Do Urdu baby names have any special meanings?

Urdu names have great cultural significance. Many names in this culture have an adjective, which conveys how parents want their child to be. The names symbolize qualities that society upholds, such as beauty, strength, patience, and generosity. For example, Aaidah means ‘narrator of hadith.’ Batool means ‘pure and chaste,’ Fiza means ‘open-hearted,’ and Dua means ‘devotion.’

Are there any traditional naming customs in Urdu-speaking cultures?

Urdu or Pakistani names have origins in Arabic, Indo-Persian, and Turkish cultures. Since tribal and familial identity is given much consideration, people add their tribes name to their family’s. Traditional Arabic-Abrahamic names are prolific. Some examples are Muhammad, Yusuf, and Ali. However, today European-style naming systems gained much popularity in Pakistan (2).

Are there any gender-neutral Urdu baby names?

Yes. There are some gender-neutral names in Urdu you can use for your child. These include Gohar, meaning precious stone, Lakisha, meaning alive, Hareem, meaning a superior man, and Hamas, meaning enthusiasm.

What is the role of religion in choosing Urdu baby names?

The Urdu-speaking people give the first name, sometimes just an honorary name. It shows a connection with the Islamic faith. A second shorter name is then given to the baby, by which they are commonly known. Muslims also avoid using names that convey worshiping anything other than Allah. Parents also seek the suggestions of grandparents and Imam while naming their baby.