Fatema

Fatema is a feminine given name common in Arabic‑speaking and Muslim communities, derived from the Arabic word فاطمة‎ (Fatimah). The name is generally understood to mean “she who weans” or “the one who abstains,” and it is associated with the Prophet Muhammad’s daughter Fatimah al‑Zahra, a revered figure in Islam. The spelling Fatema is a transliteration that appears frequently in South Asia and the Middle East, while variations such as Fatima, Fatimah, and Fathima are also widespread.

The name has been used by several notable individuals across fields such as politics, literature, and sports. For example, Fatema Abu Ammaar (born 1962) is an Indonesian politician who served in the People's Representative Council. Fatema Mernissi (1940–2015) was a Moroccan sociologist, writer, and feminist thinker who specialized in Islamic studies. In sports, Fatema Zohra, born in 1987, is a Tunisian long‑distance runner who has competed in international marathons. The name is also found among scholars and activists who advocate for women's rights and interfaith dialogue.

In contemporary usage, Fatema remains a popular choice among Muslim parents because it honors a central religious figure while carrying connotations of modesty and piety. The name is pronounced fa-TEH-ma with emphasis on the second syllable, though pronunciation can vary slightly with regional dialects. Fatema is frequently used in naming rituals, literature, and media across the Islamic world, reflecting its cultural resonance as a symbol of heritage and virtue.