rahime

Rahime is a feminine given name used in Turkish-speaking communities and in parts of the Caucasus, the Balkans, and among diaspora communities in Europe and the Middle East. The name appears in various spellings, including Rahima and Rahimah, reflecting different transliteration practices from Arabic and Turkish sources.

Etymology and form: Rahime is derived from the Arabic Raḥīmah, meaning merciful or compassionate, and is the feminine form related to Raḥīm. In Turkish and related languages, spellings such as Rahime, Rahima, and Rahimah reflect transliteration choices and phonology. The pronunciation commonly approximates rah-HEE-meh in Turkish.

Usage and cultural context: The name is commonly given to girls in Muslim communities where Arabic-derived names are popular. It is used in Turkey and Azerbaijan, among others, and often appears in compound given names or as part of longer double names. Its popularity has varied with trends in religious naming and cultural influence.

Variants and related names: Related forms include Rahima, Rahimah, and Raheema. There are also other regional spellings and transliterations that reflect different languages and dialects. The name Rahime sits within a broader family of names derived from the root Raḥm, which is associated with mercy and compassion in Islamic naming practices.