Origin
Arabic origin, from the name فاطمة (Fāṭimah), associated with Fatimah, the daughter of the Prophet Muhammad. The name is prevalent in Islamic cultures, including among Muslim communities in Australia. It does not have indigenous Australian or Māori roots.
Meaning
Literal translation from Arabic: 'one who abstains' or 'to abstain'. It signifies purity and righteousness in Islamic tradition. In Australian English contexts, the name retains its cultural significance associated with virtue and purity.
Pronunciation
/ˈfɒːtɪmə/ (Australian English pronunciation) with the emphasis on the first syllable, as per Arabic pronunciation influence, though pronunciation may vary.
Variants & Nicknames
Variants
- Fatima (more common internationally, especially in Muslim-majority countries)
- Fadima (alternative spelling)
- Fātimah (original Arabic spelling)
Nicknames
- Fati
- Fatu
- Faty
Name Days
- 20 February (Islamic celebration of Mawlid, the birth of Prophet Muhammad, honouring Fatimah)
- First Friday of Ramadan (Islamic fasting month, observed by many Muslims in Australia)
- 20 February (Western calendar commemoration of Fatimah in some Islamic communities)
Name Pairings
Names that pair well with fatema:
- Aminah and Fatema
- Layla and Fatema
- Sara and Fatema
Fun Facts
- The name Fatema is popular among Australian Muslim communities, especially among those of Middle Eastern, South Asian, and North African descent.
- Fatema is often used as a respectful and honourific middle name in Australia to preserve cultural heritage.
- The name appears in Australian multicultural festivals, symbolising cultural pride.
Personality Traits
Common traits associated with the name fatema:
- Respectful
- Family-oriented
- Virtuous
- Culturally aware
Aesthetic Qualities
Elegantly flowing with a balanced structure, the name carries a spiritual and cultural aesthetic that appeals in multicultural Australia. Its pronunciation and script reflect both heritage and modernity.
Geographical Distribution
Most common among Muslim populations in urban Australian centres such as Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane; less common in rural regions where migrant communities are smaller.
Numerological Significance
Name number 7, associated with introspection, spirituality, and analytical qualities in numerology, resonating with its cultural significance within faith contexts.
Astrological Connections
No specific astrological associations, though many in the community believe names influence personal traits; some align the name with the Moon in astrology, reflecting its spiritual qualities.
Historical Context
The name Fatema is historically significant in Islamic culture, named after Fatimah, a revered figure. In Australia, it has been borne by notable community leaders, scholars, and artists within Muslim and immigrant communities, fostering cultural identity and continuity.
Linguistic Adaptability
The name adapts phonetically well into various languages, often maintaining its original Arabic form or slight variations. It is written in Latin script in Australia, with occasional transliterations in other scripts for cultural occasions.
Famous People Named fatema
- Fatema Khestar (Australian Muslim community leader)
- Fatema Begum (Islamic scholar)
- Fatema Zohra (Australian artist)
Popularity in Australia
Year | Count |
---|---|
2024 | 1 |
2017 | 1 |
2015 | 2 |
2014 | 1 |