صفية

Safiyya

girlArabic

Safiyya is a Muslim girl name meaning “Pure; chosen friend”.

MeaningPure; chosen friend
GenderGirl
OriginArabic
Arabic spellingصفية
Pronunciationsah-FEE-yah
Arabic rootص ف و (ṣ-f-w) — to be pure, clear
Muslim name?Islamic / Arabic name

Meaning and origin of Safiyya

Safiyya is an Arabic name meaning 'pure' or 'chosen, sincere friend'. It was borne by Ṣafiyya bint Ḥuyayy, one of the Mothers of the Believers, and by Ṣafiyya bint ʿAbd al-Muṭṭalib, the Prophet's aunt, who was known for her courage. In Nigeria the name is used in this form by Hausa Muslims, while Yoruba Muslims often say Sofiyat or Sofiat.

Is Safiyya a Muslim name?

Yes. Safiyya is a classic Muslim name, borne by Ṣafiyya bint Ḥuyayy, a wife of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, and by his aunt Ṣafiyya bint ʿAbd al-Muṭṭalib.

Where is the name Safiyya used?

Used throughout the Muslim world; this spelling is especially common in northern Nigeria.

Gifts with the name Safiyya

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Spellings and variants of Safiyya

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More girl names like Safiyya

Frequently asked questions

What does the name Safiyya mean?

Safiyya means 'Pure; chosen friend'. It comes from Arabic.

Is Safiyya a Muslim name?

Yes. Safiyya is a classic Muslim name, borne by Ṣafiyya bint Ḥuyayy, a wife of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, and by his aunt Ṣafiyya bint ʿAbd al-Muṭṭalib.

How do you write Safiyya in Arabic?

Safiyya is written صفية in Arabic script.

How do you pronounce Safiyya?

Safiyya is pronounced sah-FEE-yah.

Updated October 2026 · Researched by the Modern Muslim Names team. Spotted a mistake? Let us know.