Find out how popular the first name Soraia has been for the last 10 years (from 2015 to 2024) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Soraia by gender

Based on the last 10 years of data, Soraia is exclusively a female name.

For the most recent data in 2024, there were 8 female babies and 0 male babies born with the name Soraia.

The history of the first name Soraia

The name Soraia is a Portuguese feminine name with Arabic origins. It dates back to the 8th century when the Moors occupied the Iberian Peninsula. The name is derived from the Arabic word "sur'aiya," which means "bright" or "shining." It is believed to have been inspired by the celestial bodies, particularly the sun and stars.

During the Moorish rule in Portugal, the name Soraia gained popularity among the Muslim population. It was later adopted by the Portuguese Christians as well. The name's association with light and brightness made it a desirable choice for parents seeking a name that symbolized hope and positivity.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Soraia can be found in the medieval Portuguese chronicles, where it is mentioned as the name of a Moorish princess who lived in the 12th century. The chronicles describe her as a woman of great beauty and intelligence, known for her diplomatic skills and her role in negotiating peace treaties.

Throughout history, several notable individuals have borne the name Soraia. One of the most famous was Soraia Banu Begum (1552-1572), a Mughal princess and the daughter of Emperor Akbar. She was renowned for her literary talents and her patronage of the arts.

Another prominent figure was Soraia Pinto (1699-1769), a Portuguese painter and one of the first female artists to gain recognition in her country. Her works, which included religious paintings and portraits, were highly acclaimed during her lifetime.

In the 20th century, Soraia Braga (1917-2003) was a Brazilian actress and singer who achieved success in both theater and film. She was known for her versatility and her ability to portray a wide range of characters.

Soraia Chaves (1946-2020) was a renowned Portuguese fado singer and actress. She was celebrated for her powerful voice and her ability to convey the emotions and traditions of fado, Portugal's traditional music genre.

Soraia Cavaradossi (1951-2018) was an Italian soprano who had an illustrious career in opera houses around the world. She was particularly acclaimed for her interpretations of the works of Giuseppe Verdi and Giacomo Puccini.

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

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

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