Yahya: Name Meaning, Origin, & Popularity

Boy name origins & meanings

What does Yahya mean and stand for?

Meaning:

Arabic: To live; full of life; God is good

Gender: Male

Syllables: 2

Pronunciation: The name Yahya is pronounced yah-yah

Yahya is of Arabic origin and means "to live" or "full of life." It is often considered a deeply meaningful name in Islamic culture, being associated with the Prophet John (Yahya in Arabic).

Boy name variations

Yahya in Pop Culture

Do you know these fictional characters that share the first name?

Yahya Abdel-Mateen II from Watchmen - An actor portraying the character Cal Abar, who is a pivotal figure in the series' exploration of race and history.
Yahya from The Hiding Place - A character who embodies courage and resilience in the face of adversity during wartime.
Yahya from The Killing of Two Lovers - This character navigates the complexities of family and love, reflecting the challenges young adults face in their relationships.
Yahya from The Faithful - A strong and charismatic leader inspiring his followers through trials and tribulations.
Yahya from A Dream So Dark - A character who struggles with identity and belonging, set in a richly built fantastical world.

Popularity of the Name Yahya

According to Social Security Administration data, Yahya has seen a notable rise in popularity, particularly within certain cultural communities. Although it has not yet broken into the top 200 names in the U.S., it resonates with many due to its deep religious and historical significance, especially in Islamic tradition as the Arabic form of John. The name Yahya has historical roots dating back to biblical times, adding to its appeal. Prominent figures such as Yahya Hawwa, a renowned Syrian poet, have also contributed to its recognition.