Basma as a Baby Name. Meaning and Origin of Basma

What is the meaning of the name Basma ?

The baby name Basma is a Female name , 2 syllables long and is pronounced /ˈbas.ma/ (BAS-mah).

Basma is Arabic in Origin.

Basma (بسمة) is an Arabic feminine given name derived from the triliteral root B-S-M, the verb basama “to smile,” and the noun basma “a smile.” It conveys warmth, cheer, and graceful composure - often interpreted as “one who brings a smile” or “gentle smile.” The name’s phonetic simplicity aids its travel across languages while retaining its clear meaning.

In use throughout the Arab world since the 20th century, Basma appears in Levantine, Egyptian, North African, and Gulf naming traditions, and among diaspora communities. A well-known bearer is Princess Basma bint Talal of Jordan, which helped familiarize the name internationally. Common spellings include Basma, Basmah, Bassema/Basema, and Bassma, reflecting French or English transliteration habits. Related names from the same root are the masculine Basim/Bassem (باسم) meaning “smiling,” and the feminine Ibtisam (ابتسام, “smile”). Not to be confused with Hebrew Basmat/Basmath, which has a separate etymology and meaning.