Khadijaخديجة

/kha-DEE-jah/

ArabicGirl

Khadija is an Arabic girl's name pronounced /kha-DEE-jah/. The name Khadija literally means 'premature child' or 'born early' in Arabic.

Meaning of Khadija

The name Khadija literally means 'premature child' or 'born early' in Arabic.

It is derived from the Arabic root k-d-j, which refers to something born before it is fully developed. Despite the literal meaning, the name is deeply venerated because it was borne by the first wife of the Prophet Muhammad. In Islamic history, she was a highly successful businesswoman and the first person to convert to Islam.

Origin
Arabic
Pronunciation
/kha-DEE-jah/

Cultural background

It is one of the most common female names across the Muslim world, from the Middle East and North Africa to Southeast Asia and the Balkans. It is often chosen for its religious significance and associations with dignity and loyalty.

Variations & nicknames

  • Khadijah
  • Hatice
  • Kadidia
  • Kady
  • Hadice
  • Khatadja

Famous people named Khadija

Well-known namesakes — celebrities, historical figures and characters.

  • Khadija bint Khuwaylid

    The first wife and follower of the Prophet Muhammad.

    Religion · 555–619 AD

  • Khadija Arib

    Dutch politician who served as Speaker of the House of Representatives.

    Politics · Modern

  • Khadija Shaw

    Jamaican professional footballer and top scorer for Manchester City.

    Sport · Modern

  • Khadija Mastur

    Highly regarded Pakistani short story writer and novelist.

    Literature · 20th Century

  • Khadija Ryadi

    Moroccan human rights activist and former president of AMDH.

    Human Rights · Modern

  • Khadija Ismayilova

    Azerbaijani investigative journalist and radio host.

    Journalism · Modern

Frequently asked about Khadija

Is Khadija a common name?
Yes, it is extremely popular in Muslim-majority countries and among Muslim communities worldwide due to its historical importance.
How do you pronounce the 'kh' sound in Khadija?
The 'kh' is a voiceless velar fricative, a raspy sound similar to the 'ch' in the Scottish word 'loch'.
What is the Turkish version of the name?
In Turkey, the name is very common and is typically spelled and pronounced as Hatice.

Love Khadija? Get more names like it

We'll email you 5 fresh Arabic names each week — free, no spam.

Compare Khadija with…

Side-by-side meaning, sound and popularity.

More Arabic names

See all Arabic names
Find more names like Khadija