Find out how popular the first name Najwa has been for the last 49 years (from 1976 to 2024) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Najwa by gender

Based on the last 49 years of data, Najwa is exclusively a female name.

For the most recent data in 2024, there were 9 female babies and 0 male babies born with the name Najwa.

The history of the first name Najwa

The name Najwa has its origins rooted in the Arabic language and culture, dating back to ancient times. It is derived from the Arabic word "najwa," which means "whisper" or "intimate conversation." The name carries connotations of privacy, confidentiality, and the sharing of secrets.

Historically, the name Najwa has been associated with the Arabian Peninsula, particularly the regions of modern-day Saudi Arabia and the Persian Gulf. Its earliest recorded usage can be traced back to pre-Islamic poetry and literature, where it was often used as a metaphor for the intimate exchange of thoughts and feelings between lovers or close companions.

In Islamic tradition, the name Najwa holds significance as it appears in the Quran, the holy book of Islam. Specifically, it is mentioned in Surah An-Najm (Chapter 53, Verse 10), which refers to a divine revelation received by the Prophet Muhammad. This connection has contributed to the name's popularity among Muslim communities worldwide.

One of the earliest recorded individuals bearing the name Najwa was Najwa bint Al-Husayn (born in the 7th century CE), a prominent figure in early Islamic history. She was the daughter of Husayn ibn Ali, the grandson of the Prophet Muhammad, and played a crucial role in preserving the legacy of her family after the tragic events of Karbala.

Another notable bearer of the name was Najwa Karam (born in 1966), a renowned Lebanese singer and actress. She has been a prominent figure in the Arabic music industry for several decades and has been recognized for her contributions to the preservation and promotion of traditional Arabic music.

In the literary world, Najwa Barakat (born in 1956) is a prominent Lebanese novelist and academic. Her works, such as "The Stone of Laughter" and "The Tiller of Waters," explore themes of identity, memory, and the complexities of the Arab diaspora experience.

Najwa Bin Shatwan (born in the 6th century CE) was a renowned Arab poet from the pre-Islamic era. Her poetry, which often celebrated love and nature, has been preserved and studied by scholars for its literary merit and historical significance.

Lastly, Najwa Shihab (born in 1952) is an Indonesian journalist, writer, and women's rights activist. She has been a prominent voice in advocating for gender equality and addressing social issues in Indonesia, and her work has earned her numerous accolades and recognition.

Data source

The first name data used on this page comes from the Social Security Administration (SSA). They've been collecting data on baby names since 1880.

The history and meaning of the name Najwa was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

If you have a correction or suggestion to improve the history of Najwa, please contact us.

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