What does Sharif mean and where does it come from?
Sharif is traditionally a male name in Arabic culture, commonly associated with nobility. As a female name, it reflects female empowerment and nobility. It is frequently encountered in countries like Egypt and other Arabic-speaking regions. The name carries historical significance, often linked to d
Cultural significance
Sharif has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Arabic-speaking communities, where it reflects values of شريف.
Peak popularity
Reached #8765 in 1970 — currently #1952 in the US.
🌿
Related Reading
Arabic-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Sharif?
Sharif works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Sharif Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Sharif Rose
Floral · soft ending
Sharif Mae
Sweet · timeless
Sharif Claire
French influence · crisp
Sharif Jane
Literary · strong
Sharif Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Sharif right now?
Holding steady — currently #1952 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #1952 | 248 | ▲ up 5 · +9% births |
| 2022 | #1957 | 228 | ▲ up 5 · +15% births |
| 2021 | #1962 | 198 | ▲ up 6803 · +3860% births |
| 1970 | #8765 | 5 | — |
The story of Sharif
Sharif is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 1970. With 2,613 total births recorded, Sharif remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #8765 in 1970 to #1952 in 2023. Sharif is used for both genders: 0% female and 100% male.
Names that peaked alongside Sharif in 1970:
Sharif by decade
Sharif peaked in the 1970s. See all 1970s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1960s | 41 | |
| 1970s | 543 | |
| 1980s | 643 | |
| 1990s ★ | 679 | |
| 2000s | 436 | |
| 2010s | 248 | |
| 2020s | 23 | |
💎With 2,613 total births, Sharif is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Sharif?
Common
ShaSharSharieSharyArif
Famous people named Sharif
S(
Sharif (Sufi mystic)
Sharif used this name in the tradition of Islamic mysticism and spirituality.
S(
Sharif (Arab poet)
Sharif carried this name in the rich tradition of classical Arabic poetry.
S(
Sharif (historical Arab ruler)
Sharif held this name across the Umayyad or Abbasid Caliphates, spreading its use widely.
S(
Sharif (Sufi mystic)
Sharif used this name in the tradition of Islamic mysticism and spirituality.
👑
Celebrity Names
What celebrities named their babies in 2024
Explore →What names sound and feel like Sharif?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Sharif also consider these
How is Sharif written in other languages?
Gender variants of Sharif
Common questions about the name Sharif
What does the name Sharif mean?
Sharif means "شريف" — 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 Sharif?
Sharif 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 Sharif?
Sharif 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 Sharif?
Sharif is a two-syllable name pronounced SH ER0 IY1 F. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Sharif a common or rare name?
Sharif is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.