Zainab
Zainab is a Muslim girl name meaning “A fragrant desert plant; ornament”.
| Meaning | A fragrant desert plant; ornament |
|---|---|
| Gender | Girl |
| Origin | Arabic |
| Arabic spelling | زينب |
| Pronunciation | ZAY-nab |
| Muslim name? | Islamic / Arabic name |
Meaning and origin of Zainab
Zainab is one of the oldest and most cherished Muslim girls' names. Classical scholars explain it as the name of a fragrant desert plant; the popular reading 'father's ornament' (zayn + ab) is a folk etymology. It was borne by Zaynab, the eldest daughter of the Prophet ﷺ, by two of his wives, Zaynab bint Jaḥsh and Zaynab bint Khuzayma, and by his granddaughter Zaynab bint ʿAlī, famed for her courage after Karbala.
Is Zainab a Muslim name?
Yes. Zainab is a classic Muslim name, borne by the Prophet's daughter, two of the Mothers of the Believers and his granddaughter.
Where is the name Zainab used?
Used everywhere in the Muslim world; Zainab is the usual spelling in South Asia and Nigeria.
Gifts with the name Zainab
- Zainab name necklaces & bracelets (Amazon)
- Personalised Zainab baby gifts (Amazon)
- Islamic baby gifts & books (Amazon)
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. We may earn a small commission from these links, at no extra cost to you.
Spellings and variants of Zainab
More girl names like Zainab
Frequently asked questions
What does the name Zainab mean?
Zainab means 'A fragrant desert plant; ornament'. It comes from Arabic.
Is Zainab a Muslim name?
Yes. Zainab is a classic Muslim name, borne by the Prophet's daughter, two of the Mothers of the Believers and his granddaughter.
How do you write Zainab in Arabic?
Zainab is written زينب in Arabic script.
How do you pronounce Zainab?
Zainab is pronounced ZAY-nab.