Nadia is a female name, used predominantly in Italy, Spain, France, Russia, Iran, and some Arab countries. Its origins are likely in the Arabic language although it is widely used in the Slavic and Russian language. Variations include: Nadja, Nadya, Nadine, Nadzia, Nadiya, Nadiyya, Nadija, Nadzeya, Nada and Nantia. During the 16th and 17th Centuries, the Ottoman Islamic Empire was one of the most powerful states in the world controlling much of Southeast Europe, Western Asia, and the Caucasus. With the spread of the Islamic Empire came the spread of the Arabic language. The word 'nadiya' in Arabic refers to dew or the drops of water on the plant in the early morning. It also is related to the verb 'nadaa' meaning to call or announce, as is mentioned in the Holy Quran.