What does Kabir mean and where does it come from?
Kabir is a name of Arabic and Sanskrit origin, meaning 'great' or 'the great one.' It is famously associated with the 15th-century poet-saint Kabir Das, who is revered in both Hinduism and Sikhism. The name holds significant cultural importance in India and among South Asian communities and is also
Cultural significance
Kabir has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in India-speaking communities, where it reflects values of great.
Peak popularity
Reached #859 in 2020 — currently #1020 in the US.
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Related Reading
India-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Kabir?
Kabir works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Kabir Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Kabir Rose
Floral · soft ending
Kabir Mae
Sweet · timeless
Kabir Claire
French influence · crisp
Kabir Jane
Literary · strong
Kabir Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Kabir right now?
Declining — down 47 spots — currently #1020 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #1020 | 214 | ▼ down 47 · -8% births |
| 2022 | #973 | 232 | ▼ down 136 · -18% births |
| 2021 | #837 | 284 | ▲ up 22 · +8% births |
| 2020 | #859 | 262 | ▲ up 296 · +61% births |
| 2015 | #1155 | 163 | ▲ up 1046 · +172% births |
| 2010 | #2201 | 60 | ▲ up 111 · +18% births |
| 2005 | #2312 | 51 | ▲ up 397 · +50% births |
| 2000 | #2709 | 34 | ▲ up 1085 · +100% births |
| 1995 | #3794 | 17 | ▲ up 325 · +21% births |
| 1990 | #4119 | 14 | ▲ up 510 · +56% births |
| 1985 | #4629 | 9 | ▼ down 188 |
| 1980 | #4441 | 9 | — |
The story of Kabir
Kabir is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 1976. With 2,398 total births recorded, Kabir remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #4441 in 1980 to #1020 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Kabir in 2020:
Kabir by decade
Kabir peaked in the 2020s. See all 2020s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1970s | 29 | |
| 1980s | 86 | |
| 1990s | 178 | |
| 2000s | 471 | |
| 2010s ★ | 1,372 | |
| 2020s | 262 | |
💎With 2,398 total births, Kabir is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Kabir?
What names sound and feel like Kabir?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Kabir also consider these
Common questions about the name Kabir
What does the name Kabir mean?
Kabir means "great" — a name rooted in India 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 Kabir?
Kabir is currently a distinctive and less common name as a boy 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 Kabir?
Kabir originates from India tradition. India 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 Kabir?
Kabir is a two-syllable name pronounced K AA1 B ER1. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Kabir a common or rare name?
Kabir is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.