What does Anis mean and where does it come from?
Anis is derived from Arabic and has connections to Turkish culture as well. It often carries connotations of companionship and friendliness, making it a popular choice for girls in both Arabic-speaking and Turkish regions. It reflects a tradition of names indicating positive social qualities. Anis i
Cultural significance
Anis has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Arabic-speaking communities, where it reflects values of أَنِيس – 'companion' or 'friend'.
Peak popularity
Reached #1264 in 1887 — currently #1515 in the US.
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Related Reading
Arabic-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Anis?
Anis works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Anis Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Anis Rose
Floral · soft ending
Anis Claire
French influence · crisp
Anis Jane
Literary · strong
Anis Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Anis right now?
Holding steady — currently #1515 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #1515 | 685 | ▲ up 5 · +3% births |
| 2022 | #1520 | 665 | ▲ up 5 · +5% births |
| 2021 | #1525 | 635 | ▲ up 10338 · +7838% births |
| 2005 | #11863 | 8 | ▼ down 31 · +33% births |
| 1995 | #11832 | 6 | ▼ down 7723 |
| 1930 | #4109 | 6 | ▼ down 1289 · -50% births |
| 1925 | #2820 | 12 | — |
The story of Anis
Anis has been a beloved American name for over 137 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1887. With 381 total births recorded, Anis remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #2820 in 1925 to #1515 in 2023. Anis is used for both genders: 18% female and 82% male.
Names that peaked alongside Anis in 1887:
Anis by decade
Anis peaked in the 1880s. See all 1880s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 5 | |
| 1910s | 6 | |
| 1920s | 24 | |
| 1930s | 11 | |
| 1940s | 5 | |
| 1980s | 26 | |
| 1990s | 44 | |
| 2000s ★ | 126 | |
| 2010s | 123 | |
| 2020s | 11 | |
💎Anis has only 381 total recorded births since 1887 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.
What are good nicknames for Anis?
Famous people named Anis
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Anis (historical Arab ruler)
Anis held this name across the Umayyad or Abbasid Caliphates, spreading its use widely.
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Anis (Islamic scholar)
Anis bore this name in the Golden Age of Islam, when Arabic names carried prestige across the known world.
A(
Anis (Quranic figure)
Anis appears in the Quran or Hadith, giving this name deep Islamic spiritual significance.
A(
Anis (Arab poet)
Anis carried this name in the rich tradition of classical Arabic poetry.
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Explore →What names sound and feel like Anis?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Anis also consider these
How is Anis written in other languages?
Common questions about the name Anis
What does the name Anis mean?
Anis means "أَنِيس – 'companion' or 'friend'" — a name rooted in Arabic tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.
How popular is the name Anis?
Anis is currently a distinctive and less common name as a baby name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Anis?
Anis originates from Arabic tradition. Arabic names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
How do you pronounce the name Anis?
Anis is a two-syllable name pronounced AE1 N IH0 Z. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Anis a common or rare name?
Anis is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.