Back to Baby Names

Asma

Girl Name #1,813 Most Popular Hidden Gem 2 Syllables

An exalted name honoring Islam's bravest early women

Arabic Muslim South Asian African
Spiritual Elegant Traditional Sophisticated

Meaning & Origin

"exalted, elevated in status"
Origin: Arabic
Language: Arabic

Things to Know About This Name

  • May be phonetically confused with 'asthma' in English-speaking countries

The Story of Asma

Asma is an Arabic feminine name from the root 'samā,' meaning 'to be exalted, to be sublime.' It carries the sense of loftiness — of something elevated above the ordinary. The name is directly connected to Asmāʾ bint Abī Bakr, a highly respected companion of the Prophet Muhammad and daughter of the first Caliph Abu Bakr, known as 'She of the Two Belts' for her role in aiding the early Muslim migration. She is one of the most venerated women in Islamic history.

Asma is a classic name across the Arab world, South Asia, and Muslim communities in Africa. Its popularity has remained steady across generations. In Western countries, it is used primarily in Muslim families as a name carrying both spiritual and historical significance. Notable modern bearers include Asma al-Assad and Pakistani human rights lawyer Asma Jahangir.

Asma bint Abi Bakr, daughter of Islam's first Caliph, risked her life to provide food and news to the Prophet during the Hijra (migration from Mecca to Medina). Her courage is celebrated in Islamic tradition. The name thus carries profound religious and historical significance in Muslim communities, representing bravery, loyalty, and faith.

Fun Facts

  • Asma bint Abi Bakr earned the title 'She of the Two Belts' for cutting her belt in two to tie the provisions for the Prophet's migration
  • Asma Jahangir was a Pakistani lawyer and UN Special Rapporteur who championed human rights until her death in 2018
  • The name ranks among the top girls' names in several Arab countries including Morocco, Jordan, and Saudi Arabia

Asma in Other Languages

Urdu اسماء
Arabic أسماء
Bengali আসমা
English Asma
Turkish Esma

Famous People Named Asma

A

Asma Jahangir

Activist

1952

Legendary Pakistani human rights lawyer, UN Special Rapporteur, and symbol of civil courage

A

Asma bint Abi Bakr

Religious

Daughter of the first Caliph Abu Bakr, key figure in early Islamic history known for her courage during the Hijra

Quick Facts

Gender
Girl
Syllables
2
Popularity Rank
#1,813
Total SSA Count
111
Cultural Origins
Arabic Muslim South Asian African
Pronunciation
Moderate
Formality
Moderate
Cross-Cultural Ease
Moderate

Common Nicknames

Azi

Pairs Well With

Asma Noor Asma Leila Asma Fatima Asma Zara Asma Yasmin Asma Samira Asma Hana

Sibling Names

Similar Names

Playground Safety

Kid-Friendly

Can't decide?

Start a tournament bracket with Asma and other names you're considering.

Start a Tournament

Like this name?

Check how Asma sounds with your surname and test for potential nicknames.

Analyze This Name
Browse more girl names →

Explore More Generators

Frequently Asked Questions About Asma

What does the name Asma mean?
"exalted, elevated in status" (from Arabic). Asma is an Arabic feminine name from the root 'samā,' meaning 'to be exalted, to be sublime.' It carries the sense of loftiness — of something elevated above the ordinary. The name is directly connected to Asmāʾ bint Abī Bakr, a highly respected companion of the Prophet Muhammad and daughter of the first Caliph Abu Bakr, known as 'She of the Two Belts' for her role in aiding the early Muslim migration. She is one of the most venerated women in Islamic history.
What is the origin of the name Asma?
Asma has Arabic, Muslim, South Asian, and African origins. In Arabic, it means "exalted, elevated in status".
Is Asma a boy or girl name?
Asma is primarily used as a girl name.
How popular is the name Asma?
Asma is currently ranked #1813 in popularity for girl names in the United States.
What are common nicknames for Asma?
Common nicknames for Asma include Azi.
What are good middle names for Asma?
Popular middle name pairings include Asma Noor, Asma Leila, Asma Fatima, Asma Zara, Asma Yasmin, Asma Samira, and Asma Hana.
What are good sibling names for Asma?
Names that pair well with Asma as siblings include Ahmad, Yasmin, Ibrahim, Nadia, Omar, Fatima, and Khalid.
How many syllables does Asma have?
Asma has 2 syllables, making it easy to say and remember.
Is Asma a common or rare name?
Asma is an uncommon name, ranked #1813 in the US. Its rarity gives it a distinctive, memorable quality.

About the Name Asma

Asma is a girl name with Arabic, Muslim, South Asian, and African origins . The name means "exalted, elevated in status" in Arabic .

Asma is currently ranked #1,813 in popularity for girl names in the United States.

The name Asma has 2 syllables, making it easy to pronounce and remember.

Common nicknames for Asma include Azi. These shorter forms provide casual alternatives while keeping the elegance of the full name.

Explore Name Lists