Basma is a feminine given name of Arabic origin. It is derived from the Arabic word "basam", which means "smile". The name Basma is often associated with beauty and joy, as it evokes the image of a bright smile.
The name Basma has been used for centuries in the Arab world and has gained popularity in recent years among non-Arabic speaking communities due to its pleasant sound and meaning. It is considered to be a strong and confident name, reflecting the personality traits of those who bear it.
In Islamic tradition, Basma is often associated with the concept of "basmala", which is the phrase "Bismillah ir-Rahman ir-Rahim" meaning "In the name of God, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful". This phrase is recited before performing any good deed or starting any task, and it signifies submission to Allah's will.
Overall, the name Basma carries a positive connotation and reflects the beauty and joy that it signifies. It is a popular choice among parents who wish to give their daughters a unique and meaningful name with deep roots in Islamic tradition.
Based on the statistics provided, the name Basma has seen varied popularity over time in the United States. The first recorded birth with this name was in 1980, with five girls named Basma that year. This number remained consistent at five births again in 1985.
The name began to gain some traction in the early 1990s, with six births each in 1989 and 1991. It then experienced a notable increase between 1992 and 1993, with eight births each year. This pattern of fluctuations continued throughout the decade, ranging from five to eleven births per year.
In the new millennium, Basma's popularity surged significantly. The number of births peaked at 29 in 2017, marking a significant increase from previous years. Although there was a slight dip in popularity in subsequent years (16 births in 2022), it has maintained a steady average above ten births per year since 2013.
Overall, based on these statistics, the name Basma has become more popular in recent decades compared to its earlier trends. With a total of 432 births recorded from 1980 to 2023, it's clear that this name continues to be chosen by parents for their daughters in the United States.