Aliyah

Ascent, to go up — a girl name of Hebrew origin

GenderGirl
OriginHebrew
MeaningAscent, to go up
Pronunciationuh-LEE-uh

Popularity of Aliyah in the United States

#263Rank in 2025
1,188Births in 2025
#133 in 2011Peak Popularity
↓ Declining10-Year Trend

Data: U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA). Based on all Social Security card applications for births in the United States.

Meaning & Origin of Aliyah

Aliyah comes from the Hebrew word meaning "ascent" or "to go up," historically referring to the act of immigrating to the Land of Israel, considered a spiritual elevation in Jewish tradition. As a given name it took on independent popularity in the late twentieth century, particularly within African American communities, gaining enormous cultural momentum through R&B singer and actress Aaliyah. Its meaning of rising and elevation gives it a hopeful, aspirational quality. Today it remains widely used across multiple spelling variations throughout the United States.

Aliyah Around the World

Aliyah is used in 0 languages worldwide, with 1+ international variants.

Languages
Details

TypeFemale given name

International Variants
AlyaArabic

Linguistic data: Wikidata (CC0). Variants and language usage may vary by region.

Nicknames for Aliyah

AliLeah

Famous People Named Aliyah

  • Aaliyah — American singer and actress (alternate spelling)
  • Aliyah Boston — American professional basketball player

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Sibling Name Ideas for Aliyah

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Frequently Asked Questions

What does the name Aliyah mean?

Aliyah is a girl name of Hebrew origin meaning "Ascent, to go up." Aliyah comes from the Hebrew word meaning "ascent" or "to go up," historically referring to the act of immigrating to the Land of Israel, considered a spiritual elevation in Jewish tradition. As a given name it took on independent popularity in the late twentieth century, particularly within African American communities, gaining enormous cultural momentum through R&B singer and actress Aaliyah.

How do you pronounce Aliyah?

Aliyah is pronounced uh-LEE-uh. Common variations include Aaliyah, Alayah, Aliya.

Is Aliyah a girl name?

Yes, Aliyah is traditionally a girl name. Popular nicknames include Ali, Leah.

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