Declining since 2019, #3,517 for girls today.
Popularity of Jamilah since 1965
Babies named Jamilah per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1960s | 22 |
| 1970s | 349 |
| 1980s | 474 |
| 1990s | 532 |
| 2000s | 442 |
| 2010s | 544 |
| 2020s | 293 |
Meaning & origin
Jamilah, the feminine form of Jamil, carries a meaning of beauty and grace that resonates across cultures. The name first appeared in U.S. records in 1965, a time of growing cultural exchange and interest in names from the Arabic-speaking world. It reached its peak rank of 351 in 1977, with a notable concentration of use in the state of Illinois, which remained its most common state through its trajectory. Since 2019, its usage has been declining, reflecting broader trends in naming where mid-century peaks often give way to newer choices. At its 2025 rank of 3,517, Jamilah remains a distinctive choice with a strong, positive meaning, and a connection to a rich linguistic heritage.
Jamilah is the feminine form of the Arabic name Jamil, deriving from the root j-m-l (ج م ل), which conveys beauty and grace. It has been used across the Arabic-speaking world and Muslim communities for centuries, often chosen to reflect physical or spiritual beauty. The name entered English-speaking use in the mid-20th century, alongside a broader interest in Arabic and Islamic names.
Where Jamilah is most popular
Births per 100,000 girls by state, 2025. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Jami, Mila, Jaja
Sibling names for Jamilah
Names that share Jamilah's style, for a brother or sister.
