Soraya

What does the baby name Soraya mean? Learn about what Soraya means, its history & origin, popularity in our random name database, pronunciation, similar names, nicknames & spelling variations.

Soraya - Name Meaning, Origin & Popularity

Spelling of Soraya: S-O-R-A-Y-A, is a 6-letter female given name.
Pronunciation of Soraya: so RAY yah; so RIE yah
Meaning of Soraya: Rich, the pleiades, princess.
Origin of Soraya: 'Soraya' is a name that originates from Persian and Arabic cultures. It is believed to have Persian roots and is derived from the word 'Thurayya', which means 'the Pleiades' or 'the cluster of stars' in Arabic. The Pleiades is a star cluster that holds great significance in many ancient cultures, symbolizing beauty, guidance, and inspiration. The earliest known use of the name 'Soraya' can be traced back to ancient Persia, where it was commonly given to girls as a symbol of celestial beauty and grace.; Arabic Names; Iranian Names; Lebanese Names; Persian Names
Popularity of Soraya: The popularity of the name 'Soraya' has varied over time. In the Persian and Arabic-speaking world, 'Soraya' has always been a cherished and popular name. However, its popularity in Western cultures has seen fluctuations. In the mid-20th century, 'Soraya' gained some attention due to the marriage of 'Soraya' Esfandiary-Bakhtiari, an Iranian princess, to the Shah of Iran. This event brought the name 'Soraya' into the spotlight and led to a notable spike in its usage.; Soraya currently has 3 likes, and is in the top 13% of liked girl's names. The name Abayomi is slightly more popular than Soraya.

Etymology of Soraya

The etymology of the name 'Soraya' can be traced back to the Arabic word 'Thurayya', as mentioned earlier. The word 'Thurayya' itself is believed to have originated from the ancient Greek word 'Pleias', which means 'a flock of doves'. This connection to doves further emphasizes the association of the name 'Soraya' with beauty, purity, and peace.

Cultural Significance of Soraya

The name 'Soraya' holds great cultural significance in Persian and Arabic cultures. In Persian culture, it is seen as a name of elegance, sophistication, and femininity. It is often associated with strong and influential women who possess both inner and outer beauty. In Arabic culture, the name 'Soraya' is believed to bring good fortune and blessings to the bearer. It is considered a name of celestial beauty and is often given to girls as a wish for a bright and prosperous future.