Amina

Amina is a feminine given name of Arabic origin. It derives from the Arabic root amin, meaning "trustworthy, faithful" or "safe." The feminine form is commonly interpreted as "trustworthy one" or "faithful one." The name is transliterated in multiple ways, including Amina, Aminah, Amīnah, Ameena, or Amna, and can be shortened to Mina in some cases.

Usage of the name is widespread in the Arab world and across many African communities, particularly in East and West Africa where Arabic influence has been strong. It is also common among Muslim communities in South Asia, Europe, and North America. The name’s popularity reflects values associated with integrity, honor, and protection.

Notable bearers of the name include Amina J. Mohammed, a Nigerian-British diplomat who serves as United Nations Deputy Secretary-General, and Amina Wadud, an American Islamic scholar known for advocacy of inclusive gender roles in prayer.

The name Amina also appears in literature and film as a common given name for female characters, reflecting its cross-cultural appeal. Variants and related names such as Aminah, Ameena, Amna, and Amin show how pronunciation and spelling adapt to different languages and orthographies.