hajra

Hajra is a feminine given name used in several Muslim-majority communities and among the diaspora. It is commonly spelled Hajira, Hajirah, or Hajarah, depending on transliteration from Arabic and regional pronunciation. The name is found in South Asia, the Middle East, and among communities with South Asian heritage.

Origin and meaning: The name is usually linked to the Arabic proper name Hajar (Hajrah), which in Islamic tradition refers to Hajar, the wife of Abraham and mother of Ishmael. In naming practice, Hajra may carry associations with that historical figure, symbolizing endurance, faith, and pivotal events in early Islamic narratives. The precise meaning can vary by language and culture, and some families choose the name for its sound or familial significance rather than a specific translation.

Usage: While most common as a personal name, Hajra may appear as a toponym or place name in some regions, though such uses are less widely documented. In many countries, it is primarily encountered as a first name among girls.

Variants and related names: Hajira, Hajirah, Hajarah, and sometimes Hajara or Hajarah. See also Hajar and Hagar.