Origin and Meaning of Halimah

Meaning & Origin

Gentle / Mild / Tolerant

Origin: Arabic - Derived from the Arabic root 'halm,' which means 'patience' and 'calmness.' Halimah is often associated with kindness and gentleness.

Interesting Facts

  • Halimah is a respected name in Islamic culture, often associated with Halimah as-Sa'diyah, a significant figure who was the foster mother of the Prophet Muhammad.
  • The name is common among Muslim communities around the world, including in countries such as Indonesia, Malaysia, and many parts of the Arab world.
  • Notable bearers of the name include Halimah Yacob, who became Singapore's first female president, emphasizing the name's modern relevancy.
  • While not extremely common in Western contexts, Halimah's popularity is rising within diverse cultural settings, with a noticeable increase in the last two decades.
  • Variations of the name include Halima, which is also popular in various cultures. The name may also be spelled in different ways, such as Halimah or Halemah.