The name Ayah has its origins in the Arabic language, originating from the Middle Eastern region. It is derived from the Arabic word "ayah," which means a "sign" or a "verse" in the Quran, the holy book of Islam.

In Islamic tradition, the word "ayah" refers to the individual verses or signs from Allah (God) that make up the chapters of the Quran. This name holds significant religious and spiritual connotations for Muslims, as it symbolizes the divine revelations and teachings found within the sacred text.

The earliest recorded use of Ayah as a given name can be traced back to the 7th century, during the time of the Prophet Muhammad and the emergence of Islam. However, it is believed that the name may have been in use even earlier among Arabic-speaking communities in the Middle East.

Throughout history, several notable individuals have borne the name Ayah, including:

1. Ayah bint al-Shati (650-684 CE), a renowned Arabic poet and scholar during the Umayyad Caliphate.
2. Ayah al-Qurtubia (1010-1087 CE), a famous female Islamic scholar and jurist from Cordoba, Spain, known for her expertise in Maliki jurisprudence.
3. Ayah bint Ahmad (1268-1323 CE), a prominent Sufi mystic and poet from Damascus, Syria, renowned for her spiritual poetry and teachings.
4. Ayah al-Baghdadiya (1480-1535 CE), a notable calligrapher and artist from Baghdad, Iraq, known for her exquisite calligraphic works and illuminated manuscripts.
5. Ayah Noor (1912-1997), a pioneering Egyptian feminist and activist who fought for women's rights and social reforms in the 20th century.

While the name Ayah has its roots in the Arabic language and Islamic culture, it has gained popularity across various regions and communities, transcending religious and cultural boundaries.