What is the origin of the name Manal?

The first name Manal is of Arabic origin. In Arabic, the name Manal means "hope" or "intellect". It is a unisex name but more commonly used for girls in many parts of the Arab world. The spelling may slightly vary depending on the region, such as Manela or Mona in some regions.

Learn more about the origin of the name Manal

The meaning, etymology, and origin of the name Manal

The name Manal originates from the Arabic language, where it is derived from the root word "n-l-m" which means "to support" or "to be established." It is a unisex name, but more commonly given to girls in Arabic-speaking countries such as Saudi Arabia, Lebanon, and Egypt. The name Manal has been used throughout history, with notable figures bearing this name including the Kuwaiti princess Manal Al-Sabah and the Emirati artist Manal Al-Ayasheh. In modern times, it is a popular choice for parents seeking traditional yet contemporary names for their children. The name Manal symbolizes strength, stability, and support, making it an appropriate choice for someone who embodies these qualities.

Character traits associated with the name Manal

The name Manal is often associated with intelligence and wisdom. This name, of Arabic origin, carries characteristics that suggest a deep-thinking, insightful individual. Manals are known for their empathetic nature, making them compassionate and understanding towards others. They possess strong leadership qualities, yet they maintain a balanced approach, demonstrating diplomacy and fairness in their interactions with others. Additionally, creativity is a significant trait associated with the name Manal, reflecting an innovative spirit that fuels their curiosity and problem-solving abilities. Overall, a Manal is likely to be intelligent, empathetic, creative, diplomatic, and fair, making them admirable and respected figures in any setting.

Popularity of the name Manal

The first name Manal is relatively popular in certain regions and communities, particularly within the Arabic-speaking world. It has roots in both Arabic (meaning "tranquility" or "calmness") and Hebrew (meaning "source of delight"), which adds to its allure across various cultures. However, its popularity varies significantly between countries and regions. For instance, it is more commonly used in the Middle East compared to Western nations. In the United States, for example, Manal ranks outside the top 1000 most popular girls' names according to the Social Security Administration's data. Nonetheless, its uniqueness and attractive meaning continue to endear it to many parents seeking a distinctive and meaningful name for their child.

Famous people with the name Manal

Manal Rostom is an Egyptian actress and television presenter known for her roles in various popular Arabic series, including "Al-Hobb Ya Mashkoul" and "Sabaya Bint al-Saud." Born on July 28, 1977, in Cairo, Egypt, she began her career as a host for Rotana TV before transitioning to acting. Rostom's talent has earned her numerous awards, including the Best Actress Award at the Arab Festivals Awards and the Golden Nile Award.

Another notable figure named Manal is Manal Al-Sharif, a Saudi women's rights activist. In 2011, she was one of the first women to defy the ban on female driving in Saudi Arabia, which led to her arrest and international attention. Her advocacy for gender equality has made her an influential figure in the Middle East and beyond.

In addition, Manal Al-Ahmadi is a Bahraini journalist and TV presenter who is known for her work with Al-Arabiya News Channel. She has covered various significant events, including the Arab Spring and the Gulf Crisis. Her courageous reporting and dedication to truth have made her a respected figure in the journalism industry.

Variations of the name Manal

The name Manal is derived from the Arabic word "manal" meaning "a beacon" or "lighthouse." It's a unisex name popular in the Arab world, but predominantly used for females in Western cultures. Variations of this name include Manaal (in Arabic), Mona, Monah, Manela, Manelle, and Manele, which are adaptations in different languages such as Hebrew, Aramaic, and Romance languages respectively. The name Manal can also be spelled with slight variations, like Manoll, Mannahl, or Manhall, depending on regional pronunciation and transliteration differences. These versions maintain the essence of the original Arabic name while adapting to different cultural contexts.
NomOrigine Team
About the author :

NomOrigine Team

Passionate about genealogy, name history, and linguistics, we have been analyzing the origins of names for over 3 years. Our content is based on verified historical, etymological, and statistical data.

Last updated :

Share the origin and meaning of your name with your friends

Search the origin of a first name

Enter the first name you are looking for below:

Similar First Names