Find out how popular the first name Samih has been for the last 20 years (from 1998 to 2017) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Samih by gender

Based on the last 20 years of data, Samih is exclusively a male name.

For the most recent data in 2017, there were 5 male babies and 0 female babies born with the name Samih.

The history of the first name Samih

The name Samih is of Arabic origin, derived from the root word "samih" which means "sublime" or "lofty." It is believed to have originated in the Middle Eastern region during the early Islamic era, around the 7th century AD.

This name is closely associated with the Arabic language and Islamic culture, as it carries a spiritual and reverent connotation. It was likely given to individuals who embodied virtuous qualities or were held in high regard within their communities.

One of the earliest recorded references to the name Samih can be found in the writings of renowned Arab poets and scholars from the 8th and 9th centuries. These literary works often celebrated the virtues of individuals bearing this name, attributing them with wisdom, integrity, and a deep connection to their faith.

Throughout Islamic history, several notable figures have borne the name Samih. One prominent example is Samih al-Dhari, an Iraqi politician and activist who played a significant role in the uprising against the British occupation of Iraq in the early 20th century. He was born in 1880 and became a symbol of resistance and national pride.

Another notable bearer of this name was Samih al-Qasim, a Palestinian poet and writer who lived from 1939 to 2014. He was widely celebrated for his powerful and evocative works that captured the struggles and aspirations of the Palestinian people. His poetry resonated deeply with readers across the Arab world.

In the realm of Islamic scholarship, Samih al-Kafarnawi (1907-1985) was a renowned Egyptian theologian and jurist. He made significant contributions to the study of Islamic law and served as the Grand Mufti of Egypt from 1966 to 1978.

The name Samih has also been carried by individuals in other fields, such as Samih Sawiris, an Egyptian businessman and billionaire who founded the Orascom conglomerate. Born in 1957, he is widely regarded as one of the most successful entrepreneurs in the Middle East.

Another notable figure was Samih Darwazah (1892-1923), a Syrian historian and author who wrote extensively on the history of the Arab world and the Ottoman Empire. His works were influential in shaping the understanding of the region's rich cultural heritage.

These examples illustrate the enduring presence of the name Samih throughout various historical periods and across diverse domains, reflecting its deep-rooted cultural and linguistic origins.

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 Samih was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

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

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