صنم

Sanam

girlPersian / Urdu usage of an Arabic wordMuslim

Sanam is a Muslim girl name of Persian / Urdu usage of an Arabic word origin, meaning “Beloved (in poetry)”.

MeaningBeloved (in poetry)
GenderGirl
OriginPersian / Urdu usage of an Arabic word
Written asصنم
Pronunciationsah-NAM
TraditionMuslim
Used inIran, Pakistan, Afghanistan

Meaning and origin of Sanam

Persian and Urdu poets use sanam for the beloved, the idol of a lover's affection, and this poetic image made it a well-liked girl's name in Iran, Pakistan and Afghanistan. The word was borrowed from the Arabic ṣanam, whose literal meaning is an idol. The Quran uses it in that literal sense, and for this reason some families and scholars prefer not to use it.

Is Sanam a Muslim name?

Sanam is used by Muslim families in its poetic sense of beloved, but because its literal Arabic meaning is idol, some scholars discourage it and suggest names like Sana or Sanaa instead.

How popular is Sanam?

It is used in Iran, Afghanistan and Pakistan, mostly for its romantic poetic sense.

Gifts with the name Sanam

As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. We may earn a small commission from these links, at no extra cost to you.

Spellings and variants of Sanam

SanumSanamm

Names similar to Sanam

More Muslim girl names

Frequently asked questions

What does the name Sanam mean?

Sanam means 'Beloved (in poetry)'. It is of Persian / Urdu usage of an Arabic word origin.

Is Sanam a Muslim name?

Sanam is used by Muslim families in its poetic sense of beloved, but because its literal Arabic meaning is idol, some scholars discourage it and suggest names like Sana or Sanaa instead.

How do you pronounce Sanam?

Sanam is pronounced sah-NAM.

Is Sanam a boy or girl name?

Sanam is usually a girl name.

Updated October 2026. Spotted a mistake? Tell us.