Hilal
Hilal is a Muslim unisex name of Arabic origin, meaning “Crescent moon, new moon”.
| Meaning | Crescent moon, new moon |
|---|---|
| Gender | Unisex |
| Origin | Arabic |
| Written as | هلال |
| Pronunciation | hee-LAHL |
| Tradition | Muslim |
| Used in | Gulf States, Turkey, Pakistan, Egypt |
Meaning and origin of Hilal
Hilal is the Arabic word for the thin crescent of the new moon; its root, h-l-l, describes the new moon appearing and shining. The sighting of the hilal begins every Islamic month, including Ramadan and the two Eids, so the word is woven into Muslim life. In Arab countries and South Asia it is a boys' name, while in Turkey it is mostly given to girls. The famous tribe of Banū Hilāl, celebrated in Arab epic, is named after the same word.
Is Hilal a Muslim name?
Hilal is tied closely to the Islamic calendar, and its plural appears in 'They ask you about the new moons. Say: they are measures of time for people and for Hajj' (Quran 2:189).
How popular is Hilal?
Boys bear it in the Arab world and South Asia, and it is a popular choice for girls in Turkey.
Gifts with the name Hilal
- Hilal name necklaces & bracelets (Amazon)
- Personalised Hilal baby gifts (Amazon)
- Muslim baby gifts & books (Amazon)
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Spellings and variants of Hilal
Names similar to Hilal
More Muslim unisex names
Frequently asked questions
What does the name Hilal mean?
Hilal means 'Crescent moon, new moon'. It is of Arabic origin.
Is Hilal a Muslim name?
Hilal is tied closely to the Islamic calendar, and its plural appears in 'They ask you about the new moons. Say: they are measures of time for people and for Hajj' (Quran 2:189).
How do you pronounce Hilal?
Hilal is pronounced hee-LAHL.
Is Hilal a boy or girl name?
Hilal is used for both boys and girls.