Arifa

♀ Girl

Pronounced ah-REE-fah /ɑːˈriː.fə/Medium

Meaning: Arabic, the feminine of Arif, from a root meaning 'to know' — so 'knowing, wise, learned, well-informed'. In Sufi tradition the related word carries a sense of deep spiritual knowledge. A well-documented name across the Muslim world.Medium

In 30 seconds: A name for a knowing mind: Arifa is Arabic for 'wise, learned' (said 'ah-REE-fah').

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Origin HighArabic

MeaningArabic, the feminine of Arif, from a root meaning 'to know' — so 'knowing, wise, learned, well-informed'. In Sufi tradition the related word carries a sense of deep spiritual knowledge. A well-documented name across the Muslim world.

U.S. rank (2021)#12344 ↗ Rising

2021 U.S. births7 girls (0.00% of U.S. girls)

Peak year2021

Total births (all-time)≈ 33

Popularity in the U.S. · SSA data

U.S. births per year (Social Security Administration, 1880–present). Pink marker = peak year.

SSA data updated May 2026. How we source & verify this data.

History & Origin

Arifa is the feminine of Arabic Arif, 'one who knows'. It is used across the Arabic-speaking world and in South Asia, and it carries a quiet compliment: wisdom, awareness, understanding. A well-attested and well-loved name (said 'ah-REE-fah').

In the U.S. it is rare. Rare, thoughtful, and heritage-rich.

Did you know? The root behind Arifa means 'to know'. In Sufi thought, the related word describes one who has arrived at deep spiritual knowledge — a rich and respectful association we note here (said 'ah-REE-fah').

Overall data confidence 72%

References — Arifa — Arabic; feminine of Arif, 'one who knows'

Variations

ArifahAarifa

Nicknames

AriRifa

Famous Bearers

Famous bearers coming soon.

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Frequently Asked

What does the name Arifa mean?

Arifa is Arabic for 'knowing, wise, learned' — the feminine of Arif.

How do you pronounce Arifa?

It's said ah-REE-fah /ɑːˈriː.fə/ — three syllables, stress on the second.

Is Arifa a boy or girl name?

Arifa is used as a girl's name; the masculine form is Arif.

How popular is Arifa?

Arifa is a rare name for girls in the U.S.