Wahida

Wahida is an Arabic feminine given name, the feminine form of Wahid. Etymologically, Wahid derives from the Arabic root w-ḥ-d, meaning "one" or "unique." The name thus carries the connotation of being "peerless" or "unique," reflecting a quality of singularity and high value. In Islamic tradition, al-Waḥīd (الوحيد) is one of the 99 names of Allah, emphasizing the divine attribute of oneness and uniqueness.

Wahida, sometimes spelled Waheeda in Urdu contexts, is used across the Arabic-speaking world and in regions with significant Muslim populations, particularly in South Asia. The name bears a legacy of notable women who have made their mark in fields including activism, arts, sports, and public service. Among them, Waheeda Rehman (born 1938) is a celebrated Indian actress whose career spans decades, earning numerous awards and recognition as one of Hindi cinema's finest performers. In literature, Waheeda Naseem was a prominent Pakistani novelist and writer. The name also appears in philanthropy and journalism, with Wahida Amiri recognized for her advocacy for women's rights in Afghanistan, and Wahida Faizi for her courageous work as a journalist. In the military sphere, Wahida Prism Khan made history as the first Indian naval surgeon. Um Hanadi, real name Wahida Mohamed al-Jumaily, was an Iraqi militant commander, reflecting the name's presence even in conflict zones.

Variants and related forms include Waheeda, particularly common in Urdu-speaking communities, and the Turkish equivalent Vahide. The masculine counterparts Waheed and Wahid are also widely used across the Islamic world.

• Meaning: "Peerless," "unique"
• Origin: Arabic (feminine form of Wahid)
• Usage: Arabic, Urdu, Turkish; Muslim communities globally
• Related names: Waheeda (variant), Vahide (Turkish), Wahid (masculine)