Is it permissible to use diminutive forms of children's names that include one of Allah's Beautiful Names, such as "Abd Al-Aziz" becoming "Azoozah" or "Azoo," and is it permissible to name females "Arwa," "Malak," or "Malaak"?
It is permissible to use the name "Azoozie" instead of "Abdul Aziz," but it is preferable to diminutive the word "Abd." There is no harm in naming a child "Arwa." As for naming a child "Malak," it is disliked due to its implication of self-praise (tazkiya). Naming a female "Malak" (angel) is apparently forbidden due to its resemblance to the polytheists who considered angels to be daughters of God. Sheikh Ibn Uthaymeen mentioned the dislike of being named "Malak." However, if the name "Malak" does not refer to an "angel" in the custom of the country, there is no dislike in it from the perspective of tazkiya, although it is better to avoid it. The best approach is to observe the guidance of the Prophet (peace be upon him) regarding names.
Summarized from the full answer at Ftawy · reviewed Sep 2, 2026
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