic-derived: night; a poetic name associated with beauty and the calm of night/LAY-lah/LamigirlArabic-derived: radiant, shining, and bright/LAH-mee/LaminuboyArabic-derived: trustworthy, faithful, and dependable/lah-MEE-noo/LamisgirlSoft, smooth, delicate to the touch./LAH-mis/LarabagirlArabic-derived Hausa day-name for a girl born on Wednesday/lah-RAH-bah/LaraigirlA traditional Hausa female personal name; no fixed literal meaning such as “affectionate familiarity” is established./lah-RYE/LatifboyArabic-derived: gentle, gracious, and kind-hearted/lah-TEEF/LatifagirlArabic-derived: gentle, gracious, and kind-hearted/lah-TEE-fah/LawalboyArabic-derived: the first, foremost, or eldest/LAH-wal/LawanboyIndigenous Hausa day-name for a boy born on Monday/LAH-wan/LimanboyArabic-derived: imam or religious leader; a name expressing respect for learning and faith/LEE-man/LubabagirlArabic-derived: the heart, essence, or innermost goodness of something/loo-BAH-bah/LubnagirlArabic-derived: the fragrant storax tree, a graceful nature name/LOOB-nah/LujaingirlSilver./loo-JAIN/LukmanboyArabic-derived: wise and thoughtful, recalling Luqman in Islamic tradition/LOOK-man/

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MadakiboyHausa indigenous title-name associated with a powerful commander or senior chief./mah-DAH-kee/MadihagirlA woman who praises; praising or laudatory./mah-DEE-hah/MaduguboyIndigenous Hausa; a guide, leader, or person others can follow/mah-DOO-goo/MagajiboyIndigenous Hausa; an heir, successor, or one who carries the family forward/mah-GAH-jee/MahagirlOryx or wild cow; by association, beautiful eyes/beauty./MAH-hah/MahamadouboyA widely used West African form of Muhammad/mah-hah-MAH-doo/MahamanboyA widely used Nigerien Hausa form of Muhammad/mah-hah-MAN/MahdiboyArabic-derived; a guided or rightly directed person/MAHD-ee/MahiragirlArabic-derived: skilled, capable, and accomplished/mah-HEE-rah/MahmudboyArabic-derived; praised and worthy of honor/mah-MOOD/MaikudiboyHausa indigenous name expressing wealth and material prosperity./my-KOO-dee/MaimunagirlArabic-derived; blessed, fortunate, and protected/mai-MOO-nah/MairamagirlAn established Hausa female personal name; it does not have a reliably attested literal meaning of “grace and beauty.”/MY-rah-mah/MairigaboyLiterally, “owner/wearer of a riga (gown or long shirt)”; also used as a Hausa male name./my-REE-ga/MairogirlA familiar Hausa form used affectionately for Maimuna or related female names/MAI-roh/MaitamaboyIndigenous Hausa; a name expressing dignity, distinction, and standing/mai-TAH-mah/MaiwadaboyIndigenous Hausa; a child blessed with a living father and family support/mai-WAH-dah/MaiyakiboyIndigenous Hausa; a brave warrior and defender/mai-YAH-kee/MajidboyArabic-derived name meaning glorious, noble, and worthy of honor./mah-JEED/MajidagirlArabic-derived name meaning glorious, noble, and distinguished./mah-JEE-dah/MakamaboyIndigenous Hausa usage: title-holder or one entrusted with authority/ma-KA-ma/MalamiboyA traditional Hausa name associated with a respected teacher or Islamic scholar/mah-LAH-mee/MalikagirlArabic-derived: queenly and dignified/mah-LEE-kah/MammanboyA Hausa form or familiar short form of Muhammadu/Muhammad, “the praised one.”/MAM-man/MansurboyArabic-derived; victorious and triumphant/man-SOOR/MansuragirlArabic-derived: A victorious girl whose life is filled with strength and success./man-SOO-rah/MarafaboyA Hausa traditional title/name; the particular office and rank vary by emirate./ma-RA-fa/MariyagirlArabic-derived; a form of Maryam, traditionally associated with purity and devotion/mah-REE-yah/MarufboyKnown, recognized; also good, proper, or commendable./mah-ROOF/MarwagirlAl-Marwah, the sacred hill in Makkah; also a flint-like stone./MAR-wah/MarwanboyTraditionally associated with flint stone; some etymological accounts also connect it with a fragrant plant./MAR-wahn/MaryamgirlArabic-derived; a beloved and spiritually pure woman/MAR-yam/MarziyagirlPleasing, approved, and held in favor/mar-ZEE-yah/MasudboyArabic-derived; one who is blessed and fortunate/mah-SOOD/MasudagirlA fortunate and happy girl/mah-SOO-dah/MawaddagirlAffection, goodwill, and loving kindness/ma-WAD-da/MazinboyArabic-derived: rain-bearing cloud; a hopeful image of blessing and abundance/MA-zin/MikailboyThe angel Michael; one who is like God/mee-KA-eel/MuawiyaboyA historic Islamic name borne by a prominent early Muslim leader/moo-ah-WEE-ya/MuazuboyArabic-derived; one who is supported or helped by God/moo-AH-zoo/MubarakboyArabic-derived; a blessed or fortunate person/moo-BAH-rak/MubarakagirlA blessed girl and a source of joy/moo-bah-RAH-kah/MubashirboyA joyful name for one who brings hope and good news to others/moo-bah-SHEER/MubinagirlClear, evident, manifest; feminine form of Mubīn./moo-BEE-nah/MufidagirlUseful, beneficial, helpful./moo-FEE-da/MuhammadboyArabic-derived; Muhammad, a greatly praised person/moo-HAM-mad/MuhsinboyA person of goodness and virtue/MOOH-sin/MuhsinagirlA woman who does good and brings benefit/moo-HSEE-na/MujahidboyOne who strives or struggles, especially in the religious sense of one engaged in jihad./moo-JAH-hid/MujtababoyArabic-derived; a favored or specially chosen person/mooj-TAH-bah/MukhtarboyArabic-derived; trusted, chosen, or appointed for a task/mookh-TAHR/MumtazgirlArabic-derived: exceptional and distinguished/MOOM-tahz/MunagirlWishes, hopes, desires; from Arabic munā./MOO-nah/MunawwarboyRadiant, enlightened, and full of light/moo-NAW-wahr/MunawwaragirlArabic-derived: radiant and full of light/moo-nah-WAR-ah/MuneebboyDevoted and faithful, always turning toward God/mu-NEEB/MuneebagirlA woman who turns or returns to God, especially repentantly./moo-NEE-bah/MunirboyArabic-derived; bright, lively, and full of light/moo-NEER/MuniragirlA radiant girl who brings warmth and light/moo-NEE-rah/Murnaboy or girlJoy and celebration/MOOR-nah/MurtadaboyApproved, pleasing, accepted, or chosen./moor-TAH-dah/MurtalaboyArabic-derived; a chosen or approved person/moor-TAH-lah/MusaboyArabic-derived; a name associated with the Prophet Moses/MOO-sah/MusabboyArabic-derived: strong, resilient, and able to endure hardship/MOO-sab/MustaphaboyArabic-derived; chosen, selected, or favored/moo-STAH-fah/

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NabilboyNoble and distinguished/nah-BEEL/NabilagirlNoble and distinguished/nah-BEE-lah/NadiagirlTender and delicate/NAH-dee-ah/NadifagirlPure-hearted and clean in spirit/nah-DEE-fah/NadimboyCompanion, confidant, or convivial companion; traditionally also a companion at a drinking gathering./nah-DEEM/NadirboyRare and precious/NAH-deer/NadiragirlRare and precious/nah-DEE-rah/NadiyagirlTender and delicate/nah-DEE-yah/NadwagirlArabic-derived: a gathering for learning and thoughtful discussion/NAD-wah/NaeemboyEase, comfort, bliss, prosperity, or felicity./na-EEM/NafisagirlPrecious and dearly cherished/nah-FEE-sah/NafiuboyA source of benefit and goodness/nah-FEE-oo/NagartagirlGoodness, virtue, and moral excellence/nah-GAR-tah/NailagirlOne who achieves her goals/NAH-ee-lah/NaimboyComfortable, peaceful, and blessed/NAH-eem/NaimagirlPeaceful, contented, and blessed/nah-EE-mah/NajiboySafe, secure, and protected/NAH-jee/NajibboyNoble and excellent in character/nah-JEEB/NajibagirlNoble and excellent in character/nah-JEE-bah/NajiyagirlSafe, secure, and protected/nah-JEE-yah/NajlagirlArabic-derived: bright-eyed and beautiful/NAHJ-lah/NajmagirlA shining star/NAJ-mah/NajmuddinboyStar of the faith/religion./naj-mood-DEEN/NajwagirlSecret conversation, confidential discourse, or private whispering./NAJ-wah/NamadiboyEstablished Hausa male personal name; it does not have a securely established literal gloss suitable for a name-meaning entry./na-MA-di/NanagirlA daughter named in honor of a beloved grandmother or elder/NAH-nah/NargisgirlA fragrant narcissus flower/NAR-gis/Nasaraboy or girlVictory, triumph, and hope for good things ahead/nah-SAH-rah/NaseemboyGentle breeze; zephyr./na-SEEM/NashiruboyA helper and defender of others/nah-SHEE-roo/NashitagirlArabic-derived: lively, energetic, and full of vitality/nah-SHEE-tah/NashwagirlExhilaration, delight, or ecstatic joy./NASH-wah/NasibagirlA child with a fortunate destiny and a good share in life/na-SEE-ba/NasihagirlArabic-derived — Sincere counsel and wise guidance/nah-SEE-hah/NasirboyA helper and defender of others/NAH-seer/NasiragirlArabic-derived: A strong helper who brings courage and success to those around her./nah-SEE-rah/NasiruboyA helper and defender of others/nah-SEE-roo/NasiruddinboyHelper, defender, or supporter of the faith/religion./na-seer-ood-DEEN/NasrullahboyHelp and victory granted by God/nas-rool-LAH/NaufalboyGenerous, gracious, and noble-hearted/NOW-fal/NawalgirlA precious gift and blessing/NAH-wal/NazihagirlHonest, pure, and upright/nah-ZEE-hah/NaziruboyWatchful and attentive/nah-ZEE-roo/NiimagirlA precious blessing and favor/NEE-ma/Nimatullahboy or girlA blessing from God/nee-mah-too-LAH/NuhuboyThe name of the prophet Noah, associated with patience and steadfast faith/NOO-hoo/NumanboyThe Hausa-Muslim form of Arabic Nuʿman/Nuʿmān; traditionally associated with redness or the red anemone./NOO-man/NuraboyA source of light and hope/NOO-rah/NuraddeenboyThe light of faith/noo-rah-DEEN/NuruboyLight, radiance, and spiritual brightness/NOO-roo/NusaibagirlA name associated with faith, courage, and dignity/noo-SAI-bah/NusairboyVictory and triumph/noo-SAIR/NusragirlHelp, strength, and victory/NOOS-rah/NusratgirlHelp, strength, and victory/NOOS-rat/

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RababgirlWhite cloud; Rabab is also the name of a traditional bowed string instrument./rah-BAHB/Rabi'uboyArabic-derived: springtime, freshness, and new beginnings/rah-BEE-oo/RabiagirlArabic-derived: springtime, freshness, and new beginnings/rah-BEE-ah/RabiatugirlArabic-derived: springtime and renewal/rah-bee-AH-too/RabiyagirlArabic-derived: springtime and renewal/rah-BEE-yah/RaboboyIndigenous Hausa: one’s share, blessing, or portion in life/RAH-boh/RafatugirlArabic-derived: noble, elevated, and held in high esteem/rah-FAH-too/RafiboyNoble, uplifted, and honored/RAH-fee/RafiagirlElevated, exalted, or lofty./rah-FEE-ah/RafiqboyArabic-derived: kind companion and loyal friend/ra-FEEK/RafiuboyArabic-derived: one who is elevated in rank and character/rah-FEE-oo/RahamagirlMercy, tenderness, and compassionate strength/ra-HA-ma/RahilagirlArabic-derived: a traveler with purpose and a life filled with meaningful journeys/rah-HEE-lah/RahimboyArabic-derived — A compassionate and merciful person/rah-HEEM/RahimagirlArabic-derived — A compassionate and merciful woman/rah-HEE-mah/RahmagirlArabic-derived: mercy, kindness, and compassionate love/RAH-mah/RahmatugirlArabic-derived: a child surrounded by mercy and compassion/rah-MAH-too/RaihanboyBasil; an aromatic or sweet-smelling plant./RY-hahn/RaihanagirlFeminine form associated with basil or an aromatic, sweet-smelling plant./rye-HAH-nah/RainagirlIndigenous Hausa: my life, a tender expression of love for a cherished child/RAI-nah/RajabboyArabic-derived: born in or associated with the honored month of Rajab/RAH-jab/RakiyagirlArabic-derived: elevated, dignified, and spiritually strong/rah-KEE-yah/RaliyagirlArabic-derived: contented, peaceful, and grateful/rah-LEE-yah/RamadanboyArabic-derived: associated with the holy month of Ramadan and its blessings/rah-mah-DAHN/RamatugirlArabic-derived: mercy, tenderness, and compassionate love/rah-MAH-too/RamlagirlArabic-derived: gentle, grounded, and enduring/RAHM-lah/Ranaboy or girlSunshine and brightness/RAH-na/RaniboyA boy born during the dry or hot season./RAH-nee/RaniyagirlOne who gazes or looks intently./ra-NEE-ya/RashadboyWisely guided and sound in judgment/rah-SHAAD/RashidboyArabic-derived: rightly guided, wise, and steady in character/rah-SHEED/RashidagirlArabic-derived: rightly guided, wise, and sound in judgment/rah-SHEE-dah/RashiduboyArabic-derived — A wise person who follows the right path/rah-SHEE-doo/RaufboyDeeply compassionate, gentle, and merciful/ROWF/RayuwagirlLife, vitality, and the blessing of being alive/rah-YOO-wah/RayyanboyWell-watered, luxuriant, or flourishing; also the name of the gate of Paradise associated with those who fast./RY-yan/RidwanboyContentment, acceptance, and God's favor/rid-WAHN/RihanagirlArabic-derived: fragrant and sweet-smelling like basil/ree-HAH-nah/RiyadboyArabic plural meaning “gardens” or “meadows.”/ree-YAD/RufaiboyA traditional Islamic personal name with a respected scholarly and spiritual association/roo-FEYE/RufaidagirlA helpful and supportive woman/roo-FAI-dah/RukayyagirlArabic-derived: one who rises in dignity, strength, and spiritual stature/roo-KAI-yah/RuwagirlWater—a life-giving, refreshing, and sustaining presence (indigenous Hausa)/ROO-wa/

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SaadboyArabic-derived name expressing happiness, good fortune, and a prosperous life./SAHD/SaadagirlHappiness and good fortune/SAH-dah/SaadatugirlArabic-derived; happiness and good fortune/saa-DAH-too/SabahgirlMorning, dawn, and a new beginning/sa-BAH/SabihagirlArabic-derived: lovely, graceful, and pleasant/sah-BEE-hah/SabiragirlArabic-derived; patient, steady, and resilient/sah-BEE-rah/SabiruboyArabic-derived: Patient and steadfast, with the strength to persevere./sah-BEE-roo/SadaukiboyIndigenous Hausa; brave, respected, and ready to lead/sah-DAW-kee/SadiqboyArabic-derived; truthful and sincere/SAH-deek/SadiqagirlArabic-derived; truthful and sincere/sah-DEE-kah/SadiquboyArabic-derived — A truthful and sincere person/sah-DEE-koo/SadiyagirlA fortunate and joy-bringing girl/sah-DEE-yah/SafagirlArabic-derived: purity, serenity, and clarity/SAH-fah/SafinatugirlArabic-derived from safīnah, meaning “ship,” “boat,” or “vessel.”/sa-fee-NA-too/SafiyagirlArabic-derived; pure-hearted and sincere/sah-FEE-yah/SafiyyagirlPure-hearted and treasured/sah-FEE-yah/SahargirlArabic-derived: dawn or the calm before sunrise/SAH-har/SahuragirlA Hausa-Muslim female form associated with sahur, the pre-dawn meal before fasting; by extension, pre-dawn/early morning./sa-HOO-ra/SaidagirlArabic-derived; happy and fortunate/sah-EE-dah/SaiduboyArabic-derived; happy and fortunate/SAI-doo/SaifboyA sword; figuratively, strength and courage/SAIF/SaifullahboyA brave defender of faith and justice/say-fool-LAH/Saifullahiboy[Arabic-derived] Sword of God; traditionally associated with courage and steadfastness/say-foo-LAH-hee/SajidboyArabic-derived: “one who prostrates in worship.”/SAH-jid/SajidagirlArabic-derived feminine form: “a woman who prostrates in worship.”/sah-JEE-dah/SajjadboyArabic-derived: “one who frequently prostrates in worship.”/saj-JAD/SakinagirlArabic-derived; calm, peaceful, and serene/sah-KEE-nah/SalahboyA name wishing a child integrity, goodness, and a life lived well/SAH-lah/SalamatugirlArabic-derived; peace, safety, and well-being/sah-lah-MAH-too/SalihagirlArabic-derived — A righteous woman with a good heart/sah-LEE-hah/SalihuboyArabic-derived; upright, good-hearted, and righteous/sah-LEE-hoo/SalimboyArabic-derived; safe, whole, and well/sah-LEEM/SalimagirlArabic-derived; safe, whole, and well/sah-LEE-mah/SalisuboyArabic-derived; traditionally associated with being the third child/sah-LEE-soo/SalmagirlPeaceful, safe, and serene/SAL-mah/SalmanboySafe, peaceful, and secure/SAL-mahn/SalsabilgirlThe name of a spring in Paradise mentioned in the Qur'an./sal-sa-BEEL/SalsabilagirlArabic-derived: a beautiful spring or fountain in Paradise/sal-sah-BEE-lah/SamahgirlArabic-derived: forgiveness, generosity, and graciousness/SAH-mah/SamailaboyArabic-derived; a well-established Muslim name traditionally associated with devotion and obedience to God/sah-MAI-lah/SamargirlArabic-derived: evening or nighttime conversation; companionship in such conversation./SA-mar/SamboboyIndigenous Hausa; a traditional name with a strong cultural history/SAM-boh/SamirboyArabic-derived; a warm and pleasant companion/sah-MEER/SamiragirlArabic-derived; a warm and delightful companion/sah-MEE-rah/SanagirlArabic-derived: radiance, brilliance, or excellence/SAH-nah/SaniboyArabic-derived; traditionally associated with being the second child/SAH-nee/SarauniyagirlHausa indigenous name meaning queen, a woman of royal dignity./sah-RAU-nee-yah/SarkiboyIndigenous Hausa; a strong name evoking leadership, dignity, and authority/SAHR-kee/SaudatugirlArabic-derived; blessed with happiness and good fortune/sow-DAH-too/SawsangirlLily or iris; an Arabic flower name./SOW-san/ShafiuboyArabic-derived; one who cares for and speaks up for others/shah-FEE-oo/ShahidagirlFemale witness; depending on the Arabic form, it may also mean female martyr./shah-HEE-dah/ShakirboyGrateful, appreciative, and mindful of blessings/SHAH-kir/ShakiragirlGrateful, appreciative, and mindful of blessings/shah-KEE-rah/ShamimagirlFragrant; a sweet scent or fragrance./shah-MEE-mah/ShamsiyyagirlArabic-derived; radiant and full of sunshine/sham-SEE-yah/ShamsuboySunshine; warm, bright, and life-giving/SHAM-soo/SharafuddinboyHonour, nobility, or dignity of the faith/religion./sha-raf-ood-DEEN/SharifboyArabic-derived name meaning noble and honorable, traditionally also suggesting respected lineage./shah-REEF/SharifagirlArabic-derived name meaning noble, honorable, and dignified./shah-REE-fah/ShehuboyArabic-derived; a respected and wise leader/SHAY-hoo/ShettimaboyA Kanuri title-name from the Borno area, associated with rank and leadership./SHE-ti-ma/ShifagirlHealing, remedy, and comfort/SHEE-fa/ShihabboyArabic-derived: a bright flame or meteor, symbolizing brilliance/shi-HAB/ShuaibuboyArabic-derived; a respected traditional Muslim name associated with the prophet Shuʿayb/shoo-AI-boo/ShukriboyArabic-derived — A grateful and appreciative person/SHOOK-ree/ShukriyagirlThankfulness for God’s blessings/shook-REE-yah/ShukuragirlThankfulness for a cherished blessing/shoo-KOO-ra/SiddiqboyExceptionally truthful; very sincere or truthful one./sid-DEEK/SirajboyLamp, lantern, or light./see-RAAJ/SorayyagirlArabic-derived; sparkling and radiant like the stars/soh-RAI-yah/SufiyanboyA traditional Hausa name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story/soo-fee-YAHN/SuhaybboyReddish-haired or reddish-complexioned./soo-HAYB/SulaimatugirlArabic-derived; a cherished traditional Muslim name associated with wisdom and peace/soo-lai-MAH-too/SuleimanboyArabic-derived; a well-established Muslim name associated with wisdom and peaceful leadership/soo-lai-MAHN/SultanboyArabic-derived name meaning ruler or person of commanding authority./SOOL-tan/SumayyagirlArabic-derived; a cherished traditional Muslim name with a long history/soo-MAI-yah/SundusgirlFine silk, associated with the gardens of Paradise/SOON-doos/

T

TabassumgirlSmile./ta-bas-SOOM/TafidaboyA traditional Hausa personal name and title-associated name, linked with authority and public leadership./tah-FEE-dah/TahaboyA Quranic name associated with the letter Ta-Ha/TA-ha/TahirboyAn Arabic-derived Muslim name meaning pure and virtuous./TAH-heer/TahiragirlAn Arabic-derived Muslim name meaning pure and virtuous./tah-HEE-rah/TajudeenboyAn Arabic-derived Muslim name meaning crown of faith./tah-joo-DEEN/TalatugirlA Hausa Muslim name traditionally associated with Tuesday./tah-LAH-too/TalhaboyArabic-derived name of a tree (traditionally identified as an acacia; the precise botanical identification is debated)./TAL-ha/TalibboyAn Arabic-derived Muslim name meaning a seeker of knowledge./TAH-lib/TalibagirlAn Arabic-derived Muslim name meaning a girl who seeks knowledge and wisdom./tah-LEE-bah/TalleboyThe first-born of a pair of twins./TAHL-leh/TambariboyA traditional Hausa title-derived personal name associated with the tambari, a ceremonial drum and symbol of public authority./tam-BAH-ree/TamimboyArabic-derived: complete, perfect, or whole./ta-MEEM/TanimuboyA traditional Hausa name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story/tah-NEE-moo/TankoboyA much-loved younger child held close by the family/TAHN-koh/TaqwagirlArabic-derived — A life guided by piety and good conduct/TAK-wah/TariqboyAn Arabic-derived Muslim name evoking a bright star or a welcome arrival in the night./TAH-rik/TasiuboyA Hausa-used Arabic-derived name traditionally connected with the number nine or ninth-born child./tah-SEE-oo/TasmiagirlArabic-derived: naming, designation, or the act of giving a name; it can also refer to invoking God's name./tas-MEE-ah/TasnimgirlArabic-derived: a lofty spring or fountain in Paradise, mentioned in the Qur'an./tas-NEEM/TaufidagirlAn Arabic-derived Muslim name wishing a girl success and God’s guidance./tow-FEE-dah/TaufiqboyAn Arabic-derived Muslim name wishing a child success and God’s guidance./tow-FEEK/Tausayiboy or girlIndigenous Hausa — Compassion and a tender heart toward others/tow-SAH-yee/TawakkaliboyArabic-derived — A person who meets life with trust and patience/tah-wak-KAH-lee/TawfiqboySuccess granted through God’s help/taw-FEEK/TawhidagirlAn Arabic-derived Muslim name expressing devotion to the oneness of God./tow-HEE-dah/TayyabboyAn Arabic-derived Muslim name meaning good-hearted, wholesome, and pure./TIE-yab/TayyabagirlAn Arabic-derived Muslim name meaning good-hearted, wholesome, and pure./tie-YAH-bah/TijjaniboyAn Arabic-derived Muslim name honoring the Tijani tradition and its spiritual heritage./tee-JAH-nee/TsamiyagirlAn indigenous Hausa nature name inspired by the tamarind tree, suggesting rootedness and enduring sweetness./tsah-MEE-yah/Tsiraboy or girlA life preserved and kept safe/TSEE-rah/TsohoboyAn indigenous Hausa name expressing respect for age, experience, and the wisdom of elders./TSOH-hoh/TubagirlBlessedness, goodness, and happiness/TOO-bah/TukurboyA well-attested Hausa male name, with older traditional interpretations varying between families and regions./TOO-koor/TurakiboyA Hausa title-derived name associated with a senior royal or chiefly office, carrying a sense of dignity and leadership./too-RAH-kee/

U

UbaidullahiboyArabic-derived; servant of Allah, expressing humility and devotion/oo-bai-doo-LAH-hee/UlfahgirlArabic-derived: affection, friendship, and loving fellowship/OOL-fah/UmarboyArabic-derived; flourishing and long-lived/OO-mar/UmaruboyHausa form of the Arabic name Umar; flourishing and long-lived/OO-mah-roo/UmmuhanigirlUsually written Ummu Hani or Umm Hani: “mother of Hani,” an established Arabic feminine personal name/teknonym./oom-moo-HA-nee/UmmulkhairigirlArabic-derived; mother of goodness, a beautiful wish for a life that brings kindness and blessing/oom-ool-KHAI-ree/UmmulkhulsumgirlArabic-derived; a name honoring Umm Kulthum, a respected early Muslim woman/oom-ool-KHOOL-soom/UmmusalamagirlArabic-derived; associated with Umm Salama, a respected and wise early Muslim woman/oom-oo-sah-LAH-mah/UsainiboyHausa form of Husayn; a beloved and honored descendant of the Prophet's family/oo-SAI-nee/UsamaboyArabic-derived; lion, a warm wish for courage and dignity/oo-SAH-mah/UsaydboyArabic-derived: little lion, evoking courage and strength/oo-SAYD/UsmanboyArabic-derived; the traditional name of the third caliph of Islam, associated with strength and faithfulness/OOS-man/UwaisboyArabic-derived; the name of Uways, a revered early Muslim figure/oo-WAIS/UwaisuboyArabic-derived; a Hausa form of the name Uways, associated with devotion and spiritual goodness/oo-WAI-soo/UwanigirlA traditional Hausa name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story/oo-WAH-nee/UzairboyArabic and Quranic form of Ezra, a respected prophetic name/oo-ZAIR/

W

WadaboyA promise kept and a life grounded in trust; Arabic-derived and naturalized in Hausa usage./WAH-dah/WadataboyProsperity, abundance, and a life rich in blessings; an indigenous Hausa lexical name./wah-DAH-tah/WafagirlA life marked by loyalty, devotion, and steadfast love; Arabic-derived./WAH-fah/WafiyagirlA faithful and dependable daughter with a loyal, loving heart; Arabic-derived./wah-FEE-yah/WahabboyA generous giver, blessed with a giving heart; Arabic-derived./wah-HAB/WahibagirlArabic-derived: a generous giver and gracious benefactor/wah-HEE-bah/WahidboyOne of a kind, precious, and wonderfully unique; Arabic-derived./WAH-heed/WahidagirlA unique and precious daughter, one who is truly special; Arabic-derived./wah-HEE-dah/WajidboyOne who finds goodness, wisdom, and what is valuable in life; Arabic-derived./WAH-jid/WajidagirlA daughter who discovers goodness and brings treasured blessings to her family; Arabic-derived./wah-JEE-dah/WajihagirlArabic-derived: eminent, respected, distinguished, or of high standing./wah-JEE-hah/WakiliboyA trusted representative and dependable guardian; Arabic-derived./wah-KEE-lee/WaliboyA loyal friend, protector, and person close to God; Arabic-derived./WAH-lee/WalidboyA beloved newborn and welcome new arrival; Arabic-derived./wah-LEED/WalidagirlA cherished daughter, associated with motherhood and the gift of new life; Arabic-derived./wah-LEE-dah/WaliyyagirlA cherished friend and woman of protection and closeness to God; Arabic-derived./wah-LEE-yah/WardagirlA beautiful rose: graceful, fragrant, and dearly cherished; Arabic-derived./WAR-dah/WarisboyAn heir to cherished values, blessings, and a family’s good name; Arabic-derived./WAH-ris/WaseemboyArabic-derived: handsome, beautiful, or well-featured./wa-SEEM/WasilboyA person who builds connections, reaches worthy goals, and keeps family bonds strong; Arabic-derived./WAH-sil/WasilagirlA daughter who brings people together and remains close to those she loves; Arabic-derived./wah-SEE-lah/WaziriboyA respected counsellor and person of responsibility; Arabic-derived and also associated with a traditional title./wah-ZEE-ree/WidadgirlAffection, tenderness, and the loving bond she brings to her family; Arabic-derived./wee-DAD/

Y

YaganagirlIndigenous Hausa female name associated with a first-born or first daughter./yah-GAH-nah/YahayaboyArabic-derived Hausa form of Yahya, meaning “God gives life”; a cherished prophetic name/yah-HAH-yah/YakububoyArabic-derived Hausa form of Yaqub, meaning “Jacob”; a traditional name associated with a revered prophet/yah-KOO-boo/YalwagirlAn indigenous Hausa name expressing abundance, prosperity, and the joy of having plenty/YAL-wah/YaminagirlArabic-derived name meaning “blessed,” “fortunate,” or “one who is on the right side”/yah-MEE-nah/Yaqeenboy or girlDeep faith and reassuring certainty/ya-KEEN/YaqubboyA name honoring a wise ancestor and the strength of a lasting family line/YAH-koob/YaqutagirlAn Arabic-derived Hausa name meaning “ruby” or “precious jewel”/yah-KOO-tah/YarimaboyPrince or royal son; a name expressing dignity and promise/yah-REE-mah/YaroboyBoy or young child—a name expressing affection for a cherished son/YAH-roh/YasinboyArabic Qur’anic name associated with Surah Ya-Sin; traditionally understood as a blessed and spiritually significant name/yah-SEEN/YasiragirlArabic-derived feminine form: prosperous, at ease, or one who makes things easy./yah-SEE-rah/YasmingirlArabic-derived name meaning “jasmine,” evoking beauty and a sweet spirit/YAS-min/YasminagirlAn Arabic-derived feminine form of Yasmin, meaning “jasmine”/yas-MEE-nah/YayaboyA familiar Hausa Muslim form related to Yahya, meaning “God gives life”/YAH-yah/YelwagirlProsperity, abundance, and a flourishing life/YEL-wah/YumnagirlArabic-derived name meaning “blessed,” “fortunate,” or “prosperous”/YOOM-nah/YunusaboyArabic-derived Hausa form of Yunus, meaning “Jonah”; a name linked with patience and faith/yoo-NOO-sah/YusragirlArabic-derived name meaning “ease,” “comfort,” or “prosperity”; a hopeful name for a child’s peaceful future/YOOS-rah/YusufuboyArabic-derived Hausa form of Yusuf, meaning “Joseph”; a beloved prophetic name/yoo-SOO-foo/

Z

ZahidboyArabic-derived: an ascetic, one who renounces worldly excess; by extension, devout or pious./ZAH-hid/ZahidagirlArabic-derived feminine form: ascetic, devout, or pious./zah-HEE-dah/ZahirboyArabic-derived: apparent, manifest, clear, or shining./ZA-heer/ZahiragirlRadiant, shining, and bright/zah-HEE-rah/ZahiruboyArabic-derived: bright, radiant, and clearly seen/zah-HEE-roo/ZahragirlArabic-derived: radiant, shining, and flower-like/ZAH-rah/ZaiduboyArabic-derived: growth, increase, and abundance/ZAY-doo/ZainboyArabic-derived: beauty, grace, and adornment/ZAYN/ZainabgirlArabic-derived: a fragrant flower and a cherished traditional Muslim name/ZAY-nab/ZainabugirlArabic-derived: a fragrant flower and a cherished traditional Muslim name/zay-NAH-boo/ZainuddeenboyArabic-derived: the beauty and adornment of the faith/zay-nood-DEEN/ZainulabidinboyOrnament/adornment of the worshippers./zay-noo-la-bi-DEEN/ZakariyyaboyArabic-derived: God remembers/zah-kah-REE-yah/ZakiboyIndigenous Hausa: lion; a bold and courageous name/ZAH-kee/ZakiagirlPure, virtuous; also intelligent/keen-minded./zah-KEE-ah/Zakirboy[Arabic-derived] One who remembers God; a name expressing devotion and a thoughtful spirit/ZA-keer/Zamaniboy or girlArabic-derived: an era, a period, or the modern age/zah-MAH-nee/ZaydboyIncrease, growth, abundance./ZAYD/ZikrullahiboyArabic-derived: remembrance of God/zik-roo-LAH-hee/ZiyadboyIncrease, growth, abundance./zee-YAD/ZubaidagirlArabic-derived: excellent, precious, and of the finest quality/zoo-BAY-dah/ZubairuboyArabic-derived: a traditional Muslim name associated with strength and courage/zoo-BAY-roo/ZuhairuboyArabic-derived: a traditional name associated with brightness and flowers/zoo-HAY-roo/ZuhragirlArabic-derived: radiant and bright; also associated with Venus/ZOOH-rah/ZuhuragirlArabic-derived: blossoms, flowers, or radiant beauty/zoo-HOO-rah/ZulaihagirlArabic-derived: the traditional name associated with the woman in the Joseph story/zoo-LAY-hah/ZulkifiluboyArabic-derived: the name of a prophet mentioned in the Quran/zool-kee-FEE-loo/ZunairagirlA traditional Hausa name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story/zoo-NAI-rah/ZuwairagirlA traditional Hausa name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story/zoo-WAY-rah/