Aisha
/ˈʕaː.ʔi.ʃa/
Aisha means “living, alive” in Arabic, from the root ʿa-y-sh. The name carries enormous significance in Islamic tradition as the name of Muhammad’s third wife, Aisha bint Abu Bakr, who was known for her intelligence and extensive knowledge of hadith.
Aisha bint Abu Bakr became one of the most influential women in early Islam, and her name is used widely across the Muslim world.
The name is particularly favored by Sunni Muslims, reflecting historical sectarian distinctions in Islamic naming practices.
What the name Aisha means
In the US, Aisha first gained traction in the 1970s, peaking at No. 175 in 1977. Stevie Wonder’s song Isn’t She Lovely (1976), written for his daughter Aisha, contributed to its crossover appeal.
After decades of declining use, the name has shown surprising resilience. Aisha ranked No. 346 in 2024 with 900 births, and recent years have seen it climb from a low of No. 536 in 2020.
The 3-syllable pronunciation (ah-EE-shah) has a gentle, flowing quality. Variant spellings include Ayesha, Aysha, and Iesha.
For parents seeking a name with deep religious and cultural roots, a beautiful meaning, and a sound that works gracefully in English, Aisha is a choice of genuine substance.
Its recent rebound suggests a new generation is discovering its timeless appeal.
US popularity over time
Numerology and symbolism
Based on Pythagorean numerology — a traditional system linking name letters to numbers. Presented for cultural interest.
Famous people named Aisha
Aisha - similar names
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