Shahida is a unique and captivating female given name of Arabic origin. Derived from the Arabic word "shahaada," which means "witness" or "martyr," Shahida signifies one who bears witness to the truth or faith. This powerful meaning makes it a meaningful choice for parents looking for a name with profound significance.
The name Shahida has a rich history in Islamic culture and has been bestowed upon numerous notable figures throughout time. One of the most famous bearers of this name is Shahida Lateef, a Pakistani-American poet and activist who fought against Islamophobia and advocated for women's rights. Her work and activism have left an indelible mark on society, further enriching the legacy of the name Shahida.
Despite its deep roots in Islamic culture, Shahida has gained popularity beyond religious circles. Today, it is recognized as a beautiful and unique given name worldwide. Its pronunciation, /shah-hee-dah/, adds to its allure, with the three syllables creating a melodic rhythm that makes it pleasing to the ear.
In conclusion, Shahida is an exquisite female given name of Arabic origin that carries a profound meaning rooted in faith and truth. With a rich history and notable bearers, this unique name has gained international recognition and continues to be chosen by parents seeking a meaningful and captivating name for their daughters.
The name Shahida has been given to a total of 135 baby girls in the United States over the years, with the number of births varying annually.
From 1970 to 1994, there were consistently between 5 and 8 babies named Shahida each year, peaking at 8 births in both 1980 and 1992. The late 1990s saw a slight decline, with only 5 births recorded annually from 1996 to 1998.
After a gap of nearly two decades without any reported births named Shahida, there was a resurgence in its usage starting in 2008, with 5 babies being given this name that year. Since then, there have been between 5 and 6 births annually, most recently in 2019 and 2022.
These statistics demonstrate the ebb and flow of popularity for the name Shahida over time within the United States. Despite its fluctuations in usage, it remains a unique and distinctive choice for parents looking to bestow their child with a special name.