Declining since 1993.
Popularity of Karimah since 1971
Babies named Karimah per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1970s | 101 |
| 1980s | 128 |
| 1990s | 182 |
| 2000s | 93 |
| 2010s | 65 |
| 2020s | 19 |
Meaning & origin
Karimah entered U.S. naming records in 1971, a period when Arabic names were gaining modest visibility. Its use peaked in 1992 and has been in gradual decline since 1993, reflecting broader naming trends that favor either classic or newly coined names. Though it has never broken into the national top 1,000, Karimah carries a clear etymology rooted in the Arabic concept of generosity, making it a meaningful choice for families with cultural ties. The trajectory of decreasing use suggests it remains a distinctive name without becoming dated.
Karimah is the feminine form of the Arabic name Karim, derived from the root k-r-m, which conveys generosity, nobility, and honor. It has been used across the Arabic-speaking world and among Muslim communities for centuries, often reflecting a desirable personal quality.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Kari, Rima, Kima
Variants: Kareema, Kerima
Sibling names for Karimah
Names that share Karimah's style, for a brother or sister.
