Aaliyah: Meaning, origin and popularity
Pronounced ah-LEE-uh · 3 syllables
Aaliyah means “exalted, sublime”, from Arabic.
Popularized by American singer Aaliyah Haughton (1979–2001). Transliteration of Arabic (aliya).
- Meaning
- exalted, sublime
- Origin
- Arabic
- Pronunciation
- ah-LEE-uh
- US rank (2025)
- #101
- US babies a year
- about 3,017 (2021–2025)
- Peak
- around 2010
How popular is Aaliyah?
Aaliyah was the #101 name in the US in 2025, given to 2,607 babies. It’s used less than it was: down 41% on 2011–2015. It peaked around 2010.
Around the world
| Country | Rank |
|---|---|
| United States | #101 |
| England & Wales | #125 |
| Scotland | #197 |
| Northern Ireland | #228 |
| Ireland | #229 |
| France | #167 |
| Canada | #179 |
| Australia | #98 |
How old are people named Aaliyah?
Half of US adults named Aaliyah are older than 23; most are between 18 and 31. (Estimated from US births by year and life tables.)
Names like Aaliyah
Chosen by the same families or with a similar style and era.
On these lists
Questions about Aaliyah
What does the name Aaliyah mean?
Aaliyah means “exalted, sublime”. It comes from Arabic.
How do you pronounce Aaliyah?
Aaliyah is pronounced ah-LEE-uh.
How popular is the name Aaliyah?
Aaliyah was the #101 name in the US in 2025, given to 2,607 babies. It’s used less than it was: down 41% on 2011–2015. It peaked around 2010.
How old are people named Aaliyah?
Half of US adults named Aaliyah are older than 23. Most are between 18 and 31.