Khalil

The Meaning & Origin of the Name Khalil

Gender Boy
Origin Arabic
Letters 6
Syllables 2
Pronunciation kuh-LEEL

Khalil, which has 6 letters and 2 syllables, is a male name of Arabic origin.

Meaning of Khalil

Friend

Khalil is an Arabic name meaning "friend" or "companion". It is also used as a variant of the Hebrew name Caleb.

Save
Rate:
(3/5 from 3 votes)
Meaning Friend
Origin Arabic
Gender Boy
Popularity (US) #391 in 2024 Declining Fast
Rarity (US) Uncommon (Top 500)
Era 90s name

Background & History of The Name Khalil

The name Khalil is of Arabic origin and has a rich cultural and historical significance. It is frequently used as a given name for boys in Arabic-speaking countries and is pronounced as Ka-LEEL. The name Khalil is derived from the Arabic word "khalil" which means "friend" or "companion". With a strong meaning like this, it is no wonder that the name Khalil is popular among parents who desire their child to be known for their friendly and loyal nature.

In Islamic tradition, Khalil is also an epithet of the Prophet Ibrahim, who is considered the epitome of friendship and righteousness in Islamic teachings. Prophet Ibrahim was known as Khalilullah, which means "friend of God". This association with such a revered figure adds an extra layer of significance to the name Khalil, making it a name of great honor among Muslim families.

Furthermore, the name Khalil is not only used as a given name but is also found in surnames and place names across the Arab world. It is a name that carries a sense of genealogy, family history, and communal identity. It is passed down from one generation to the next, symbolizing the deep-rooted connections between family members.

Throughout history, individuals named Khalil have made notable contributions in various fields. From poets and writers to scientists and scholars, Khalils have left a lasting impact on their respective domains. Notable figures include Khalil Gibran, a renowned Lebanese-American artist, poet, and writer, who is celebrated worldwide for his philosophical works.

In summary, the name Khalil holds a significant place in Arabic culture and Islamic tradition. It signifies friendship, loyalty, and carries an association with the esteemed Prophet Ibrahim. Whether it is as a given name or a surname, Khalil is a name that represents a deep sense of identity, heritage, and accomplishment.

Popularity Over Time

US Social Security Administration data showing the rank of Khalil over the years.

Check Initials

See what initials Khalil would create with your last name.

Nicknames

Common nicknames and short forms for Khalil.

Save This Name

Create an account to save names to your lists and share with your partner.

Create Free Account

Partner Matching

Rate names with your partner and find the ones you both love.

Learn More

Sibling Matcher

Find names that pair well with your existing children's names.

Find Sibling Names