THE 2026 FIELD GUIDE IS HERERead the trend report

Somali names.

748 verified names from Somalia and Kenya and Ethiopia — each with its meaning, its sound, and its traditional spelling.

A

AabidboyA devoted worshipper of God/AA-bid/AadanboyThe first human and a cherished name associated with humanity/AA-dan/AaliyagirlArabic-derived — noble and highly esteemed/AH-lee-yah/AaminboyArabic-derived: faithful, trustworthy, and secure in faith/AA-min/AaminagirlArabic-derived: faithful, trustworthy, and protected; a gentle blessing of security/aa-MEE-na/AasimboyArabic-derived: one who protects and safeguards others/AA-sim/AasiyagirlArabic-derived: one who heals or comforts; also the name of Pharaoh’s believing wife in Islamic tradition./ah-SEE-yah/AatifboyArabic-derived: compassionate, sympathetic, or kind-hearted./AA-tif/AbaadirboyA traditional Somali name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story/a-ba-DEER/AbbasboyArabic-derived: a lion; also associated with strength and courage/AB-bas/AbdiboyArabic-derived: servant of God; a name associated with devotion/AB-dee/AbdijaliilboyServant of the Majestic, a name expressing devotion to God/ab-di-ja-LEEL/AbdinuurboyServant of light, suggesting faith and spiritual radiance/ab-di-NOOR/AbdirahmanboyArabic-derived: servant of the Most Merciful/ab-dee-RAH-man/AbdisalamboyArabic-derived: servant of the Source of Peace/ab-dee-sa-LAM/AbdullahiboyArabic-derived: servant of God/ab-doo-LAH-hee/Abeergirl[Arabic-derived] Fragrance or pleasant scent/ah-BEER/AblagirlArabic-derived: full-bodied or plump; also an established feminine personal name./AB-lah/AbshirboyBearer of good news and joyful tidings/ab-SHEER/AbukarboyArabic-derived: a traditional honorific name associated with Abu Bakr; often understood through its Arabic meaning, “father of a young camel”/ah-boo-KAR/AbyangirlArabic-derived: clear-spoken, eloquent, or unmistakably expressed/AB-yan/AdhamboyArabic-derived: dark or black, traditionally especially referring to a dark-colored horse./AD-ham/AdibagirlA cultured, thoughtful, and well-spoken woman/ah-DEE-ba/AdnanboyArabic-derived: a long-established personal name associated with settlement and lineage/AD-nan/AduunyogirlSomali form based on Arabic dunyā: the world or earthly life./ah-doon-yoh/AfdalboyThe best, most excellent, or most virtuous/AF-dal/AfdheerboyTraditional Somali name/nickname literally formed from af “mouth” and dheer “long”; thus “long-mouthed/long-tongued,” not broad-foreheaded./af-DHAYR/AfiifboyPure-hearted and upright/ah-FEEF/AfnangirlArabic-derived: flourishing branches, suggesting growth and a life full of promise/AF-nan/AfragirlArabic-derived: white or fair; often also understood as radiant/beautiful./AF-rah/AfrahgirlArabic: joys, happiness, or celebrations./AF-rah/AhlamgirlArabic-derived — dreams or aspirations/ah-LAHM/AhmedboyArabic-derived: highly praised/AH-med/AkramboyNoble-hearted, generous, and distinguished/AK-ram/Alaaboy or girlArabic: loftiness, eminence, exaltedness; also blessings or favors in some usage./ah-LAA/AliboyArabic-derived: noble and exalted/AH-lee/AlmasgirlArabic al-mās: diamond./al-MAHS/AmaalgirlArabic: hopes, wishes, or aspirations./ah-MAHL/Amalgirl[Arabic-derived] Hope and aspiration/ah-MAL/AmiinboyTrustworthy, faithful, and good-hearted/a-MEEN/Amiirboy[Arabic-derived] A prince or leader with authority and honor/a-MEER/AminboyArabic-derived: truthful and trustworthy/ah-MEEN/AminagirlArabic-derived: trustworthy and safe/ah-MEE-na/AmiragirlArabic-derived — a princess or gracious leader/ah-MEE-rah/AmjadboyArabic-derived: most glorious or most noble/AM-jad/AmmarboyArabic-derived: flourishing, prosperous, and full of life/am-MAAR/AnasboyA warm companion whose presence brings friendship and ease/AN-as/AnisboyArabic-derived name meaning a warm and companionable friend/ah-NEES/AnisagirlArabic-derived — friendly, companionable, and kind/ah-NEE-sah/AnwarboyArabic: lights; radiant or more luminous./AN-war/Aqilboy[Arabic-derived] Intelligent, thoughtful, and wise/ah-KEEL/AqilagirlArabic-derived — wise, discerning, and thoughtful/ah-KEE-lah/AqsagirlArabic: the farthest; associated with the blessed al-Aqsa sanctuary/AK-sa/AraaleboyA traditional Somali name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story/ah-RAA-leh/AragsangirlCushitic/Somali: beautiful and radiant/ar-RAHG-san/ArawelogirlTraditional Somali name commemorating the legendary queen Arawelo/ah-rah-WEH-loh/ArdogirlA Somali female given name with no securely established literal etymology./AR-doh/AreejgirlArabic: fragrant scent or perfume; a name evoking sweetness and beauty/a-REEJ/ArifboyArabic-derived: knowledgeable, discerning, and wise/AH-rif/Aroorboy or girlSomali: dawn, daybreak, or early morning./ah-ROOR/ArwagirlArabic Arwā’: a female ibex/mountain goat; it is also the name of several early Muslim women./AR-wa/AsadboyLion-hearted, brave, and strong/AH-sad/AshagirlArabic-derived: life and hope/AH-sha/AskarboySomali use of askari: soldier; by extension, a serviceman./AS-kar/AsligirlArabic-derived: original, genuine, authentic; literally “essential/original.”/AHS-lee/AsmagirlArabic-derived: noble, pure, and radiant/AS-ma/AsturgirlCovered, sheltered, or protected; associated with modesty/privacy./as-TOOR/AteeqboyArabic-derived: noble, ancient, or freed/ah-TEEK/AtifboyArabic-derived: kind, affectionate, and compassionate/AH-tif/AtiyagirlArabic-derived — a precious gift to her family/ah-TEE-yah/AwaleboyThe firstborn or one who holds a special place at the head of the family./ah-WAH-leh/AweysboyArabic-derived: a traditional form of Uways, a well-established Islamic personal name/ah-WAYS/AwrboySomali: a male camel, especially an adult male camel./OWR/AwralagirlA traditional Somali name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story/ow-RA-la/AxadboyA son born on Sunday/AH-had/AxmedboyArabic-derived: praiseworthy and noble/akh-med/AyaangirlCushitic Somali: good fortune, blessing, and the hopeful destiny bestowed on a child/ah-YAAN/AyaanleboyA fortunate person destined for good things/ah-YAAN-leh/AymanboyFortunate, blessed, and guided toward goodness/EYE-man/AyubboyArabic-derived: Job, a patient and steadfast prophet/AH-yub/AzizboyStrong, respected, and dearly cherished/ah-ZEEZ/AzizagirlA strong and precious daughter, deeply valued by her family/ah-ZEE-zah/Azzamboy[Arabic-derived] Strong-willed and determined/AZ-zam/

B

BadarboyRadiant and splendid like the full moon/BA-dar/BahdoonboySomali: prosperity, well-being, or good fortune. Standard Somali spelling is commonly Baxdoon./bah-DOON/BahiyagirlArabic-derived — radiant beauty and joyful brightness/bah-HEE-yah/BarakaboyBlessed and surrounded by goodness/ba-RA-ka/Barakoboy or girlArabic-derived: blessing and divine grace/bah-RAH-koh/Barkhadboy[Arabic-derived] Blessed and surrounded by good fortune/bar-KHAD/BarqogirlA daughter born in the freshness of morning/BAR-koh/BarreboyCushitic/Somali: traditionally associated with teaching, learning, and wisdom/BAH-reh/Barwaaqoboy or girl[Cushitic Somali] Prosperity, abundance, and a flourishing life/bar-WAA-qo/BashiirboyA child who brings wonderful news and happiness/ba-SHEER/BashragirlIf intended as the Arabic name Bushra/Bishra, it means “good news” or “glad tidings.”/BASH-rah/BasiiragirlInsightful, wise, and clear-sighted/ba-SEE-ra/Basimboy[Arabic-derived] Cheerful and smiling/BAH-sim/BasiragirlArabic-derived; perceptive and wise/ba-SEE-ra/BasmagirlArabic-derived — a smile or expression of happiness/BAS-mah/BaxnaanboySomali: welfare, comfort, well-being, or prosperity./bakh-NAAN/BaxsangirlA Somali name meaning fortunate or blessed by good circumstances/BAKH-san/BilaalboyArabic Bilāl: “moisture” or “water”; strongly associated with Bilāl ibn Rabāḥ, the early Muslim companion./bee-LAAL/BilalboyArabic Bilāl: “moisture” or “water”; associated with Bilāl ibn Rabāḥ./bee-LAAL/BilangirlRadiant and complete like a full moon/BEE-lan/BileboyA traditional Somali name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story/BEE-leh/BilqiisgirlArabic Bilqīs/Bilqees, the name traditionally given in Islamic and Arabic tradition to the Queen of Sheba./bil-kees/BishaarboyA joyful bearer of good news/bi-SHAAR/BishaarogirlGood news and joyful tidings/bi-SHAA-roh/Boqorboy[Cushitic Somali] Kingly, commanding, and worthy of respect/BO-kor/BuraaleboyTraditional Somali Cushitic name with an old and respected heritage/boo-RAA-leh/BuraanboyA distinctive traditional Somali name, carried with dignity/boo-RAAN/BurhaanboyArabic Burhān: “proof,” “evidence,” or “clear argument/sign.”/boor-HAAN/BushragirlArabic-derived — good news and glad tidings/BUSH-rah/

C

CaadilboyA fair-minded and just man/AA-dil/CaadilagirlA fair and principled woman/aa-DEE-lah/CaaishagirlArabic-derived: life and living/aa-ee-sha/CaamirboyA flourishing and prosperous child/cah-meer/CaarifboyWise, perceptive, and thoughtful/cah-REEF/CaasimboyArabic-derived name for a protective and steadfast person/CAA-sim/CabdicasiisboyArabic-derived: servant of the Almighty and Beloved/ab-dee-ah-SEES/CabdifataaxboyArabic-derived: servant of the Opener, who brings relief and possibility/ab-dee-fah-TAAKH/CabdijabbaarboyArabic ʿAbd al-Jabbār: “servant of al-Jabbār,” the Compeller/Mighty One./ab-di-jab-BAAR/CabdikaadirboyArabic-derived: servant of the Powerful/ab-dee-kaa-deer/CabdikariimboyArabic-derived: servant of the Most Generous/ab-dee-kah-REEM/CabdimaalikboyA devoted servant of God, the true King and source of dignity/ab-di-MAA-lik/CabdinaasirboyArabic-derived: servant of the Helper and Victor/ab-dee-naa-seer/CabdinasirboyArabic-derived: servant of the Helper and Giver of victory/ab-dee-nah-SEER/CabdirashiidboyArabic-derived: servant of the rightly guided One/ab-dee-rah-SHEED/CabdiraufboyA devoted servant of God, the Most Kind and Compassionate/ab-di-RAOWF/CabdiraxmaanboyArabic-derived: servant of the Most Merciful/ab-dee-rah-MAAN/CabdirisaaqboyA devoted servant of God, the Provider, with a life of generosity/ab-di-ri-SAAQ/CabdisalaamboyArabic-derived: servant of the Source of Peace/ab-dee-sa-laam/CabdisalaanboyArabic-derived: servant of the Source of Peace/ab-dee-sah-LAAN/CabdishakuurboyArabic ʿAbd al-Shakūr: “servant of the Most Appreciative/Most Grateful,” referring to God as al-Shakūr./ab-di-sha-KUUR/CabdubaasitboyArabic ʿAbd al-Bāsiṭ: “servant of the Expander/Enlarger,” referring to God as al-Bāsiṭ./ab-doo-baa-seet/CabdullaahiboyArabic-derived: servant of God; a name expressing devotion and lifelong faithfulness/ab-dool-LAA-hee/CabdulmajiidboyA child devoted to God, the Glorious and Honoured/ab-dool-ma-jeed/CabdulqaadirboyArabic-derived: servant of the All-Powerful/ab-dool-kaa-DEER/CabdulsamadboyArabic-derived: servant of the Eternal Refuge, on whom all depend/ab-dool-sah-MAD/CabdulwaahidboyA child devoted to the One God/ab-dool-waa-heed/CabdulxakiimboyA child devoted to God, the All-Wise/ab-dool-ha-keem/Caliboy[Arabic-derived] Exalted, noble, and held in high regard/AH-lee/CanabgirlA Cushitic Somali name meaning grape, a warm image of sweetness and abundance/CAH-nab/CawadboyArabic ʿAwaḍ/ʿIwāḍ: “compensation,” “replacement,” or “recompense.”/CAH-wad/CawaleboyA traditional Somali name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story/cah-WAH-leh/CawilboyCushitic/Somali: one who comes to help or offer support/CAH-wil/CawlboyGraceful, swift, and gentle in spirit/OW-l/CawogirlSomali form of Hawwa (Eve)./KAH-woh/CaynabogirlA traditional Somali name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story/cay-NAH-bo/CibaadogirlArabic-derived: worship and devoted service to God/chee-BAA-doh/CigaalboyA Somali rendering of Arabic ʿiqāl, associated with a tether/binding and, figuratively, intellect or reason./ee-GAAL/CiiseboyArabic-derived: Jesus, a revered prophet in Islam/CHEE-seh/CismaanboyArabic-derived: chosen servant of God/is-maan/CosobleboyA traditional Somali name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story/ko-SOB-leh/CudbigirlCushitic/Somali — cotton; a gentle, soft image/KOOD-bee/CumarboyArabic-derived: flourishing and long-lived/oo-mar/CuradboyThe beloved firstborn child/koo-RAD/

D

DaahirboyArabic-derived: blessed and pure/daa-heer/DaaroodboyA heritage name honoring an ancestral founder and the family line carried forward./dah-ROOD/DaawuudboyA beloved prophet and a name associated with wisdom and devotion/daa-WUUD/Dacarboy or girlHardy and enduring, with the healing strength of aloe/DAH-char/Dahabogirl[Arabic-derived Somali] Golden, precious, and highly valued/da-HA-bo/DalalgirlArabic-derived; affection, charm, and loving tenderness/da-LAAL/DalaysgirlA traditional Somali name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story/da-LAYS/DaliagirlArabic-derived name meaning a vine or grapevine; it can also refer to a water wheel in Arabic./DAH-lee-ah/DalilagirlArabic-derived name meaning guide, indicator, or proof./da-LEE-la/DalmarboyCushitic/Somali: one who travels across the land/dal-mar/DaniagirlArabic-derived: near, close, or one who draws close/DAH-nee-ah/DaniyalboyA prophetic name expressing trust in God's just judgment/dan-yee-YAAL/DawudboyArabic-derived: David, a beloved prophet and king/DAH-wud/Dayaxboy or girlA child who brings the gentle beauty of moonlight/DAH-yahkh/Dayrboy or girlA blessing that arrives with the nourishing rains/DAIR/DeeqboyA generous gift and a blessing to others/DAYQ/Deeqagirl[Somali] Generous, giving, and richly blessed/DEE-qa/DeeqogirlCushitic Somali: a generous gift or blessing given to the family/DAY-koh/DegmogirlSomali word and female name meaning district, locality, or settled area./DEG-moh/DekagirlA Somali name associated with contentment and satisfaction/DEH-kah/DhaafirboyArabic-derived name meaning victorious, triumphant, or successful./DHAA-fir/DhabancadgirlSomali compound name meaning “white/fair cheek,” from dhaban (cheek) and cad (white)./dha-ban-CAD/DhaganeboyA traditional Somali name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story/dha-GAH-neh/DhamacboyA traditional Somali name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story/DHAH-mak/DheemangirlSomali name/word meaning “diamond” or “precious gem.”/dheh-MAAN/DhiiraneboyBrave-hearted and courageous/dhee-RAH-neh/DhiyaaboyArabic Ḍiyāʾ: “light,” “radiance,” or “illumination.”/dhee-yaa/DucaagirlArabic-derived — a cherished prayer and hopeful blessing/doo-AA/DucaaleboyA Somali male name built on duco, “prayer” or “supplication,” and understood in connection with prayer and blessing./doo-CAH-leh/DuhagirlArabic-derived; the bright morning light/DOO-ha/DuhaagirlThe bright light and freshness of morning/doo-HAA/DuniyagirlArabic-derived: the world and the life within it/doo-NEE-yah/DuniyogirlSomali form of Arabic dunyā: “the world” or “worldly life.”/doo-NEE-yo/DurdurgirlCushitic Somali: a flowing stream, suggesting freshness, life, and grace/DOOR-door/DuulaneboySomali name associated with one who travels or flies; it is connected with duul-, “to travel/fly.”/doo-LAH-neh/

E

F

FaaraxboyA joyful, happy child/FAH-rahkh/FaaruuqboyArabic Fārūq: “one who distinguishes,” especially between truth and falsehood./faa-rook/FaatimagirlArabic Fāṭimah: “one who weans” or “one who abstains/refrains.”/faa-tee-ma/FaatingirlA delightful child whose presence captivates the heart/faa-tin/FadheelagirlArabic-derived; excellence, virtue, and admirable character/fa-DHEE-la/FadliboyArabic-derived: God’s grace, favor, and generous bounty/FAD-lee/FadumogirlArabic-derived: daughter of the Prophet, and a name associated with purity and devotion/fa-doo-mo/FadwagirlArabic Fadwā: “ransom,” “sacrifice,” or “self-sacrifice.”/FAD-wah/FahadboyArabic-derived: a leopard; a spirited and courageous child/FAH-had/FahiimagirlA bright and thoughtful child with a wise understanding/fa-hee-ma/FarahboyArabic faraḥ: “joy,” “delight,” or “happiness.”/FAH-rah/FardowsagirlParadise; the Arabic-derived Somali form of Firdaws./far-DOH-sa/FaridboyArabic-derived: unique, precious, and one of a kind/fa-REED/FarihagirlA joyful, cheerful woman (Arabic-derived)/fa-REE-ha/FariidagirlUnique, singular, precious, or incomparable./fa-REE-da/FarisboyA brave knight with courage and strength/FAH-ris/FartuungirlA fortunate, joyful life filled with happiness/far-TOON/FaruqboyArabic-derived: one who distinguishes truth from falsehood/fah-ROOK/FarxaanboyJoyfully happy/far-KHAAN/Farxadboy or girlHappiness and gladness/far-KHAD/FarxiyagirlA joyful girl who brings happiness/far-KHEE-yah/FarxiyogirlJoy and delight/far-KHEE-yoh/FathiboyArabic-derived: victory, triumph, or a welcome opening toward good things/FAH-thee/FathiyagirlFeminine form connected with fath: opening, conquest, victory, or triumph./fah-TEE-ya/FatimagirlOne who weans an infant; by extension, one who abstains or refrains./FAH-tee-ma/FawazboyArabic-derived: successful, victorious, or prosperous/fah-WAAZ/FawziboySuccessful and victorious/FOW-zee/FawziyagirlA victorious woman whose life is filled with success/fow-ZEE-yah/FaysalboyDecisive judge, arbiter, or one who distinguishes and settles a matter./FAY-sal/FikriyagirlArabic-derived; thoughtful, reflective, and intellectually curious/fik-REE-ya/FilsangirlExcellent, very good, or “the best,” as commonly glossed in Somali naming usage./FIL-san/FuadboyThe criterion or that which distinguishes truth from falsehood./foo-AD/FurqaanboyThe criterion; that which distinguishes truth from falsehood./foor-QAAN/FurqanboyThe criterion; that which distinguishes truth from falsehood./foor-KAHN/

G

Gacalboy or girlA dearly loved child and treasured member of the family./gah-CHAL/GacalisogirlBeloved woman; darling; dear one./ga-ka-LEE-so/GacaliyeboyCushitic/Somali: a beloved or dearly cherished person/gah-cha-LEE-yeh/GacalogirlCushitic/Somali: beloved one or dear companion/ga-ka-lo/GacayteboyTraditional Somali Cushitic name conveying affection and being dearly loved/ga-CHAY-teh/Garaadboy[Cushitic Somali] A wise chief held in respect by the community/ga-RAAD/GeediboyCushitic/Somali: traveller, one who goes from place to place/gay-dee/GeelleboyA child connected with the camel, a treasured source of life and livelihood/GEH-leh/GeesiboyCushitic/Somali: a brave or courageous man/GAY-see/GhalibboyOne who prevails and comes through adversity with strength/GHAH-lib/Ghaniboy[Arabic-derived] Prosperous, secure, and rich in blessings/GHA-nee/Ghaniyagirl[Arabic-derived] Prosperous, fortunate, and richly blessed/gha-NEE-ya/GobaadgirlA beautiful or attractive woman./goh-BAHD/GuduudogirlA Cushitic Somali name describing a rosy or reddish beauty/goo-DOO-doh/GuhaadboyA traditional Somali name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story/goo-HAAD/GuledboySomali/Cushitic: one who brings joy and good fortune/GOO-led/Guulboy or girlSuccess and joyful achievement/GOOL/GuuleedboyA victorious child destined for joyful success/goo-LEED/GuulwadeboyOne who leads the way to victory/goo-ool-WA-deh/GuureygirlSomali/Cushitic: the season of spring or new growth/GOO-rey/

H

HaashimboyA traditional Arabic name associated with generosity and hospitality/HAA-shim/HaboongirlSomali: suitable, fitting, proper, or appropriate./ha-BOON/HadiboyArabic-derived: guide or one who leads toward what is right/HAA-dee/HafidagirlArabic: granddaughter./ha-FEE-da/HafizagirlArabic: guardian, keeper, or a woman who has memorized the Qur'an./ha-FEE-za/HafsagirlAn Arabic-derived name meaning young lioness, suggesting courage and spirited strength/HAF-sah/HajargirlA traditional Somali name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story/HA-jar/HakamboyArabic: judge, arbiter, or one who decides between parties./HAH-kam/HalagirlArabic: a halo or ring of light around the moon./HA-la/HalimagirlArabic-derived: gentle and patient/ha-LEE-ma/HamdiyagirlA daughter who inspires praise and thankful happiness/ham-DEE-yah/HamidboyArabic: praiseworthy or praised./ha-MEED/HamidagirlArabic: praiseworthy, praised, or worthy of praise./ha-MEE-da/HammadboyArabic-derived: one who praises God often/HAM-mad/HamzaboyStrong and courageous like a lion/HAM-zah/HanagirlArabic: happiness, bliss, or enjoyment./HA-na/HanaangirlTender, compassionate, and gentle/ha-NAAN/HaneengirlTender longing and deep affection (Arabic-derived)/ha-NEEN/HanigirlArabic: happy, content, or at ease./HAH-nee/HanifagirlArabic: a woman who is upright in faith; a monotheist or adherent of the true religion./ha-NEE-fa/HaniifagirlSomali spelling variant of Hanifa: upright in faith; a female monotheist./hah-NEE-fah/HaniingirlArabic-derived — tender-hearted affection and heartfelt longing/ha-NEEN/HaniyagirlArabic-derived: joyful and full of happiness/ha-NEE-ya/HaniyogirlA Somali female form related to Arabic Hani, meaning happy, content, or at ease./ha-NEE-yo/Hantigirl[Cushitic Somali] Wealth and material prosperity/HAN-ti/HarunboyArabic-derived: Aaron, an honored prophet/ha-ROON/HaruunboyArabic-derived: Aaron, a prophet remembered for leadership and eloquence/ha-ROON/HasnagirlArabic-derived; beautiful in appearance and character/HAS-na/HassanboyArabic-derived: gracious and generous/HAS-san/HawogirlArabic-derived: life, or one who lives/haa-wo/HayagirlArabic: modesty, shyness, or decency./HA-ya/HibaaqgirlA traditional Somali name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story/hi-BAAQ/HibogirlArabic-derived: a gift bestowed by God/HEE-boh/HilaacboyA child born during a striking flash of lightning/hee-LAHK/HilalboyA hopeful new moon and a sign of new beginnings/hi-LAAL/HilmiboyArabic-derived: forbearing, patient, and gentle/HIL-mee/HindagirlArabic Hind: India; historically also “one hundred camels.” It does not mean a noble or honored woman./HIN-dah/HirsiboySomali: protection, safeguarding, or guardianship./HIR-see/HishamboyArabic-derived: generous and open-handed/hi-SHAAM/HodangirlA flourishing, fortunate child/HOH-dan/HudagirlAn Arabic-derived name meaning guidance, a warm wish for a life led wisely/HOO-dah/HumaamboyArabic: high-minded, courageous, resolute, or ambitious./hoo-MAAM/HuriyagirlArabic-derived: a radiant heavenly maiden/hoo-REE-yah/HuriyegirlArabic-derived: a heavenly maiden or houri./hoo-REE-yeh/HusnagirlArabic: most beautiful, best, or finest./HOOS-na/HusnaagirlArabic: most beautiful, best, or finest./hoos-naa/HusseinboyArabic-derived: handsome and good/hoo-SAIN/

I

IbraahimboyArabic-derived: God will increase him/ib-raa-heem/IbraargirlArabic: righteousness, piety, virtue, or dutiful goodness./ib-raar/IbrahimboyArabic-derived: devoted to God; a prophet's name/ib-ra-HEEM/IbtihalgirlArabic-derived; heartfelt prayer and devoted appeal to God/ib-ti-HAAL/IbtisamgirlArabic: smile./ib-ti-SAAM/IdilgirlA Somali-used name meaning complete, whole, or perfect/EE-dil/IdirisboySomali form of Idris, the name of a Qur’anic prophet./ee-DEE-ris/IfraaxgirlJoy, gladness, and a life full of celebration/if-RAAKH/IfrahgirlA child who fills the family with joy/IF-rah/IftingirlCushitic/Somali: light, brightness, and hope/IF-tin/IhsanboyArabic-derived: kindness, excellence, and doing what is beautiful and good/ih-SAAN/Iimaanboy or girlArabic-derived: faith, trust in God, and a believing heart/ee-MAAN/IkhlaasgirlArabic: sincerity, purity of intention, or devotion./ikh-LAAS/Ikraamboy or girlHonor, kindness, and generous devotion/ik-RAAM/Ikraangirl[Arabic-derived] Honor, generosity, and respect/ik-RAAN/IkramgirlArabic: honor, honoring, generosity, or hospitality./ik-RAHM/IlaysboyA ray of light and hope/i-LAYS/IlhaamgirlArabic: inspiration, intuition, or divine inspiration./il-HAAM/IlhaangirlSomali-used form of Ilham, meaning inspiration or intuition./il-HAAN/IlhamgirlArabic-derived — inspiration and revelation/IL-ham/IlwaadgirlSomali: beautiful, lovely, or attractive./il-WAAD/ImadboyArabic-derived: a strong support, pillar, or dependable foundation/ee-MAAD/ImraanboyFlourishing, prosperity, or long life; also the Qur'anic name of Mary's father./im-RAAN/IntisaargirlVictory, triumph./in-ti-saar/IqbalboyArabic-derived: prosperity, success, and good fortune/ik-BAAL/IqragirlRead!; recite!/IK-rah/IsaaqboyA name honoring an ancestral forefather and the continuity of generations./ee-SAAK/IskandarboyArabic and Persian form of Alexander, ultimately meaning “defender of people/mankind.”/is-kan-DAHR/IsmaaciilboyArabic-derived: God will hear/is-maa-eel/IsmailboyArabic-derived: God hears; a prophet's name/is-ma-EEL/IsniinboyA child born on Monday/is-NEEN/IsragirlArabic-derived — the night journey; a name suggesting wonder and spiritual aspiration/IS-rah/IsxaaqboyArabic form of Isaac, ultimately from Hebrew, traditionally understood as “he laughs.”/is-KHAHK/

J

JaabirboyArabic-derived name suggesting resilience, healing, and inner strength/JAA-bir/JaamacboyArabic-derived: one who gathers people together; a unifying presence/JAA-mak/JabirboyMender, restorer, consoler./JAA-bir/JafarboyA small stream or rivulet./JA-faer/JalaalboyArabic-derived name expressing dignity, greatness, and noble presence/jah-LAAL/JalalboyArabic-derived: majesty, dignity, and honored presence/ja-LAAL/JaliilboyMajestic, honored, and distinguished/ja-LEEL/JaliilagirlMajestic, honored, and noble in spirit/ja-LEE-la/JalilagirlMajestic, exalted, venerable, distinguished./ja-LEE-la/JamaboyGatherer, one who brings together; commonly a shortened or transliterated form of Jaamac./JAH-mah/JamaalboyBeauty, grace, and good character/ja-MAAL/JamiilboyBeautiful, handsome, fair./ja-meel/JamiilagirlBeautiful, graceful, and radiant/ja-MEE-la/JannatgirlArabic-derived: paradise, a name filled with hope for eternal happiness/JAN-nat/JawaadboyGenerous-hearted and noble/ja-WAAD/JawaahirgirlJewels, precious stones./ja-WAA-hir/JibriilboyArabic form of Gabriel, the angel and messenger of God./jib-REEL/JiilaalboyA child born during the dry season/jee-LAHL/JimcaaleboyA son born on Friday, the blessed day of the week/jim-KAA-leh/JimcoboyA child born on Friday/JIM-koh/JowharboyJewel, precious stone; also essence or substance./JOH-wahr/JowharagirlArabic-derived: jewel or precious gem/joh-WHAH-rah/JumanagirlArabic: a pearl; a precious and beautiful daughter/ju-MA-na/JunaidboyArabic-derived: a young soldier; a name evoking bravery and service/joo-NAYD/JuweeriyagirlArabic Juwairiya/Juwayriya: young girl or young woman; a diminutive form related to jāriya./joo-WAY-ree-yah/

K

KaahagirlA traditional Somali name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story/KAA-ha/KaamilboyArabic-derived name wishing a child wholeness, goodness, and completeness/KAA-mil/KahinboyArabic kāhin: soothsayer, diviner, or oracle./KAH-hin/KahiyeboyA traditional Somali name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story/ka-HEE-yeh/KaltuungirlSomali form of Arabic Kulthum/Kulthūm, traditionally understood as full-faced or having full cheeks./kal-TOON/Kamaalboy[Arabic-derived] Complete in character and endowed with admirable qualities/ka-MAAL/Kariimboy[Arabic-derived] Generous in spirit and noble in character/ka-REEM/Kariimagirl[Arabic-derived] A generous and noble-hearted woman/ka-REE-ma/KawsargirlAbundant goodness and blessings without measure/KOW-sar/KhaalidboyEverlasting and enduring; a wish for a long and blessed life/KHAA-lid/KhaalidagirlEverlasting and enduring, with a life filled with blessings/KHAA-li-dah/Khadarboy[Arabic-derived] Green, flourishing, and full of renewed life/KHA-dar/KhadiijogirlArabic-derived: gentle and patient/kha-dee-jo/KhadijagirlArabic-derived: pure and virtuous/kha-DEE-ja/KhadragirlAn Arabic-derived name meaning verdant or flourishing, with associations of freshness and life/KHAD-rah/KhalafboyArabic Khalaf: successor, descendant, replacement, or one who comes after./KHAH-laf/KhalidboyArabic-derived: enduring, lasting, and steadfast/KHAA-lid/KhaliilboyArabic-derived: a dear and faithful friend/kha-LEEL/KhamiisboyA son born on Thursday/kha-MEES/KhayrboyGoodness and blessing in the family/KHAIR/KhayriyagirlA good and blessed child who brings joy/khair-REE-yah/KowboySomali kow: one, first; when used as a name, it can refer to a first-born child./KOH/

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LabaadboySomali labaad: second; when used as a name, it can refer to a second-born child./la-BAHD/LadangirlA Somali-used female name, often associated with softness or gentleness; its deeper etymology and classification are not certain./LAH-dan/LadiifboyGentle, kind, and gracious/la-DEEF/LadiifagirlA gentle, kind, and gracious woman/la-DEE-fa/LamiagirlArabic Lamyaa/Lamia: a woman with dark lips, traditionally regarded as a mark of beauty./LA-mi-ya/LamiisgirlArabic Lamīs/Lamis: soft, smooth, or pleasant to the touch./la-MEES/LaylagirlArabic-derived; literally “night.”/LAY-la/LeylagirlArabic-derived variant of Layla; literally “night.”/LAY-lah/LibaanboySuccessful, prosperous, and destined to thrive/lee-BAAN/LibaaxboyBrave and strong-hearted like a lion/lee-BAAKH/LibanboySomali/Cushitic: the beloved one/LEE-ban/LibinboyTriumphant and able to achieve great things/LEE-bin/LinagirlArabic-derived; “tender” or “soft,” and also associated with a young palm tree./LEE-na/LoyaanboySomali; “fortunate” or “lucky.”/loh-YAAN/LuayboyArabic-derived; traditionally linked to a small wild ox or wild bovine./LOO-ay/LubnagirlArabic-derived; “pearl.”/LOOB-nah/LulwagirlArabic-derived; “pearl.”/LUL-wa/LuqmaanboyA Quranic name associated with wisdom and thoughtful judgment/look-MAAN/LuukmaanboySomali spelling variant of Luqman, the Quranic sage associated with wisdom./look-MAAN/Luulgirl[Arabic-derived] A precious pearl, symbolizing beauty and value/LOOL/

M

Maalikboy[Arabic-derived] A kingly person, born to lead with dignity/MAA-lik/MaandeeqgirlTraditional Somali name associated with a milk-rich female camel; also a poetic name for Somalia./maan-DEEK/MaariyagirlArabic Islamic name, a Somali rendering of Mariya/Māriyah; traditionally associated with a fair or bright appearance./maa-REE-ya/MabrukagirlA blessed child and a source of good fortune/ma-BROO-ka/MacruufboyArabic-derived; “known,” “recognized,” or “that which is good/right.”/mak-ROOF/MadihagirlArabic-derived — worthy of praise and admiration/mah-DEE-hah/MadiinagirlArabic-derived — the holy city of Medina/mah-DEE-nah/MaganboyA child who brings shelter, safety, and a welcoming home./MAH-gan/MagoolgirlTraditional Somali female name meaning “flower.”/mah-GOOL/MahagirlArabic-derived; “oryx/wild cow,” conventionally associated with beautiful eyes./MA-ha/MahadboyArabic-derived: praise and thanksgiving/MAH-had/MahbuubagirlDeeply loved and treasured/mah-BOO-bah/MahdiboyArabic-derived: rightly guided and devoted to a good path/MAHD-ee/MahirboyArabic-derived: skilled, capable, and accomplished/MAA-hir/MaimuunagirlBlessed, fortunate, and surrounded by goodness/may-MOO-na/Majidboy[Arabic-derived] Glorious, respected, and worthy of admiration/ma-JEED/MalakgirlArabic-derived; “angel.”/MA-lak/Malikagirl[Arabic-derived] Queenly, confident, and born to lead/ma-LEE-ka/MalyuungirlSomali/Arabic-derived usage of “million.”/mal-YOON/MansurboyVictorious and supported in overcoming every challenge/MAN-soor/Mansuurboy[Arabic-derived] Victorious and honored through achievement/man-SOOR/MaramgirlA cherished aspiration and hope for the future/MA-ram/MarwagirlArabic-derived; “flint stone,” and the name of the sacred hill al-Marwah in Mecca./MAR-wah/MarwanboyArabic-derived: flintstone (and, in some lexical explanations, a fragrant plant)./MAR-wan/MarwogirlA Somali name meaning lady or respected woman/MAR-woh/MarxabogirlSomali: welcome; used as a female given name./mar-KHA-bo/MaryangirlArabic-derived: beloved and exalted/MAR-yan/Mataanboy or girlA precious twin/ma-TAHN/MawaddagirlArabic-derived; loving affection and warm fellowship/ma-WAD-da/MaxamedboyArabic-derived: highly praised/ma-kha-med/MaxamuudboyArabic-derived: worthy of praise and appreciation/mah-KHA-mood/MaysaagirlArabic: one who walks with a proud or graceful swaying gait./MAY-sa/MaysuungirlA graceful and lovely child with a gentle presence/may-soon/MiqdaadboyArabic: measure, quantity, or amount; the name is also associated with the Prophet's companion al-Miqdad./mik-daad/MireboyOften understood as “dignity and lineage.”/MEE-reh/MohamedboyArabic-derived: the praised one/mo-HAM-ed/MowliidboyA son born during a Mawlid celebration/mow-LEED/MuadhboyArabic: protected, sheltered, or safeguarded./MOO-aadh/MuawiyaboyArabic historical male name, famously borne by the Umayyad caliph Mu'awiya; it is not a devotional virtue-name meaning faith and goodness./moo-aa-WI-ya/MubaarakboyBlessed and welcomed with joy/moo-BAA-rak/MubashirboyArabic: bearer or bringer of good news/glad tidings./moo-ba-SHEER/MubashiragirlA joyful messenger who brings encouraging news and hope/moo-ba-SHEE-ra/MubinagirlArabic feminine form: clear, manifest, evident, or clarifying./moo-BEE-nah/MucaawiyaboySomali spelling of Arabic Mu'awiya, an Arabic historical male name rather than a name meaning heritage and devotion./moo-aa-wee-ya/MudathirboyA name recalling the Qur’anic address to the one wrapped in a mantle/moo-DAH-thir/MujahidboyA determined person who strives bravely for what is right/moo-JAH-hid/MujtababoyA treasured child, specially chosen and cherished/muj-TA-ba/Mukhtaarboy[Arabic-derived] Chosen and treasured/mookh-TAAR/MunagirlA cherished wish and a child of hopeful dreams/MOO-na/MunawwarboyArabic-derived name meaning radiant, enlightened, and full of light/moo-NAW-war/MuniirboyA bright child who brings light to the family/moo-neer/MuniirogirlA radiant woman whose presence brightens the lives of others/moo-NEE-ro/MunirboyA bright presence who brings light to others/moo-NEER/MuniragirlArabic-derived — radiant, illuminating, and full of light/moo-NEE-rah/Muntasirboy[Arabic-derived] One who achieves victory and success/moon-tah-SIR/MuradboyArabic-derived: wish, desire, or something longed for./moo-RAHD/MursalboyArabic-derived: one who is sent with a purpose or entrusted with a mission/MOOR-sal/MusabboyArabic-derived name meaning difficult, hard, or one who endures hardship; also the name of a prominent early Muslim companion./MOO-sab/MustafaboyArabic-derived: the chosen one; selected./mus-TA-fa/MustafaaboySomali/Arabic spelling of Mustafa, meaning “the chosen one” or “selected.”/moos-TAH-faa/MustafeboySomali form of Mustafa, from Arabic: “the chosen one” or “selected.”/moos-TAH-feh/MuuseboySomali form of Musa/Moses, the name of the prophet Moses./MOO-seh/

N

NaadiyagirlArabic-derived female name associated with dew, freshness, tenderness, or delicacy; it may also be related to “caller.”/naa-DI-ya/Nabadboy or girlPeace and harmony/NAH-bad/NabiilboyArabic-derived: noble, distinguished, high-born./nah-BEEL/NabilboyArabic-derived: noble, distinguished, high-born./na-BEEL/NabilagirlArabic-derived — noble in character and generous in spirit/nah-BEE-lah/NaciimboyArabic-derived: bliss, comfort, ease, well-being, or a life of pleasure./na-CEEM/NaciimagirlArabic-derived: blessed ease, happiness, and spiritual comfort/nah-CHEE-ma/NadiifboySomali name and word meaning clean, pure, or neat./nah-DEEF/NadiifagirlArabic-derived feminine form meaning clean, pure, or neat./nah-DEE-fah/NadiifogirlSomali feminine form of Nadiif/Nadiifa, meaning clean or pure./nah-DEE-foh/NadiiragirlArabic-derived — precious, rare, and exceptional/nah-DEE-rah/NadiyagirlArabic-derived female name associated with dew, freshness, tenderness, or delicacy; it may also be related to “caller.”/nah-DEE-yah/NadwagirlArabic-derived: a gathering, assembly, council, or meeting./NAD-wa/Nafisagirl[Arabic-derived] Precious, delicate, and valuable/na-FEE-sa/NajahgirlSuccessful and determined to reach her goals/NAH-jah/NajaxgirlA successful child who brings pride and happiness/NAH-jakh/NajiboyArabic-derived: saved, safe, rescued, or one who survives./NAA-jee/Najibboy[Arabic-derived] Distinguished, honorable, and noble in character/na-JEEB/NajiibagirlA noble woman admired for her character and dignity/na-JEE-ba/NajiyagirlArabic-derived feminine name meaning saved, safe, rescued, or survivor./NAJ-i-ya/NajlagirlArabic-derived — bright-eyed and strikingly beautiful/NAJ-lah/NajmagirlA shining star in the family/NAJ-ma/NajwagirlArabic-derived: secret conversation, confidential discourse, or intimate whispering./NAJ-wah/NasiibboyGood fortune and a happy destiny/na-SEEB/NasmagirlArabic-derived; a gentle, refreshing breeze/NAS-ma/NasrboyVictory and triumph/NASS-er/NasragirlVictory, help, and the strength to prevail/NAHS-rah/NasteexogirlA woman whose words offer wise and caring counsel/nas-TEE-ho/NawaalgirlArabic Nawāl: gift, bestowal, favor, or attainment./na-WAAL/NawalgirlArabic-derived — a gift, blessing, or graceful favor/nah-WAHL/NawfalboyArabic Nawfal: generous, beneficent, or a gift/bounty./NAW-fal/Naxariisboy or girlA compassionate person who treats others with mercy/nah-ha-REES/NimcogirlArabic-derived in origin but deeply established in Somali: blessing, favor, and good fortune/NIM-koh/NucmaanboySomali form of Arabic Nuʿmān; associated with blessing/favor, and in Arabic also with the anemone and reddish color./noo-MAAN/NurboyArabic-derived: light and radiance/NOOR/NusaybagirlArabic-derived: a strong and honored woman’s name, associated with courage and devotion/nu-SAY-ba/Nuurboy or girlA child who fills the family with light/NOOR/NuuradiinboyLight of the faith/noo-ra-DEEN/NuuxboyThe Arabic form of Noah, a prophetic name associated with perseverance and comfort/NOOH/

O

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RaageboySomali: long-lived, enduring, or one who has lived a long time./RAA-geh/RababgirlArabic-derived; a soft white cloud and a symbol of purity/RA-bab/RabiyagirlArabic Rabīʿa/Rabiya: spring; the name is also historically associated with “the fourth.”/ra-BI-ya/RafiboyArabic-derived: elevated, noble, and honored/RAH-fee/RafiqboyArabic-derived: a loyal companion or friend/rah-FEEK/RaghadgirlA life of comfort, happiness, and abundance (Arabic-derived)/RA-ghad/RagibboyDesirous, willing, or one who seeks/asp ires to something./RAA-gib/RahafgirlDelicate, fine, or gentle./RA-haf/RahiimboyMerciful, compassionate./ra-heem/RahimagirlMerciful, compassionate./ra-HEE-ma/RahmagirlArabic-derived: mercy and kindness/RAH-ma/RaihanagirlFragrant basil, sweet herb, or a fragrant flower./ray-HA-na/RajabboyA son born during the month of Rajab/RAH-jab/Rajoboy or girlHope for a bright and happy future/RAH-joh/RamadaanboyA son born during the holy month of Ramadan/ra-ma-DAHN/RaniagirlOne who gazes attentively; looking intently./RAH-nee-a/RaqiibboyWatchful, observing, vigilant./ra-KEEB/RashadboyRight guidance, sound judgment, or rectitude./rah-SHAHD/RashiidboyA wise man guided toward what is right/rah-SHEED/RashiidagirlA wise woman with sound judgment/rah-SHEE-dah/RaufboyArabic-derived: kind, compassionate, and gentle/RA-ouf/RawangirlA widely used Arabic feminine name whose exact lexical origin is disputed; popular explanations connect it with flowing or running./RA-wan/RaxmagirlArabic-derived: mercy, compassion, and God’s tender grace/RAKH-ma/RaxmaanboyMerciful, compassionate, and tender-hearted/rakh-MAAN/RayanboyArabic-derived: well-watered, flourishing, and blessed; also associated with a gate of paradise/RAH-yan/Rayhaanboy or girlA fragrant and refreshing presence in the family/ray-HAAN/ReemgirlWhite gazelle./REEM/RidwaanboyArabic-derived: God’s pleasure and the contentment of a faithful heart/rid-WAAN/RihamgirlGentle rain bringing refreshment and blessing (Arabic-derived)/ree-HAAM/RiyadboyArabic-derived: gardens and green, flourishing places/ree-YAAD/RoobboyRain./ROOB/RoobdoonboyOne who seeks or longs for rain/roob-DOHN/RoobleboyA child born with the blessing of rain/ROHB-leh/RoodagirlArabic-derived — a garden, meadow, or flourishing place/ROH-dah/RuqiyagirlRuqayya/Ruqiya is traditionally connected with rising or ascent; it is also the name of the Prophet Muhammad's daughter./roo-KEE-yah/RuqiyogirlSomali form of Ruqiya/Ruqayya, traditionally connected with rising or ascent./roo-QEE-yoh/RuungirlBeautiful and graceful/ROON/

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SaabiiragirlA patient and resilient woman/sah-BEE-rah/SaabirboyArabic-derived: patient, steadfast, and trusting in God’s timing/SAA-bir/SaabiragirlArabic-derived: patient, steadfast, and faithful through life’s trials/SAA-bi-ra/SaadiqboyA sincere and truthful man/SAH-diq/SaadiqagirlA sincere and honest woman/sah-DEE-qah/SaadogirlFortunate, happy, and blessed with a good destiny/SAA-do/Saafiboy or girlPure-hearted, sincere, and clear in spirit/SAA-fee/SaalaxboyA good-hearted and righteous man/SAH-lakh/SaalihboyGood, virtuous, and kind-hearted/SAA-lih/SaalimboySafe, peaceful, and sound in body and spirit/SAA-lim/SaalimagirlSafe, peaceful, and blessed with well-being/SAA-li-mah/SaalixagirlA woman of goodness and upright character/sah-LEE-khah/SaamiirboyEvening companion; one who engages in pleasant conversation./saa-MEER/SaamiyagirlAn Arabic-derived name meaning exalted or elevated in status and character/saa-MEE-yah/SabagirlArabic ṣabā: a gentle easterly wind or breeze, often poetically associated with morning—not an evening breeze./SAH-bah/SabirboyPatient, resilient, and steadfast through life’s trials/SAH-bir/SabiragirlPatient, enduring, and quietly strong/SAH-bee-rah/SabringirlArabic-derived: patience and steadfastness through faith/sah-BREEN/SacdboyA fortunate and joyful child who brings happiness/sa-ad/SaciidboyHappy, fortunate, and blessed/sa-EED/SaciidagirlHappy, fortunate, and blessed/sa-EE-da/SafagirlArabic-derived: pure-hearted, serene, and clear in spirit/SAH-fa/SafiyagirlArabic-derived: pure and chosen/sa-FEE-ya/SafwaanboyArabic Ṣafwān: a smooth rock or stone; it is also an established male personal name./saf-WAAN/SafwanboyArabic Ṣafwān: a smooth rock or stone; an established male name./SAF-wahn/SagalgirlSomali/Cushitic: the one who comes after a difficult time/SA-gal/SahalboyArabic sahl: easy, gentle, smooth, or level./SAH-hal/SahargirlArabic-derived; the calm beauty of the hours before dawn/SA-har/SahragirlStrong, enduring, and beautiful like the desert landscape/SAH-ra/SaidboyArabic-derived: fortunate and blessed/sa-EED/SajidboyArabic-derived: devoted in prayer and humble before God/SAA-jid/SakiinagirlPeaceful, calm, and serene/sa-KEE-na/SakinagirlA calm and peaceful woman who brings serenity to others/sah-KEE-nah/SalaadboySomali Salaad, from Arabic ṣalāh, means prayer or ritual prayer./sah-LAAD/SalmagirlA peaceful and serene woman/SAHL-mah/SalmaanboyArabic-derived: peaceful and secure/sal-MAAN/SalsabilgirlArabic-derived: a pure, refreshing spring and a beautiful promise of Paradise/sal-sa-BEEL/SalwagirlA comforting presence and a source of solace/SAL-wa/SamaaleboyA powerful heritage name honoring Somali ancestry and the generations that came before./sah-MAH-leh/SamahgirlArabic-derived; generosity, forgiveness, and a gracious heart/sa-MAAH/SamakaabboyA traditional Somali name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story/sah-mah-KAAB/SamargirlArabic-derived — warm companionship and gentle evening conversation/SAH-mar/SamatarboyA child who strengthens the family and stands faithfully beside others./sah-MAH-tar/SamiboyArabic-derived: elevated and noble/SAA-mee/SamihagirlGenerous, gracious, and forgiving/sa-MEE-ha/SamiirboyA pleasant companion whose conversation brings warmth and happiness/sah-MEER/SamiiragirlArabic-derived: an uplifting and pleasant companion/sah-MEE-rah/SamirboyArabic-derived: cheerful and companionable/sa-MEER/SamiragirlAn Arabic-derived name meaning pleasant companion in evening conversation/sah-MEE-rah/SamogirlA good and peaceful woman, bringing harmony to those around her/SAH-mo/SareedogirlA traditional Somali name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story/sa-RAY-do/SawsangirlArabic-derived — a fragrant lily or flower/SAW-san/SeynabgirlArabic-derived form of Zaynab, traditionally the name of a fragrant flowering plant./SAY-nab/ShabeelboyAgile, courageous, and powerful/sha-BEEL/ShacbaanboyA son born during the month of Sha'ban/shahb-BAHN/ShadiyagirlArabic-derived: a female singer, chanter, or one who sings melodiously./sha-DEE-ya/ShahdgirlArabic-derived: honey./SHAHD/ShahidagirlArabic-derived: female witness; it can also be understood as “one who testifies.”/sha-HEE-da/ShahiidagirlArabic-derived: female martyr./sha-HEE-da/ShakirboyArabic-derived: thankful and appreciative/SHAA-kir/Shamsiboy or girlA warm, bright presence who brings light to others/SHAM-see/ShamsogirlSomali/Cushitic: a ray of sunshine/SHAM-so/Sharafboy[Arabic-derived] Honor, dignity, and a respected name/SHA-raf/Shariifboy[Arabic-derived] Noble, honorable, and held in high esteem/sha-REEF/Shariifagirl[Arabic-derived] Noble, dignified, and deeply respected/sha-REE-fa/SharmaarkeboyTraditional Somali name borne by historic leaders and families/shar-MAAR-keh/SharmarkeboyA documented spelling variant of Sharmaarke, a traditional Somali male name./shar-MAR-keh/ShifaagirlHealing, restoration, and well-being (Arabic-derived)/shi-FAA/ShireboyA child who brings people together in family, fellowship, and shared purpose./SHEE-reh/ShuaibboyArabic form of Shuʿayb, the prophet mentioned in the Quran./SHOO-ayb/Shukriboy or girlArabic-derived: gratitude and heartfelt thanks to God/SHOOK-ree/ShukriyagirlA daughter received with grateful joy/shook-REE-yah/SidragirlArabic-derived: lote tree; it may evoke the Quranic Sidrat al-Muntahā, the lote tree of the utmost boundary./SID-ra/SiraadgirlA Somali-used female name associated with light or a lamp; its use may overlap in sense with Arabic Sirāj./si-RAAD/SiraajboyA guiding light and source of hope/si-RAAJ/SucaadgirlAn Arabic-derived name meaning happiness and good fortune/soo-AAD/SufyanboyA traditional Somali name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story/SOOF-yan/SugangirlSomali: secure, firm, assured, or certain./SOO-gan/SugeboyTraditional Somali male name; related to Somali sug-, “to wait for” or “to expect.”/SOO-geh/SugulleboyA traditional Somali name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story/soo-GOOL-leh/SuhagirlArabic: a small star or celestial light; a gentle, luminous name/SU-ha/SuhaybboyArabic male name, traditionally associated with Suhayb al-Rūmī, a Companion of the Prophet Muhammad./soo-HAYB/SulaymaanboyThe Arabic form of Solomon, associated with peace and wise leadership/soo-lay-MAAN/Suldaanboy[Arabic-derived] A ruler with authority, dignity, and honor/sul-DAAN/Suldaanagirl[Arabic-derived] A queenly woman of authority and distinction/sul-DAA-na/SuleymaanboyArabic-derived: a form of Solomon, traditionally associated with wisdom and peace/soo-lay-MAAN/SumayagirlA traditional Somali name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story/soo-MAY-yah/SumayogirlExalted or high-ranking; a Somali/Arabic form of Sumayya./soo-MY-oh/SundusgirlAn Arabic-derived Quranic name meaning fine silk, suggesting beauty and preciousness/SOON-doos/SurayagirlArabic-derived: the Pleiades, a beautiful cluster of stars/soo-RAY-yah/SuubangirlA virtuous, kind-hearted woman with admirable character/SOO-ban/

T

TaajirboyMerchant, trader, or businessman./TAA-jir/TaalibboyA lifelong seeker of knowledge and truth/TAA-lib/TahaboyA Quranic male name formed from the disconnected letters Ta-Ha; it has no settled lexical meaning./TAA-ha/TahirboyArabic-derived: pure, wholesome, and sincere/TAA-hir/TahiragirlPure, clean, chaste, or virtuous./ta-HEE-ra/TalhaboyA type of tree; the precise botanical identification is disputed, commonly rendered as an acacia or banana tree./TAL-ha/TamiimboyComplete, perfect, sound, or strong./ta-meem/TamimboyComplete, perfect, sound, or strong./tah-MEEM/TaqiboyArabic-derived: devout, God-conscious, and virtuous/TAH-kee/TaqwagirlA deeply faithful and God-conscious heart (Arabic-derived)/TAK-wa/TariifboyRare, unusual, novel, or distinctive; it can also carry a sense of elegance./ta-reef/TariqboyNight visitor; in Quranic usage, a piercing/brilliant night star./TAA-riq/TasnimgirlThe name of a spring or fountain in Paradise, mentioned in the Quran./tas-NEEM/TawakalgirlArabic-derived: trust and reliance on God/tah-wah-KAL/TawfiiqboyArabic-derived name expressing success and blessings in one’s endeavors/taw-FEEK/TawfiqboyArabic-derived: divine favor, success, and good fortune/taw-FEEQ/TawhidagirlOneness or unity, especially the oneness of God; monotheism./taw-HEE-da/TaybagirlGood-hearted, wholesome, and pure in character/TAY-ba/TaysiirboyEase, facilitation, or making something easy./tay-SEER/TaysirboyEase, facilitation, or making something easy./TAY-seer/ThabitboySteadfast, dependable, and unshaken/THAH-bit/ThabitagirlA steadfast girl with enduring inner strength/thah-BEE-tah/ThamirboyFruit-bearing, fruitful, or productive./THAA-mir/ThurayyagirlA bright and beautiful constellation in the night sky/thoo-RAY-ya/TimacaddeboyWhite-haired; literally “white hair” (timo cadde)./tee-mah-CAH-deh/ToganeboyA traditional Somali name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story/to-GAA-neh/TuhfagirlA precious gift and blessing to the family/TOOF-a/TukaaleboyA traditional Somali name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story/too-KAA-leh/

U

W

WaaberiboyA child who arrived at dawn, bringing a new beginning/waa-BEH-ree/WaajidboyArabic Wājid: “one who finds” or “perceiver”; it can also carry senses such as possessing/being affluent./WAA-jid/WaasiicboyArabic wāsiʿ: broad, spacious, wide, or ample./waa-see/Wacanboy or girlGood, gracious, and wonderful/WA-kan/WacdarboySomali: wonder, amazement, or striking spectacle; depending on context it can also suggest commotion/tumult./WAK-dar/WafaagirlLoyalty, faithfulness, and keeping one’s promises (Arabic-derived)/wa-FAA/WahidboyArabic-derived: unique, independent, and one of a kind/WAA-hid/WajihagirlArabic-derived — honored, respected, and admirable/wah-JEE-hah/WajiidagirlArabic Wajīda/Wajida: one who finds or perceives; the name can also be associated with deep feeling./wa-JEE-da/WalaagirlArabic-derived; loyalty, friendship, and wholehearted devotion/wa-LAA/WaleedboyArabic-derived: a newborn child, welcomed with joy/wah-LEED/Waliboy[Arabic-derived] A caring protector and dependable companion/WAH-lee/WaliidboyVariant spelling of Walid/Waleed, from Arabic walīd: “newborn child” or “infant.”/wa-LEED/WaranleboyCushitic: a traditional Somali name associated with a spear-bearer and courage/wa-RAN-leh/WardagirlA beautiful and cherished rose/WAR-da/WarfaboyA traditional Somali name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story/WAR-fah/WarisgirlArabic-derived Waris/Wārith: heir or inheritor./WAH-ris/WarsameboySomali/Cushitic: good fortune and success/war-SA-meh/WarsangirlA Somali female name associated with good news; it is built on war, “news.”/war-SAN/WeheliyeboyTraditional Somali name expressing companionship and loyal presence/weh-HEL-lyeh/WidaadgirlAffectionate, loving, and warm-hearted/wi-DAAD/WiilwaalboySomali/Cushitic: young man or youth/WEEL-waal/WisalgirlArabic wiṣāl: union, joining, closeness, or reunion./wi-SAAL/

X

Y

Z

ZahidagirlArabic-derived; devout, conscientious, and devoted to faith/za-HEE-da/ZahirboyArabic-derived: radiant, visible, and shining/ZAA-hir/ZahragirlA radiant child who blossoms beautifully/ZAH-ra/ZakariyeboySomali form of Arabic Zakariyyāʾ/Zachariah, the name of a prophet; traditionally interpreted as “God remembers.”/zah-kah-REE-yeh/ZakiboyIntelligent, virtuous, and pure in character/ZAH-kee/ZakiyagirlAn Arabic-derived name meaning pure, virtuous, and spiritually admirable/zah-KEE-yah/ZamzamgirlAn Arabic-derived name associated with the sacred Zamzam well in Mecca/ZAM-zam/ZaydboyArabic name meaning “increase,” “growth,” or “abundance.”/ZAYD/ZaynabgirlA traditional Somali name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story/ZAY-nab/ZeynabgirlSomali/Arabic spelling variant of Zaynab; a traditional female name with disputed etymology, often associated with a fragrant flowering plant or “father’s adornment.”/ZAY-nab/ZubayrboyArabic masculine name, traditionally understood as a diminutive related to strength; also the name of the Prophet’s companion al-Zubayr ibn al-Awwam./zoo-BAYR/ZubeydagirlArabic feminine name meaning “little butter,” and by extension “the finest part,” “essence,” or “choice one.”/zoo-BAY-dah/ZubeyrboySomali/Arabic spelling variant of Zubayr, a masculine name traditionally linked to strength and borne by al-Zubayr ibn al-Awwam./zoo-BAYR/ZuhairboyArabic masculine name, commonly explained as “little flower” or “bright/blossoming one.”/zoo-HAIR/ZuhayrboyArabic masculine name, a variant transliteration of Zuhair, commonly explained as “little flower” or “bright/blossoming one.”/zoo-HAYR/ZuhdiboyArabic masculine name derived from zuhd, meaning “asceticism,” “renunciation of worldly excess,” or pious restraint./ZOOH-dee/ZuleikhagirlA traditional Somali name carried through generations — its exact literal meaning isn't recorded, which is part of its story/zoo-LAY-kha/ZulfiqaarboySomali spelling of the Arabic Islamic name Dhul-Fiqar/Zulfiqar, the name of the celebrated sword associated with Ali./zul-fi-KAAR/ZulfiqarboyArabic Islamic name referring to Dhul-Fiqar/Zulfiqar, the sword traditionally associated with Ali./zool-fi-KAAR/ZunairagirlAn Arabic/Islamic female name, often explained as “radiant” or “luminous”; it is also associated with Zunaira al-Rumiyya, an early Muslim woman./zoo-NAY-rah/