Aaliyah: Name Meaning, Origin, Popularity, & Inspiration

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Aaliyah

The name Aaliyah is of Arabic origin and means "high" or "exalted." It is a variation of Aliyah, signifying lofty or sublime.

- 13% this year Feminine Rare

Tara Rhiannon Dawn Fietz, BA, MFA

| Updated: March 5, 2025

Tara Rhiannon Dawn Fietz, BA, MFA

| Updated: March 5, 2025 Table of contents

Girl name origins & meanings

What does Aaliyah mean and stand for?

Meaning:

• Arabic: High, exalted
• Hebrew: Ascended, rising

Gender: Female

Syllables: 3

Pronunciation: The name Aaliyah is pronounced ah-LEE-yah

The name Aaliyah has its roots in Arabic, meaning "high" or "exalted", and while there are many different spellings, Aaliya is the feminine variation of Aali, a masculine Arabic name meaning "sublime" or "lofty." It also holds significance in Hebrew, where it means "ascended" or "rising." Gaining popularity in the late 20th century, particularly in the United States, the name Aaliyah has become synonymous with qualities of elevation and prominence.

Girl name variations

Alea Aleah Aleaseya Aliya Alia Aleeya Aliyah Allyiah

How Popular Is The Name Aaliyah

Aaliyah in Pop Culture

Do you know these characters that share this first name?

• Aaliyah Haughton from Queen of the Damned - Portrayed as the vampire Queen Akasha, Aaliyah Haughton's performance was her final acting role.

Popularity of the Name Aaliyah

According to Social Security Administration data, Aaliyah has been consistently popular, maintaining a strong presence in the top 100 baby names for several years. As of 2023, Aaliyah ranks within the top 100 most popular baby girl names in the United States. The name saw a significant rise in popularity following the success of the late American singer and actress Aaliyah Haughton, who became a cultural icon in the late 1990s and early 2000s.

Aaliyah is an Arabic name meaning "high" or "exalted," and it has been embraced by various cultures worldwide. In addition to Aaliyah Haughton, other notable individuals with this name include actress Aaliyah Moulden and fictional characters from TV series such as The Game and All American. The last Queen of Iraq also shares this name, though it was spelled Aliya. This name continues to evoke a sense of elegance and distinction, making it a favorite among parents today.

Where Is the Name Aaliyah Popular?

This name is most popular across certain states in the U.S., including those highlighted on the map below.

Nicknames for Aaliyah

These shortened names can make great nicknames for your baby.

• Ali
• Leah
• Lee
• LiLi

Aaliyah Pairs Well With These Middle Names

Looking for a middle name that fits perfectly? Consider these!

Allison Gretchen Kenya McKenna Victoria

Appears On

Browse these related baby name lists that feature this name and many, many more!

• The Top Muslim Girl Names for Your Little One
• ​Girl Names That Start With A
• Arabic First Names and Meanings

People Who Like the Name Aaliyah Also Like

Check out these names that are similar, but still unique to your baby.

Angela Candice Cleta Fran Giavanna

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