What does Idris mean and where does it come from?
Idris is a name of Arabic origin that has become increasingly popular in various parts of the world, including English-speaking countries. In Arabic culture, it often refers to someone who is an educator or a scholar. The name is notably associated with the Islamic prophet Enoch. In the UK, Idris is
Cultural significance
Idris has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Arabic-speaking communities, where it reflects values of interpreter, one who is educated.
Peak popularity
Reached #4263 in 1920 — currently #790 in the US.
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Related Reading
Arabic-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Idris?
Idris works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Idris Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Idris Rose
Floral · soft ending
Idris Mae
Sweet · timeless
Idris Claire
French influence · crisp
Idris Jane
Literary · strong
Idris Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Idris right now?
Declining — down 22 spots — currently #790 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #790 | 319 | ▼ down 22 · -3% births |
| 2022 | #768 | 329 | ▲ up 88 · +20% births |
| 2021 | #856 | 274 | ▲ up 3407 · +3814% births |
| 1920 | #4263 | 7 | — |
The story of Idris
Idris entered American naming records in 1920 and has been in use for over 104 years. With 3,396 total births recorded, Idris remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #4263 in 1920 to #790 in 2023. Idris is used for both genders: 1% female and 99% male.
Names that peaked alongside Idris in 1920:
Idris by decade
Idris peaked in the 1920s. See all 1920s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1910s | 5 | |
| 1920s | 20 | |
| 1950s | 7 | |
| 1970s | 281 | |
| 1980s | 288 | |
| 1990s | 345 | |
| 2000s | 543 | |
| 2010s ★ | 1,632 | |
| 2020s | 275 | |
💎With 3,396 total births, Idris is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Idris?
Famous people named Idris
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Idris (historical Arab ruler)
Idris held this name across the Umayyad or Abbasid Caliphates, spreading its use widely.
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Idris (Sufi mystic)
Idris used this name in the tradition of Islamic mysticism and spirituality.
I(
Idris (Islamic scholar)
Idris bore this name in the Golden Age of Islam, when Arabic names carried prestige across the known world.
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Idris (Quranic figure)
Idris appears in the Quran or Hadith, giving this name deep Islamic spiritual significance.
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Explore →What names sound and feel like Idris?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Idris also consider these
Common questions about the name Idris
What does the name Idris mean?
Idris means "interpreter, one who is educated" — 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 Idris?
Idris is currently ranked #790 as a baby name in the US and is rapidly gaining popularity — searches for Idris have increased significantly in recent years.
What is the cultural origin of Idris?
Idris 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.
Is Idris trending right now?
Idris is currently on the rise — it has gained significant momentum in recent years as parents discover its appeal.
Is Idris more of a girl or boy name?
Idris is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.