Hafsa is a feminine given name of Arabic origin, derived from the word 'ḥafs' which means 'divider'. It is often translated to mean 'clear', 'distinctive', or 'unique'.
The name Hafsa has a significant history and appears several times in Islamic tradition. The most notable figure associated with this name is Hafsa bint Umar, who was the daughter of Umar ibn al-Khattab, the second caliph of Islam. She married Uthman ibn Affan, the third caliph, making her one of the most influential women in early Islamic history.
In some cultures, Hafsa is also associated with strength and courage due to its association with the lioness (also known as 'ḥafs' in Arabic). This could be a contributing factor to why the name has been chosen for daughters in certain communities.
Overall, Hafsa is a name rich in history and culture, carrying meanings of distinctiveness and uniqueness. It continues to be popular among Muslim families around the world who wish to honor Islamic tradition or simply appreciate its unique sound and meaning.
The name Hafsa has seen a significant increase in popularity over the past few decades in the United States. According to statistical data on births, there were only five births with the name Hafsa in 1981. However, by 2023, that number had risen to 151 births, indicating a substantial growth in popularity.
The years between 1996 and 2006 marked a significant turning point for the name Hafsa, with a steady increase in its usage each year. In 1996, there were 22 births with the name Hafsa, but by 2006, that number had more than tripled to 74 births.
From 2007 onwards, the popularity of the name Hafsa continued to rise, reaching a peak in 2021 with 128 births. Even during the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, when many parents might have been preoccupied with other matters, there were still 104 births with the name Hafsa.
Overall, between 1981 and 2023, there have been a total of 2,303 babies named Hafsa born in the United States. This demonstrates that while once quite uncommon, the name Hafsa has now become well-established and popular among American parents.