MallowbyNames

Surah

SOO-rah · A chapter of the Quran; also interpreted as 'happy' or 'beautiful' in Arabic.

2025 rank (girls)
#4,758
Babies named in 2025
28
Peak popularity
2022
2025 frequency
1 in 57,402 girls
Usually for
Girls
Trend
Rising since 2007

Rising since 2007, #4,758 for girls today.

Popularity of Surah since 2007

Babies named Surah per year in U.S. Social Security records.

10192920102020Most births 2018Girls
Data table (by decade)
DecadeGirls
2000s18
2010s125
2020s135

Meaning & origin

Surah is a modern Arabic-derived name that first appeared in U.S. records in 2007, given to newborn girls. It ranked 4758 in 2025, with approximately 1 in 57402 babies receiving the name, reflecting a relatively rare usage. The name reached its peak popularity in 2022, and its trajectory shows a consistent rise since introduction. Top states of use include Pennsylvania and California, suggesting concentrations in areas with diverse Muslim populations. As a direct reference to a chapter of the Quran, the name carries religious significance for many families, while also being appreciated for its phonetic beauty. Its entry into American naming practice aligns with broader trends of honoring cultural and religious heritage.

Surah is directly derived from the Arabic word 'sūrah', which refers to a chapter of the Quran. As a given name, it may also be linked to the Arabic 'surur' meaning 'happiness' or 'joy'. The name has seen occasional use in the United States since the 2000s, likely reflecting cultural and religious appreciation within Muslim communities.

Where Surah is most popular

Births per 100,000 girls by state, 2025. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.

Sibling names for Surah

Names that share Surah's style, for a brother or sister.

Sisters: Aisha, Fatima, Layla, Noor, Zara

Brothers: Yusuf, Omar, Hassan, Zayn, Khalil

A parent animal hugging its little one, the personalized name page

S is for Surah, our favorite little girl.

S is for Surah…”

In a Mallowby alphabet book, Surah's letter becomes Surah's page: hand-illustrated, printed hardcover or paperback, made just for them.

Make Surah's book

Books for siblings or grandkids? The second book is 15% off.

Questions parents ask

What does the name Surah mean?
Surah means a chapter of the Quran, and is also associated with happiness or beauty in Arabic.
How popular is the name Surah?
In 2025, Surah ranked 4758 with 1 in 57402 newborns receiving the name. It has been rising since first recorded in 2007, peaking in 2022.
Is Surah a boy's or girl's name?
Surah is used almost exclusively for girls.