Origin and Meaning of Rafia

Exalted, Noble

Origin: Arabic - Derived from the Arabic root word 'rafa,' which means 'to elevate' or 'to raise.'

• Rafia is a popular name in several Arabic-speaking countries and among Muslim communities around the world, often associated with positive traits.
• The name is sometimes used for girls in South Asian cultures, where it signifies a sense of high status and honor.
• Notable bearers of the name include Rafia Zakaria, a prominent author and attorney known for her insights on feminism and identity.
• While the name Rafia is not among the most common names in the Western world, it has steadily gained more visibility with the rise of cultural diversity and appreciation of unique names.
• Variations of the name include Rafi, which is a masculine form in some cultures, and Rafiah, which is an alternative spelling.