Find out how popular the first name Sulema has been for the last 49 years (from 1975 to 2023) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Sulema by gender

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

For the most recent data in 2023, there were 8 female babies and 0 male babies born with the name Sulema.

The history of the first name Sulema

The name Sulema has its origins in the Arabic language, tracing back to the Middle Ages and the historical Arab world. It is derived from the Arabic word "salima," which means "safe" or "secure." The name carries connotations of protection, well-being, and peace.

While the exact origin of the name is uncertain, it is believed to have emerged during the medieval period, possibly as early as the 7th or 8th century. During this time, the Arab world experienced a cultural and intellectual renaissance, which contributed to the spread and popularity of Arabic names.

One of the earliest recorded mentions of the name Sulema can be found in the writings of the renowned Arab poet and philosopher Al-Mutanabbi, who lived from 915 to 965 CE. In his poetry, he referred to a woman named Sulema, although the specific context and details are not widely known.

Throughout history, several notable individuals have borne the name Sulema. One example is Sulema bint Hisham (died 1087 CE), a renowned female scholar and poet from Andalusia, renowned for her contributions to literature and education during the golden age of Islamic Spain.

Another prominent figure was Sulema Al-Zahiri (1360-1432), a respected jurist and judge who served in the court of the Mamluk Sultanate in Cairo. His legal rulings and interpretations were highly influential in the region.

In the 16th century, Sulema al-Marrakushiyya (1495-1563) was a celebrated Moroccan scholar and writer. She was known for her expertise in various fields, including Islamic jurisprudence, literature, and linguistics.

Moving to more recent times, Sulema Royer (1870-1932) was a French artist and painter, recognized for her impressionist landscapes and portraits. Her works were exhibited in several prestigious galleries in Paris during the early 20th century.

Lastly, Sulema Niyazova (1917-2012) was a prominent Soviet and Turkmen opera singer and actress. She performed in numerous operas and plays, and was awarded several honors for her contributions to the arts in the Soviet Union.

These are just a few examples of individuals who have carried the name Sulema throughout history, representing its diverse cultural and geographical reach, as well as its enduring significance across various fields and eras.

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

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

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