Dua

Depending on origin, it’s associated with prayer/supplication (Arabic du‘ā’) and/or is used as a feminine name in Albanian-language contexts.

Dua is used as a feminine given name in more than one context. In Arabic, it closely matches the word du‘ā’ (supplication or an invocation), and in Albanian-language usage it appears as a modern given name as well. Which association matters most usually depends on a family’s language and cultural background. From an etymology standpoint, it’s best to treat Dua as multi-origin in modern use. In Arabic contexts, it’s tied to the concept of a prayer or supplication and is often transliterated into Latin script as Dua (or occasionally with punctuation like Du’a). In Albanian contexts, it functions as a standalone given name and may be explained through Albanian-language meaning and contemporary naming choices rather than a single shared root with the Arabic term. Pronunciation in English is commonly DOO-ah (two clear syllables). A practical tip is to mention whether you intend the Arabic meaning association when relevant, since the same spelling can be read differently across communities.

Etymology: In Arabic, the related term du‘ā’ (often written as dua/duaa in Latin script) refers to supplication or an invocation. In Albanian usage, Dua is also found as a given name, with everyday explanations commonly linking it to Albanian-language meaning and modern usage rather than a single fixed historical root.