Maytham

A significant name within Islamic tradition, the name was born by Maytham al-Tammar, a trusted and close companion of Iman Ali ibn Abu Talib, the forth Caliph (Muslim ruler). Known for his sacrifices to religion and loyalty to Iman Ali, he is viewed as a worthy namesake.

Also appearing as Meysem, Maitham, and Meysam, the name derives from Arabic and means "crushing". While this may sound like a negative meaning, it is generally interpreted to refer to the sound made by the hooves of a horse of camel.

The name may however have English origins too, appearing in the name of Great Maytham Hall, a listed country house, famous for being the inspiration behind the novel, The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett. In this case, the name may mean "estate with mayweed", "good homestead" or "maiden settlement".

Pronounced MY-tham.