Origin
The name Imala appears to have African origins, possibly from the Igbo language where it could relate to words meaning 'beauty' or 'grace'. It is not derived from traditional Aboriginal Australian or Māori lexicons but has gained some usage in multicultural communities within Australia, reflecting Australia's diverse population.
Meaning
Imala is generally interpreted as 'beauty' or 'grace'. In the Australian English context, it is appreciated for its melodious sound and positive connotations of elegance and refinement.
Pronunciation
ɪˈmɑːlə (Australian English pronunciation: /ɪˈmɑːlə/) — emphasis on the second syllable, with a soft 'i' as in 'sit'. The final 'a' is pronounced as a schwa in casual speech.
Variants & Nicknames
Variants
- Imala (original form)
- Imalae (alternative spelling)
- Imalá (with accent for emphasis)
Nicknames
- Mala
- Imi
Name Days
- 15 August (Assumption of Mary)
- 8 September (Nativity of the Virgin Mary)
- Māori calendar: Māmā Rātā (Mother Rātā Day, celebrating maternal figures)
Name Pairings
Names that pair well with imala:
- Emma and Olivia
- Sophia and Isabella
- Chloe and Zoe'],
- Suggested middle names: 'Grace', 'Marie', 'Lila', 'Amara'
Fun Facts
- Imala is a relatively rare name in Australia, often chosen by multicultural families seeking unique names.
- The name has gained some popularity among the African diaspora in Australia, contributing to the country's rich linguistic diversity.
- Imala is sometimes used as a lyrical or poetic name in Australian literature and song lyrics due to its musical sound.
Personality Traits
Common traits associated with the name imala:
- Elegant
- Graceful
- Unique
- Lyrical
- Culturally rich
Aesthetic Qualities
Imala has an aesthetic appeal due to its fluid syllables and melodic sound, suited to visual and typographic designs that highlight its elegance and grace.
Geographical Distribution
Most common in metropolitan areas like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane, especially among communities with African and Pacific Islander heritage, but used throughout the country as a distinctive personal name.
Numerological Significance
Name number: 8 (based on numerology); associated with strength, balance, and material success, aligning well with its connotations of grace and beauty.
Astrological Connections
No direct astrological associations, though the name's soft and harmonious sound is compatible with lunar or Venus-ruled star signs, often linked with beauty and harmony.
Historical Context
While not rooted in Australian history, the name Imala has appeared in contemporary multicultural Australian communities. It reflects Australia's growing appreciation for diverse linguistic backgrounds.
Linguistic Adaptability
The name adapts well into various scripts; in non-Latin scripts, it maintains its phonetic integrity. It is occasionally transliterated in phonetic spellings across communities.
Famous People Named imala
- Notable Australian bearer: Imala Johnson, a contemporary artist and poet.
- Imala is also referenced in Australian indie music and literature for its musical and poetic qualities.
- The name appears occasionally in Australian media, often associated with artistic and creative personalities.
Popularity in Australia
Year | Count |
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2016 | 1 |