Declining since 2015.
Popularity of Fathima since 1989
Babies named Fathima per year in U.S. Social Security records. Raw births topped out in 2006, but relative to how few babies were recorded back then, Fathima's real moment was 2015.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1980s | 6 |
| 1990s | 20 |
| 2000s | 107 |
| 2010s | 101 |
| 2020s | 6 |
Meaning & origin
Fathima entered the U.S. naming scene relatively recently, first recorded in 1989. The name saw a notable surge in usage, peaking in 2015, but has been on a downward trajectory since that year. While not among the top ranks, it remains a meaningful choice for families honoring Islamic tradition. The name is less common than its standard spelling 'Fatima,' but the 'Fathima' variant reflects South Asian pronunciations. Despite no top states or high-frequency statistics, its steady presence highlights enduring cultural ties. As of the latest data in 2025, the name continues to be used, though its popularity has waned from its 2015 peak.
Fathima (Arabic: Fāṭimah) is derived from the Arabic root f-ṭ-m, meaning 'to wean' or 'to abstain.' It is most famously borne by Fatima bint Muhammad, the beloved daughter of the Prophet Muhammad. The name has been widely used across the Muslim world for centuries and is especially revered in Shia Islam. Its spelling variant 'Fathima' is common in South Asia, reflecting regional pronunciation.
“Fathima” around the world
Where Fathima lands in the latest official birth statistics abroad, matched to the U.S. spelling.
France
5
babies in 2024
Sources: INSEE (France).
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Fati, Fatu, Tima
Sibling names for Fathima
Names that share Fathima's style, for a brother or sister.
