Sharif is a name of Arabic origin, derived from the word "sharīf," which means "noble" or "distinguished." It is often used as both a given name and a surname throughout the Middle East and North Africa.
The name Sharif has been popularized in recent times by several notable figures. One such figure is Sharif Hussein bin Ali, who was the emit of Mecca from 1908 to 1924. He played a significant role in the Arab Revolt during World War I against the Ottoman Empire and later became king of the Hijaz region. Another notable figure is Sharif El-Gamal, an American businessman and philanthropist who founded several successful companies.
Historically, the name Sharif has been associated with royalty and nobility. In many Middle Eastern cultures, a sharif is someone who is believed to be descended from the Prophet Muhammad through his daughter Fatima and her husband Ali, making them part of the noble Hashemite lineage. As such, the name Sharif carries with it a sense of dignity, honor, and prestige.
Today, the name Sharif continues to be popular among families in the Middle East and beyond who wish to bestow their children with a strong, meaningful name rooted in history and culture. Its simple yet elegant sound makes it appealing to many parents looking for a unique and significant name for their child.
The name Sharif is not particularly common, with only five births recorded annually in the United States as of 1970. This figure represents the total number of newborns given this name each year during that time period. Despite its relatively low frequency, there are still a significant number of people who bear this name throughout the country. However, it is important to note that these statistics may vary from year to year and region to region. Nevertheless, Sharif remains a distinctive and unique choice for parents looking for an uncommon name for their child.