Origin
Zehra is a name of Arabic origin, derived from the root 'z-h-r', meaning 'bright' or 'radiant'. It is commonly used in Muslim communities worldwide, including among Australia's diverse population. The name 'Zehra' appears in Islamic texts and has historical usage among Middle Eastern and South Asian cultures.
Meaning
Literal translation: 'bright' or 'radiant'. In the Australian context, it connotes beauty, radiance, and positivity, often associated with inner light and clarity.
Pronunciation
/ˈzeh-rah/ (Australian English pronunciation, with stress on the first syllable)],[zɛˈhɹɑː] (IPA, alternative pronunciation with a softer 'r' in some regions).
Variants & Nicknames
Variants
- Zehra (original Arabic spelling)
- Zahra (alternative spelling)
- Zahira (related name)
Nicknames
- Zehri
- Zehz
Name Days
- 2 May (Islamic calendar date, varies annually)
- 15 August (Assumption of Mary - some Christian communities in Australia may celebrate associated feast days)
- No fixed date in Australian culture; observed primarily within Islamic communities celebrating Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha.
Name Pairings
Names that pair well with zehra:
- Zehra and Amina
- Zehra and Layla
- Zehra and Sara (Sarah)
Fun Facts
- Zehra is a popular name among Australian Muslim families, often chosen for its beautiful meaning.
- The name is used by several Australian Muslim community leaders and artists, symbolising radiant personalities.
- Zehra has appeared in Australian literature and media representing vibrant female characters.
Personality Traits
Common traits associated with the name zehra:
- radiant
- compassionate
- intelligent
- bright-minded
Aesthetic Qualities
Elegant and melodic, with a balanced vowel-consonant structure that is pleasing to the eye and ear in Australian English typography and pronunciation.
Geographical Distribution
Most common among Muslim communities within urban centres like Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane, with regional variances reflecting migration patterns.
Numerological Significance
Name number 7 in Pythagorean numerology, often associated with introspection, spiritual awareness, and analytical thinking, adding a layer of depth to personal attributes.
Astrological Connections
No specific astrological associations, though individuals named Zehra may resonate with themes of brightness and inner illumination in personal astrology.
Historical Context
Zehra is notably associated with Khadijah Zehra, a prominent Australian Muslim community leader. The name features in Islamic literature and is popular in Middle Eastern and South Asian diaspora communities. It is also associated with historical figures such as Zehra Hanımefendi, consort of the Ottoman sultan Abdulhamid II.
Linguistic Adaptability
The name easily adapts across languages with similar phonetic structures, such as Turkish (Zehra), Urdu (Zehra), and Arabic (Zahra). It remains recognisable and retains its meaning across cultures.
Famous People Named zehra
- Zehra Akyol (Australian Muslim community leader)
- Zehra Raza (Australian poet)
- Zehra Akhtar (social activist)
Popularity in Australia
Year | Count |
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2024 | 1 |