Rising since 1998, #3,389 for girls today.
Popularity of Sumayya since 1990
Babies named Sumayya per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1990s | 39 |
| 2000s | 87 |
| 2010s | 120 |
| 2020s | 176 |
Meaning & origin
Sumayya is an Arabic name with deep religious roots and a quiet but steady history in the United States. First recorded in U.S. naming data in 1990, it reached its peak rank of 3,389 in 2025, with approximately 1 in 35,717 newborn girls given the name that year. Its popularity has been rising since 1998, reflecting broader interest in names with Islamic heritage and spiritual significance. The name is most common in states with substantial Muslim communities, such as Pennsylvania, New York, and Illinois. While not a top-ranked name, Sumayya offers a meaningful choice for families drawn to names of faith, honor, and elevated meaning.
Sumayya is the feminine form of the Arabic name Sumayy, which is a diminutive of the name Sami, meaning 'high,' 'exalted,' or 'lofty.' It is historically significant as the name of Sumayya bint Khayyat, an early convert to Islam and one of the first martyrs in Islamic history, revered for her steadfast faith. The name has been used across the Muslim world for centuries and continues to be well-liked among contemporary families seeking a name with religious and cultural resonance.
Where Sumayya is most popular
Births per 100,000 girls by state, 2025. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Somaya, Somi, Suma
Sibling names for Sumayya
Names that share Sumayya's style, for a brother or sister.
