Anwar

“luminous”

Arabic origin · Unisex name

♂ 96% boys♀ 4% girls

#3179US 2023

38Births / yr

↓Falling

2.7kAll-time births

📅 Since 198000

How to pronounce Anwar

AH·nwahr

/ˈɑ.nwɑr/ · stress on AH · 2 syllables

“luminous”

Arabic origin · Unisex name

What does Anwar mean and where does it come from?

Anwar is primarily an Arabic name, which means 'luminous' or 'radiant'. It is commonly used in Arabic-speaking countries and is often given to indicate light or enlightenment. The name has been popular among notable figures, such as Anwar Sadat, the former President of Egypt. Anwar has cultural sign

Cultural significance

Anwar has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Arabic-speaking communities, where it reflects values of arabic.

Peak popularity

Reached #7170 in 1980 — currently #3179 in the US.

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What middle names flow best with Anwar?

Anwar works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful

Anwar Grace

How popular is Anwar right now?

Falling — down 173 spots — currently #3179 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names

US Trend 1980–2023#3179 · Top 2.3%

1980

1985

1995

2000

2015

2020

2021

2022

2023

Year	US Rank	Births	vs Prior Year
2023	#3179	38	▼ down 173 · -7% births
2022	#3006	41	▲ up 1114 · +64% births
2021	#4120	25	▲ up 11310 · +400% births
2020	#15430	5	▼ down 609 · -17% births
2015	#14821	6	▼ down 2666 · -14% births
2000	#12155	7	▲ up 94 · +17% births
1995	#12249	6	▼ down 858 · +20% births
1985	#11391	5	▼ down 4221 · -44% births
1980	#7170	9	—

Name Popularity Timeline

Popularity Statistics for Anwar

Best Year2022Rank #3006

Peak Count41

Average Rank#9280

Current Trend↗Rising

Data Range1980 - 20239 years

The story of Anwar

Anwar is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 1980. With 2,674 total births recorded, Anwar remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #7170 in 1980 to #3179 in 2023. Anwar is used for both genders: 4% female and 96% male.

Names that peaked alongside Anwar in 1980:

Jennifer Amanda Jessica Melissa Sarah

Anwar by decade

Anwar peaked in the 1980s. See all 1980s names →

Decade	Births
1960s	6
1970s	488
1980s ★	754
1990s	407
2000s	540
2010s	441
2020s	38

💎With 2,674 total births, Anwar is an uncommon but established name.

What are good nicknames for Anwar?

Common

Anw

Famous people named Anwar

Anwar (historical Arab ruler)

Anwar held this name across the Umayyad or Abbasid Caliphates, spreading its use widely.

Anwar (Islamic scholar)

Anwar bore this name in the Golden Age of Islam, when Arabic names carried prestige across the known world.

Anwar (Arab poet)

Anwar carried this name in the rich tradition of classical Arabic poetry.

Anwar (historical Arab ruler)

Anwar held this name across the Umayyad or Abbasid Caliphates, spreading its use widely.

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What names sound and feel like Anwar?

Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Anwar also consider these

Anwaar

Arabic · Means 'radiance' or

Antar

Arabic · Male lion

Anhar

Arabic · Bright, radiant

Ansar

Arabic · Helpers

Anmar

Arabic · Compassionate

Awar

Arabic · A Arabic name

How is Anwar written in other languages?

أنور

Arabic

Common questions about the name Anwar

What does the name Anwar mean?

Anwar means "Arabic" — 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 Anwar?

Anwar is currently a distinctive and less common name as a baby name in the US and is becoming rarer and more distinctive, making it a unique choice that stands out.

What is the cultural origin of Anwar?

Anwar 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 Anwar?

Anwar is a two-syllable name pronounced AA1 N W AA0 R. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.

Is Anwar a common or rare name?

Anwar is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.