Unique baby names that reflect the culture, heritage, and customs of Somalia.
Somalia is a country located in Eastern Africa, specifically in the Horn of Africa. The country has a rich culture that is evident in the baby names given to Somali children. Somali baby names are unique and offer a special choice for parents looking for something different. The names typically consist of three parts: a given name, the father’s name, and the paternal grandfather’s name, all of which reflect the baby’s ancestry. It is common to see names that honor celebrities, elders, and other family members. Due to the influence of neighboring countries on Somali traditions, these baby names are rare and unique in the United States and other Western nations. If you’re looking for a distinctive and uncommon name for your baby, Somalian baby names would be a great option.
Somali Baby Names For Girls With Meanings
- Aamiina
Aamiina is the Somali version of the name Aminah and it means ‘feel safe’. This name was used by Prophet Muhammad’s mother who passed away when he was a young child.
- Amburo
Amburo is a last name from Somalia, but can also be used as a girl’s first name. Even though it may seem different at first, it’s easy to get used to because it’s similar to the name Amber.
- Astur
Astur is a beautiful and feminine somali baby name that means ‘to cover or to conceal’. This name is popular in many African countries, including Somalia.
- Axado
Another beautiful somali baby name to consider is Axado, which means ‘Sunday’. It would be an ideal choice for girls born on this joyful day.
- Axlam
This name is suitable for babies from any cultural background. It has a gentle and endearing quality, and goes well with modern and diverse names. The name means ‘clever or creative’.
- Ayaan
Ayaan is a name commonly given to boys in Arabic, but it is used for girls in Somali. The name is well-known but not extremely popular, and it is simple to say and write. Overall, Ayaan is considered a very appealing name, with the meaning of ‘lucky, fortunate, or bright’. The male version of the name is Ayanle.
- Barkhado
Barkhado is a well-known Somali baby name that is not commonly heard in the United States. The name means ‘sunbeam’.
- Barwaaqo
The Somali baby name Barwaaqo, which means ‘prosperous’, is a unique option for naming your baby girl.
- Beydaan
Beydaan is a popular Somali name that would work well in America. It comes from the word for ‘almond’ in Somali and is thought to have connections to the Persian word for almond, ‘badam’.
- Bilan
Bilan is a popular Somali name for baby girls that means ‘first born.’ It is commonly used for the oldest daughter in a family.
- Bilqiis
Bilqiis is a lovely Somali baby name for a baby girl. It comes from Arabic and is also known as Bilquis, which is the name of the Queen of Sheba. The name means ‘desert or wasteland.’
- Bishaaro
Bishaaro is a Somali baby name that means happiness or joy, which is a strong and positive feeling. It brings to mind a carefree girl playing with her friends in the yard.
- Caaisho
Caaisho is a really cute name that would be perfect for a baby girl. It is likely the Somali equivalent of the Arabic name Ayesha, which means ‘long living’ and was also the name of Muhammad’s beloved wife.
- Caaliyah
This Somali baby name is a variation of Aliyah that means ‘exalted’. We are amazed that a name like Caaliyah, which is so popular, has not made it onto the top 1000 list.
- Calaso
Calaso is a Somali baby name that means ‘fair skinned’ and is often given to girls with a light complexion when they are born. This name is very beautiful and would suit girls well on the mainland.
- Canab
This name means grape in Somali. It is a traditional Somali baby name that may sound unique to those in America and Europe. In Somali names, the letter C is not pronounced. Therefore, you should say Canab with an ‘aahh’ sound.
- Casho
If you want a name that’s enjoyable to pronounce, consider choosing Casho, which means ‘life’. This Somali baby name has a contemporary sound and looks stylish when written down.
- Cawo
Cawo, incredibly fashionable, should be very popular right now, but it remains a lesser-known option. The name means ‘luck’. We hope it will become more widely recognized soon.
- Faduma
Faduma is the Somali equivalent of Fatima and it means ‘to abstain’. Another spelling option is Fadumo. What do you think of using Faddy as a nickname for Faduma? Do you think it sounds stylish or mischievous?
- Fawzia
The Somali baby name Fawzia has a beautiful sound and a strong message, making it a great choice. The name Fawzia in Somali means ‘victorious’, derived from the Arabic version Fawziyya.
- Fowsio
Parents desire the best opportunities for their children. We believe you also want the same for your daughter. Therefore, why not start her off on a good path by naming her Fowsio, which means ‘success’?
- Gargaaro
This name from Somalia means ‘the one who helps,’ and it is one of my favorites. Giving your daughter this name will encourage her to be kind and offer assistance to those in need.
- Hani
Hani is a beautiful and not commonly used name from Somalia, which means ‘happy’. It can also be used as a nickname for Hannah. The most well-known person with this name is Hani, a singer from Korea in the group EXID.
- Haweeyo
Haweeyo is a beautiful and often disregarded Somali baby name that could be a special way to honor your Somali family members. The name means ‘the elevated one’.
- Hibaaq
In Somali culture, the name Hiba means a gift from Allah. When saying this name, make sure your tongue touches the roof of your mouth while pronouncing the letter ‘q’.
- Hodan
Hodan is a popular and traditional Somali baby name that means ‘wealthy or rich’. It has a pleasant sound and conveys a positive meaning and impression.
- Hoodoo
Simple and unique always work well together, don’t you agree? How about the name Hoodo, which means ‘luck or fortunate’? Fans of ‘The Lord of the Rings’ might find it appealing due to its similarity to Hodor.
- Idil
Idil is a name that can be both Somali and Turkish, and it means ‘perfect or complete’. The name is shared by Idil Biret, a famous Turkish concert pianist who is well-known for her performances of Romantic music.
- Isniino
If you’re looking for a classic Somali baby name that’s not very common, consider choosing Isniino, which means ‘born on Monday’. This name is typically given to girls who were born on a Monday.
- Jamilah
Jamilah is a gentle and attractive Somali baby name that has a sweet fragrance reminiscent of vanilla. If you choose this name for your daughter, she will have something in common with Jamila Singer, a character in Salman Rushdie’s book ‘Midnight’s Children’. The name means ‘beautiful’ in English.
- Jawaahir
If you want a unique gemstone-themed name for your daughter instead of the common name Jewel, you could consider the name Jawaahir, which also means ‘jewelry’. This name is often viewed as a representation of how special and valuable a daughter can be. Jawaahir, a Somali version of Jawahir, became popular because of Somali-American model Jawaahir Axmed.
- Khadiija
This particular version of the name Khadija in Somali means ‘premature child’. In the Muslim community, this name is significant because it was the name of Prophet Muhammad’s initial spouse.
- Khadra
Khadra is a common name in Somalia that means ‘lucky or fortunate.’ Yasmina Khadra, a well-known author from Algeria, is a notable person with this name. Additionally, Khadra is also the name of a town in Algeria.
- Ladan
I have a wonderful suggestion for the name of your baby daughter. This Somali baby name means good health.
- Leylo
Some names are always popular and Leylo is one of them. Have you heard of it before? Yes, that’s correct! Leylo is the Somali version of Layla and it means ‘night’.
- Magool
The Somali baby name Magool seems like it is taken from a Disney fairy tale. The name means ‘early flowering’ and would be a fitting name for a baby born in the spring.
- Meelaaney
Do you think Meelaaney would be a cool name for your daughter? It has been popular in Somalia for a while now. The name means ‘on the road to success’.
- Nala
This stylish and endearing Somali baby name, which means ‘us’, is well-known throughout Africa. One of its well-known bearers is Nala, the wife of Simba in Disney’s movie ‘The Lion King.’
- Naateexo
Names with the letter ‘x’ tend to sound impressive, and the same goes for the name Nasteexo, which means ‘advise or counsel’.
- Obax
Children bring joy to their parents, like flowers in a garden. You can name your beloved daughter Obax, which means ‘flower’. It’s a unique floral name that is not very common.
- Sagal
The Somali baby name Sagal is commonly given to baby girls born in the rainy season, symbolizing the morning rays of the sun. It’s a unique alternative to names like Rainy or Raina.
- Sahra
The Somali baby name Sahra means ‘desert’ in Arabic and Turkish. However, when used as a name in Somalia, it is likely a variation of the Arabic names Zahra and Zahrah.
- Shamshi
The Somali baby name means Shamshi is a popular choice for parents today. It originates from Old Persian which means ‘my sun or sunshine’. In Somalia and the Middle East, Shamshi is also commonly used as a last name.
- Uba
Uba is a simple and sleek name that is easy to understand and more readily available than many other names on this list. The name means ‘flower’ and is often given to baby girls who were born surrounded by fragrant flowers.
- Ugbad
Ugbad is a recently popular Somali baby name which means ‘bouquet of roses.’ This unique and sweet name brings to mind images of a party in a garden, with pretty flower arrangements decorating each table.
- Waris
This Somali baby name stands out for being more energetic and vibrant than other floral names we have seen. Surprisingly, the meaning of this name is ‘desert flower’.
- Xaawo
Xaawo is a Somali baby name that is considered more fashionable in one region than another. In Somali culture, it is the equivalent of the name Eve. The name means ‘living or lively.’
- Xalwo
Xalwo, which is named after a Somali sweet treat, is a catchy name that sounds modern. The name means ‘sweet’.
- Xoriyo
Many believe that one of the greatest things parents can offer their kids is the ability to make their own choices. Show your support for this idea by giving your daughter the name Xoriyo. The name means ‘freedom’.
- Yasmiin
In English speaking countries, the name Yasmiin, which means ‘jasmine’ in Somali, is often used as Jasmine.
Somali Baby Names For Boys With Meanings
- Aaden
This Somali baby name is becoming more popular. Aaden is the Somali version of the common Biblical name Adam. It is frequently used by Somali men as a first, middle, or last name. The name means ‘to make’.
- Abdirahim
Abdirrahim is a Somali version of the Arabic name Abdurrahim, which means ‘servant of the most merciful’. If you prefer, you can also go by the shortened nickname Abdi.
- Abdiraxman
The name Abdiraxman comes from Somalia and is the Somali equivalent of the Arabic name Abdur Rahman, which is one of the 99 names of Allah. The name means ‘servant of divine grace’.
- Abdullahi
Abdullahi is the Somali version of the name Abdullah and it means ‘servant of God’. The name originates as a variation of Abdul, which is commonly used in Muslim countries becasue it was the name of Prophet Muhammad’s father and son.
- Absame
Absame is a sub-clan of the Somali Darod clan, living in Kenya, Ethiopia, and Somalia. Parents in this clan frequently name their children Absame, which means ‘the great one’.
- Abshir
Abshir is a name in Somali that means ‘congratulations’. This Somali baby name is lovely, simple to write and say, and also has a positive significance. Feel free to choose it for your son.
- Asad
Asad, also spelled as Assad, is a popular Arabic name that means ‘lion’. It is often used as a nickname for some Muslim names, like how it was the nickname of Ali ibn Abi Talib. One well-known person with the name Asad is Audrey Assad, the American singer and songwriter.
- Axmed
Axmed is a Somali version of the name Ahmed in Arabic. Do you agree that it is an improvement on the original? The letter ‘x’ in the middle adds a unique touch to the name. It doesn’t sound old-fashioned or outdated at all.
- Barre
The nickname ‘Bare’ comes from the Somali word for ‘teacher’. It became well-known because of its connection to Mohamed Siad Barre, who was the president and military leader of Somalia from 1969 to 1991.
- Bashiir
Bashiir is the Somali equivalent of the Arabic name Bashir. The only distinction between the two is the additional ‘i’ in the middle. Both Christians and Muslims use this name in its original form as a personal or family name. This Somali baby name means ‘bringer of good news’.
- Burhaan
In Somali, the name comes from the word burhaan, which means ‘charm’, while in Arabic it means ‘evidence’.
- Candi
Cabdi is a common nickname used by Somali men. It comes from the prefix ‘abd’ which means ‘servant’. So, you can call someone Cabdi if their name is Cabdullahi, Cabdullah, Cabdulmajiid, or Cabdulqaadir.
- Cabdulmajiid
Cabdulmajiid is a Somali baby name that comes from the Arabic name abed al-Majid. It is made up of two parts: ‘cabd’, which means ‘servant’, and ‘majid’, which means ‘glorious’ or ‘exalted’. So, the name overall means ‘servant of the glorious’.
- Caweys
Caweys is a pretty Somali baby name that means ‘night’. This name is a more recent addition to Somali names and doesn’t have origins in religious texts like the Quran.
- Cawil
This nickname, which means ‘replacement’, is often given to a male if his older brother or father has died. It is easy to say and spell, and doesn’t need an abbreviation.
- Cilmi
Cilmi is a traditional Somali baby name that is also used in other African countries. The name comes from the Somali word for ‘learning or knowledge’, making it a positive choice for a son’s name.
- Cumar
Are you drawn to the simplicity and charm of Omar, but not its gentleness? If so, you might like the lively alternative of Cumar. Cumar is the Somali version of the popular name Omar, which means ‘speaker or eloquent’.
- Daahir
Daahir comes from a Somali word that means ‘religiously pure’. Surprisingly, only a few hundred people chose this name last year, even though it is a very likable name. In other countries, Daahir is usually spelled as Dahir.
- Dalmar
Dalmar is a Somali baby name that is both strong and powerful, but also has a touch of tenderness. In a time where short and energetic names are becoming popular, Dalmar could be an interesting choice. The name means being versatile, adaptable, and having many sides.
- Diric
Choose the name Diric, as it means heroism and courage in Somalia. The name comes from the Somali word ‘diric’, which means ‘fearless, daring, and bold’.
- Erasto
The Somali baby name Erasto, which means ‘man of peace’, represents a kind and calm demeanor.
- Faarax
Faarax is a traditional Somali baby name that is not very common nowadays. It should not be mistaken for the Arabic name Faraz.
- Filsan
The Somali baby name Filsan usually refers to a female who is considered the best of her age, but it can also be used for males.
- Geesi
The Somali baby name Geesi means characteristics like being brave and heroic, traits you’d hope your son will embody as he grows up. However, some individuals might perceive it as sounding more feminine.
- Geedi
Geedi is a common but not commonly used name in Somalia, even among families that are not Muslim. The name means ‘traveler’ and is typically given to babies born while their parents were on a journey.
- Gurey
The name ‘Gurey’ originates from the Somali word meaning ‘left-handed’. In Somali language, ‘Gurey’ is commonly used as an adjective but can also be used as a name.
- Guuleed
Guuleed is a traditional Somali baby name that is only used within the Somali culture.
- Ibraahin
Ibraahin, which is the Somali version of Abraham, is no longer commonly used. This name was held by Ibraahin Adeer, who was the first sultan of the Sultanate of Geledi, a Somali kingdom that controlled certain areas of Africa from the 17th century until the 1910s.
- Iiamaan
Iimaan is a Somali version of the name Imaan. One famous person with this name is the American model Iiamaan, who was born in Somalia.
- Ismaaciil
Ismaaciil is a Somali version of the name Ishmael, which means ‘God will hear’.
- Lebanon
The Somali baby name Liban comes from the ancient Arabic language and means ‘preserve.’ It is commonly used in the Northern region of Somalia, now known as Somaliland. This name is often given to baby boys who are considered good-looking when they are born.
- Magan
The Somali baby name Magan means protection or refuge.
- Maxamed
This is a very common name in many different forms, and is especially popular in Muslim countries all around the world. In Somalia, the variation Maxamed is the most commonly used.
- Nadifa
The Somali baby name Nadifa means ‘born between seasons’ and gives a gentle feeling of the wind blowing through the trees.
- Rooble
The Somali baby name Rooble comes from the Somali term ‘roob’, which means ‘rain’. In general, Rooble means ‘someone who brings rain’ or ‘rain man’.
- Sharmaarke
The prefix ‘shar’ is defined as ‘evil’ and ‘maarke’ means ‘protection’. Together, the name means ‘protect from evil’.
- Shermarke
Somalis think that giving this name to their sons will keep them safe from evil with God’s help. Shermarke is a common name. Shermarke is a great name for a very clever boy. This name means someone who brings good luck.
- Suleymaan
The Somali baby name Suleymaan, which means ‘peace’, is the Arabic version of the Hebrew name Solomon. This name has become more popular with modern parents, moving away from its traditional image.
- Taban
This Somali baby name carries a positive connotation as it means being very cheerful or bringing sunshine.
- Tahiil
Tahliil is a Somali baby name that means harmony between the physical and spiritual aspects. It suggests that your baby will bring balance and positivity to those around them.
- Tadalesh
Tadalesh is a interesting name from Somalia that may be difficult for Americans and Europeans to pronounce. The name means ‘fortunate’ or ‘lucky’.
- Taifa
Taifa is a dignified Somali baby name that means ‘nation or tribe’.
- Tawfiiq
The Somali baby name Tawfiiq means ‘success’. Therefore, you can anticipate your son to excel in everything he tries to do.
- Warsame
If you want a cozy and traditional Somali baby name, choose Warsame, which means ‘good news’.
- Xabiib
The name from Somalia has a pleasing sound to the ear. The name means ‘dearly loved’.
- Xidig
The Somali baby name Xidig, which means ‘star’, would be a great name for your son. He will work hard to fulfill the expectations of his name and bring pride to you and your partner.
- Xirsi
Xirsi comes from a Somali name that means ‘safeguard’. In countries outside of Africa, this name is usually spelled as Hirsi.
- Xuseen
Xuseen, the Somali version of Husayn, could be a great name for your baby boy.
- Yasir
The Somali baby name Yasir means ‘prosperous’. In a different form, this name is associated with Yasser Arafat, who was a past leader of Palestine.
- Yuusuf
Yuusuf is a Somali version of the name Joseph, which means ‘God increases’. The name variation Yusuf is ranked in the top 1000 names according to the US Social Security Administration list.
- Zahi
This strong name from Somalia is suitable for someone important in politics or sports. The naem means excellence.
Frequently Asked Questions
Numerous parents desire a traditional name that represents their heritage for their child, but they also want something original and special. Somali baby names may be a great option for these parents as they showcase the culture and history of Somalia. Check out this list of Somali names and their meanings to find one that speaks to you. Make sure the name fits your child’s character and that they will like it as they grow up.
