What does Jamila mean and where does it come from?
Jamila (جميلة) is an Arabic name meaning 'beautiful' or 'graceful.' It is a widely used name in Arabic-speaking and Muslim communities. The name embodies qualities of beauty and elegance and has been used throughout history. The spelling may vary, including Jameela, depending on regional dialects. J
Cultural significance
Jamila has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Arabic-speaking communities, where it reflects values of beautiful, graceful.
Peak popularity
Reached #468 in 1977 — currently #1512 in the US.
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Related Reading
Arabic-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Jamila?
Jamila works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Jamila Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Jamila Rose
Floral · soft ending
Jamila Mae
Sweet · timeless
Jamila Claire
French influence · crisp
Jamila Jane
Literary · strong
Jamila Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Jamila right now?
Rising fast — up 364 spots — currently #1512 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #1512 | 142 | ▲ up 364 · +31% births |
| 2022 | #1876 | 108 | ▼ down 284 · -18% births |
| 2021 | #1592 | 132 | ▲ up 154 · +16% births |
| 2020 | #1746 | 114 | ▲ up 165 · +8% births |
| 2015 | #1911 | 106 | ▲ up 584 · +43% births |
| 2010 | #2495 | 74 | ▼ down 214 · -6% births |
| 2005 | #2281 | 79 | ▼ down 658 · -28% births |
| 2000 | #1623 | 109 | ▼ down 642 · -43% births |
| 1995 | #981 | 192 | ▼ down 148 · -19% births |
| 1990 | #833 | 236 | ▲ up 212 · +65% births |
| 1985 | #1045 | 143 | ▼ down 308 · -37% births |
| 1980 | #737 | 226 | ▲ up 54 · +28% births |
| 1975 | #791 | 177 | ▲ up 2764 · +883% births |
| 1970 | #3555 | 18 | ▲ up 1689 · +125% births |
| 1965 | #5244 | 8 | — |
The story of Jamila
Jamila is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 1962. With 7,677 total births recorded, Jamila remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #5244 in 1965 to #1512 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Jamila in 1977:
Jamila by decade
Jamila peaked in the 1970s. See all 1970s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1960s | 61 | |
| 1970s | 1,780 | |
| 1980s ★ | 1,886 | |
| 1990s | 1,834 | |
| 2000s | 930 | |
| 2010s | 1,072 | |
| 2020s | 114 | |
💎With 7,677 total births, Jamila is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Jamila?
Famous people named Jamila
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Jamila (Sufi mystic)
Jamila used this name in the tradition of Islamic mysticism and spirituality.
J(
Jamila (Arab poet)
Jamila carried this name in the rich tradition of classical Arabic poetry.
J(
Jamila (Quranic figure)
Jamila appears in the Quran or Hadith, giving this name deep Islamic spiritual significance.
J(
Jamila (Arab poet)
Jamila carried this name in the rich tradition of classical Arabic poetry.
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Celebrity Names
What celebrities named their babies in 2024
Explore →What names sound and feel like Jamila?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Jamila also consider these
How is Jamila written in other languages?
What are the boy versions of Jamila?
Common questions about the name Jamila
What does the name Jamila mean?
Jamila means "beautiful, graceful" — a name rooted in Arabic tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.
How popular is the name Jamila?
Jamila is currently a distinctive and less common name as a girl name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Jamila?
Jamila originates from Arabic tradition. Arabic names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
How do you pronounce the name Jamila?
Jamila is a three-syllable name pronounced JH AH0 M IH1 L AH0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
What sibling names go well with Jamila?
Jamila pairs beautifully with sibling names that share a similar Arabic heritage or complement its melodic and flowing sound. Names with a similar vibe create a cohesive sibling set without matching too closely.