Middle East origin · popularized by various notable figures
♂ 97% boys♀ 3% girls
#3278US 2023
37Births / yr
↑Rising
2.1kAll-time births
📅 Since 196200
How to pronounce Tarek
TAH·REK
/ˈtɑ.ˈrɛk/ · stress on TAH · 2 syllables
“morning star”
Middle East origin · Boy name
What does Tarek mean and where does it come from?
Tarek is derived from the Arabic word 'tariq' (طَارِق) which means 'morning star' or 'he who knocks at the door.' The name is predominantly used in Arabic-speaking countries and has been popularized by various notable figures, including Tarek Ramadan, a Swiss Muslim academic and philosopher.
Cultural significance
Tarek has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Middle East-speaking communities, where it reflects values of arabic.
Peak popularity
Reached #1316 in 1985 — currently #3278 in the US.
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Related Reading
Middle East-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Rising fast — up 124 spots — currently #3278 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
US Trend 1965–2023#3278 · Top 2.4%
1965
1970
1975
1980
1985
1990
1995
2000
2005
2010
2015
2020
2021
2022
2023
Year
US Rank
Births
vs Prior Year
2023
#3278
37
▲ up 124 · +6% births
2022
#3402
35
▲ up 84 · +6% births
2021
#3486
33
▼ down 79 · +3% births
2020
#3407
32
▼ down 754 · -30% births
2015
#2653
46
▲ up 604 · +35% births
2010
#3257
34
▼ down 749 · -24% births
2005
#2508
45
▼ down 396 · -6% births
2000
#2112
48
▼ down 391 · -8% births
1995
#1721
52
▲ up 47 · +16% births
1990
#1768
45
▼ down 452 · -17% births
1985
#1316
54
▲ up 330 · +50% births
1980
#1646
36
▲ up 342 · +50% births
1975
#1988
24
▲ up 211 · +33% births
1970
#2199
18
▲ up 412 · +64% births
1965
#2611
11
—
Name Popularity Timeline
Popularity Statistics for Tarek
1985Rank #1316
54
#2490
↘Falling
1965 - 202315 years
The story of Tarek
Tarek is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 1962. With 2,124 total births recorded, Tarek remains relatively uncommon. Once ranked #2611 in 1965, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #3278 in 2023.
Tarek means "Arabic" — a name rooted in Middle East 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 Tarek?
Tarek is currently a distinctive and less common name as a boy name in the US and is rapidly gaining popularity — searches for Tarek have increased significantly in recent years.
What is the cultural origin of Tarek?
Tarek originates from Middle East tradition. Middle East 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 Tarek?
Tarek is a two-syllable name pronounced T AA1 R EH1 K. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Tarek trending right now?
Tarek is currently on the rise — it has gained significant momentum in recent years as parents discover its appeal.
Sibling names that pair with Tarek
For a sister
Tarek & Asiha♡
Tarek & Jabri♡
Tarek & Zara♡
Tarek & Jowharah♡
For a brother
Tarek & Hameen♡
Tarek & Jabri♡
Tarek & Nasear♡
Tarek & Kontar♡
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