Origin
Arabic origin, from شاكِلة (Shākila), meaning 'beautiful', 'graceful', or 'dignified'. The name has roots in Islamic cultures and is popular among Arabic-speaking populations. It entered Australia through immigrant communities from the Middle East and South Asia, especially those belonging to Muslim and Arab diaspora groups.
Meaning
Literal translation and nuance: 'beautiful' or 'graceful'. In Australian English contexts, it connotes elegance, charm, and dignity, often associated with positive attributes of personality and appearance.
Pronunciation
/ʃɑːˈkiːla/ (shah-KEE-la, with emphasis on the second syllable) [Australian English pronunciation] , indicating a clear and elegant pronunciation suitable for diverse communities.
Variants & Nicknames
Variants
- Shakira
- Shakila
- Shakila' (alternative spelling) ,
Nicknames
- Shaki
- Shak
Name Days
- None widely observed in Australian calendars, but in some Islamic communities, the name is commemorated on the Islamic calendar but specific dates vary.
- In Muslim cultural contexts worldwide, the name might be celebrated on occasions like Eid or during Ramadan, but these are not specific to the Australian context.
- Indigenous cultural events do not specifically celebrate this name.
Name Pairings
Names that pair well with shakila:
- Amira and Shakila
- Layla and Shakila
- Amina and Shakila
Fun Facts
- The name Shakila is popular among Middle Eastern and South Asian Australian communities, often chosen for its poetic and elegant sound.
- Shakila gained international recognition through the 1970 Bollywood film 'Shakila', although the name's use in Australia is more culturally rooted in migrant communities.
- The name is occasionally used in Australian arts and cultural festivals celebrating Middle Eastern heritage.
Personality Traits
Common traits associated with the name shakila:
- Elegant
- Graceful
- Dignified
- Warm-hearted
Aesthetic Qualities
The name has a flowing, lyrical quality, with aesthetic appeal in its symmetry and smooth sound, often appealing in multicultural naming choices in Australia.
Geographical Distribution
Most common in urban centres with significant Middle Eastern, North African, and South Asian populations, such as Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane, reflecting migration patterns.
Numerological Significance
Name number 9, associated with humanitarianism, compassion, and idealism, aligning with traits admired in Australian multicultural values. The name's vibrational energy is considered to promote empathy and artistic expression.
Astrological Connections
May be associated with the zodiac signs Taurus and Libra, emphasising beauty, harmony, and grace. No specific astrological significance but can be linked to birth dates in these signs for personal traits.
Historical Context
Named after historical and contemporary figures in Muslim societies; notably, Pakistani singer and actress Shakila, who gained fame in the 1950s and 1960s. The name is also used in literature and films to evoke grace and beauty.
Linguistic Adaptability
The name is adaptable across languages, with variants like Shakira in Spanish, but in Australia, it retains its original pronunciation and spelling due to community preferences.
Famous People Named shakila
- Shakila (Pakistani singer and actress, 20th century)
- Shakila (a character in Australian multicultural literature)
- Shakila (multiple contemporary artists and community leaders)
Popularity in Australia
Year | Count |
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2015 | 1 |