Meliha

Meliha is a Turkish feminine given name derived from the Arabic name Maliha, ultimately from the Arabic root m-l-ḥ meaning "salt" but figuratively conveying qualities of beauty, elegance, and grace. The name entered Turkish through Ottoman Turkish ملیحه (Meliha), which directly borrowed from Arabic مَلِيحَة (malīḥa), the feminine form of the adjective meaning "beautiful, graceful, elegant." Structurally, Meliha is the feminine equivalent of the Turkish masculine name Melih.

In Turkish culture, Meliha is a relatively uncommon but traditional name, reflecting the Ottoman-era influence of Arabic on Turkish onomastics. It belongs to a set of names that evoke poetic and aesthetic virtues, consistent with the literal Arabic meaning of the root. The name is primarily used in Turkey and among Turkish diaspora communities, retaining a classical and refined aura.

Related forms include Maliheh, the Persian variant, and Maliha itself, which is used in other Muslim-majority regions such as Urdu-speaking areas. While firm historical bearer statistics are not readily published, the name's sustained though niche usage suggests appreciation for its melodious sound and uplifting meaning.

• Meaning: "beautiful, elegant" (Arabic)
• Origin: Turkish (from Arabic via Ottoman)
• Type: Feminine given name
• Usage Regions: Turkey