Help with name spelling

Bride7-7-07

We have FINALLY decided on a name for DD, who is due any day now.  However, we are struggling with a spelling.  Yes, I understand that people will probably mispronounce it seeing that it is of Arabic decent, however, I am trying to look for the most phonetic spelling.

It is correctly spelled: Eiliyah, which means the beautiful one to grow in peace and love with God.  Yes, it is a real name and not made up.

It is pronounced: El - ee - yah

So, for spelling, I was thinking either: Elliyah or Elliya

I know how uneek spelling is frowned upon on this board, however, I am looking for an easier spelling and in turn make pronunciation a bit easier.  I am open for suggestions.  Thanks!

 

Michellie7

I agree to keep it spelled the way it is originally. I've never seen this name, but I actually pronounced it just as you described anyways... it's very beautiful! 

manda42

I would spell it just like that. When I read it, I pronounced it correctly. It is a beautiful name, and I wouldn't do anything to change it. 

ames71

I would absolutely stick with the original spelling. It seems like an easy pronunciation to me. Lovely name, BTW.

QueenNini

I agree w/PP's. Use the original spelling

juniper19

Well, since it is an Arabic name, there is no correct spelling in English. They are all just approximate transliterations based on the sound in Arabic. Do you speak Arabic? Just pick the transliteration that is closest to the sound in Arabic.

If you want to go with a name that is more familiar I suggest Aliyah which I have to imagine has the same root.

brachatzipora

I'm a lurker but I wanted to comment.  I absolutely only know this name as a boy's name.  In Hebrew, it would be Eliyah or Eliyahu... the Hebrew transliteration of Elijah.  The Hebrew pronunciation would not be "el"... it would be more "ay-lee-yah."

https://baby-names.familyeducation.com/name-meaning/eliyah

That said, it's a beautiful meaning.  The most common transliteration is "Eliyah."

mel-bell

If you want an easier spelling, how about Elia or Eliah?  I would personally go with the original spelling you shared.

MrsWindyCity

Before I read your how-to on pronouncing it, I pronounced it correctly in my head. I would leave it as-is. It's a pretty name. In all honesty, the same number of people will mispronounce it no matter how you spell it. My name is Elly and I have seriously gotten everything from Eli to Ee-lee.

Chele

The way you pronounce your name choice is the same pronunciation as a former contestant on Top Chef. She was from France and spelled her name Elia.

Meow71

elliyah

Bride7-7-07

juniper19:

Well, since it is an Arabic name, there is no correct spelling in English. They are all just approximate transliterations based on the sound in Arabic. Do you speak Arabic? Just pick the transliteration that is closest to the sound in Arabic.

If you want to go with a name that is more familiar I suggest Aliyah which I have to imagine has the same root.

I do not speak Arabic, however, DH speaks fluent Arabic and both our children will too.

Bride7-7-07

brachatzipora:

I'm a lurker but I wanted to comment.  I absolutely only know this name as a boy's name.  In Hebrew, it would be Eliyah or Eliyahu... the Hebrew transliteration of Elijah.  The Hebrew pronunciation would not be "el"... it would be more "ay-lee-yah."

https://baby-names.familyeducation.com/name-meaning/eliyah

That said, it's a beautiful meaning.  The most common transliteration is "Eliyah."

I was afraid that people would think it is Elijah.  I know that Hebrew and Arabic pronunciations can be very different at times. Thank you for your opinion

MelodyKate

I see nothing wrong with using the original spelling, but if you are really concerned, I would do Elia or Ellia. When I hear that name out loud, that is what comes to mind as a phonetic spelling. I don't think you need the Y or H phonetically and it makes it look made up.