زينب

Zaynab

girlArabicMuslim

Zaynab is a Muslim girl name of Arabic origin, meaning “A fragrant desert plant; ornament”.

MeaningA fragrant desert plant; ornament
GenderGirl
OriginArabic
Written asزينب
PronunciationZAY-nab
TraditionMuslim
Used inWorldwide

Meaning and origin of Zaynab

Zaynab is the spelling that stays closest to the Arabic of this treasured name. Early dictionary writers describe zaynab as a fragrant shrub of the desert. It was the name of the Prophet's ﷺ eldest daughter and of his granddaughter Zaynab bint ʿAlī, whose speeches after Karbala are widely remembered, and two Mothers of the Believers, Zaynab bint Khuzayma and Zaynab bint Jaḥsh, carried it too.

Is Zaynab a Muslim name?

Few Muslim girls' names carry more weight than Zaynab, the name of the Prophet's ﷺ daughter, granddaughter and two of his wives.

How popular is Zaynab?

It appears everywhere in the Muslim world and is particularly loved in Arab and Shia communities.

Gifts with the name Zaynab

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Spellings and variants of Zaynab

ZainabZeinabZeynepZainebZaynabu

Names similar to Zaynab

More Muslim girl names

Frequently asked questions

What does the name Zaynab mean?

Zaynab means 'A fragrant desert plant; ornament'. It is of Arabic origin.

Is Zaynab a Muslim name?

Few Muslim girls' names carry more weight than Zaynab, the name of the Prophet's ﷺ daughter, granddaughter and two of his wives.

How do you pronounce Zaynab?

Zaynab is pronounced ZAY-nab.

Is Zaynab a boy or girl name?

Zaynab is usually a girl name.

Updated October 2026. Spotted a mistake? Tell us.