Origin
Arabic; from the root ر ف ض (rafad) meaning 'to refuse' or 'to rebuff'. Rufaida is an Arabic name historically used in the Islamic world, notably associated with Rufaida Al-Aslamia, regarded as the first female Muslim nurse and healthcare worker in early Islamic history. The name appears in historical Islamic texts and has traditional significance in Middle Eastern and Islamic cultures.
Meaning
'Compassionate', 'kind', or 'servant of the healer'—reflecting qualities of care and mercy highly valued in Muslim communities. In Australian contexts, it embodies a sense of cultural heritage and respectful recognition of Islamic history.
Pronunciation
/ruːˈfaɪdə/ (roo-FY-duh, with emphasis on the second syllable) , Australian English pronunciation tends to be clear and enunciated, reflecting the pronunciation in Arabic.
Variants & Nicknames
Variants
- رفيدة (Arabic script)
- Rufaida (Latin script, standard spelling)
- Rufaida (alternative transliterations, e.g., Rufaida, Rofaidah)
Nicknames
- Rufa
- Rufi
Name Days
- 8 June (Algerian and other Muslim calendars celebrate Rufaida's contributions)
- 20 March (Islamic World Day, commemorating significant figures in Islamic history)
- Optional cultural acknowledgment in Australian multicultural celebrations
Name Pairings
Names that pair well with rufaida:
- Amina and Rufaida
- Layla and Rufaida
- Fatima and Rufaida
Fun Facts
- Rufaida Al-Aslamia is recognised as the first female Muslim nurse and surgeon, with her legacy celebrated in Islamic history, including in contemporary Australia where she symbolises women's contributions to healthcare.
- The name Rufaida is often chosen among Muslim families in Australia to honour cultural roots and historical figures, fostering cultural identity and pride.
- Rufaida is a relatively rare name in Australia but is increasingly appreciated in multicultural and Islamic communities.
Personality Traits
Common traits associated with the name rufaida:
- Compassionate
- Nurturing
- Resilient
- Culturally proud
Aesthetic Qualities
The name has an elegant, melodious quality in written and spoken form, with a balanced syllabic structure that appeals visually and phonetically, reflecting grace and dignity.
Geographical Distribution
Most common among Muslim communities in Australian cities with significant Middle Eastern, North African, or Pakistani populations, such as Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane.
Numerological Significance
Name number 3 in numerology, associated with creativity, communication, and social interaction; believed to bring harmony and expressive qualities to the bearer.
Astrological Connections
Not specifically associated with any zodiac sign; however, personal astrology would consider the birth date for specific traits and influences, typical for Australian parents interested in astrology.
Historical Context
Rufaida Al-Aslamia was a pioneering female figure in Islamic history, noted for her skills as a nurse, surgeon, and healthcare innovator during the early 7th century. Her contributions are celebrated in Islamic medical history and are increasingly recognised in multicultural Australia as part of recognising women's roles in history.
Linguistic Adaptability
The name adapts well across languages, retaining pronunciation and spelling in Latin, Arabic, and other scripts. It is phonetically familiar across many languages, maintaining its cultural significance.
Famous People Named rufaida
- Rufaida Al-Aslamia (Historical healer and nurse) in Islamic history
- Contemporary Australian Muslims with this name contributing to healthcare, education, and community services.
- Fictional characters in Australian literature or media with the name Rufaida have yet to emerge significantly.
Popularity in Australia
| Year | Count |
|---|---|
| 2024 | 1 |