Khalil Boy
Name Meaning & Origin Pronunciation: kuh-LEEL //kəˈliːl//
Origin: Arabic
Meaning: friend; companion
Historical & Cultural Background
The name Khalil originates from the Arabic root 'kh-l-l,' which conveys the meaning of 'friend' or 'companion.' The earliest forms of the name can be traced back to the Arabic language, where it is used as a masculine given name. Khalil is often associated with the Arabic word 'khalilullah,' meaning 'friend of God,' a title attributed to the biblical figure Abraham in Islamic tradition.
This connection underscores the name's deep religious significance, as it reflects a close relationship with the divine, a theme prevalent in various Abrahamic faiths. Historically, the name Khalil has been borne by notable figures throughout Islamic history.
One of the most prominent was Khalil ibn Ahmad al-Farahidi, an influential 8th-century linguist and poet who is credited with establishing the principles of Arabic prosody and lexicography. His contributions to the Arabic language and literature have had a lasting impact, further embedding the name Khalil in cultural and scholarly contexts.
Additionally, the name appears in various historical texts and religious writings, reinforcing its significance across centuries. Culturally, Khalil carries connotations of loyalty, friendship, and companionship, making it a name that resonates with values of community and kinship.
The name's enduring presence in Islamic culture is also reflected in its use among various Muslim communities around the world, where it is often celebrated for its positive attributes. The diminutive form 'Khal' is sometimes used affectionately, though Khalil remains the more formal and widely recognized version.
Overall, the name Khalil encapsulates a rich tapestry of linguistic, historical, and cultural significance that has persisted through the ages.
Famous people named Khalil
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U.S. Historical Usage
The name Khalil was first seen in the United States in 1957. Khalil has ranked as high as #485 nationally, which occurred in 2020, and has been most popular in New York, California, Pennsylvania, Georgia, and Texas. In the past 5 years the name Khalil has been trending up compared to the previous 5 years.
Popularity Over Time (National)
Top States for Khalil (2024)
| State | Births | Share |
|---|---|---|
| TX | 101 | |
| FL | 67 | |
| GA | 56 | |
| CA | 47 | |
| NC | 44 | |
| OH | 35 | |
| IL | 35 | |
| SC | 34 | |
| LA | 33 | |
| NY | 33 | |
| AL | 28 | |
| VA | 26 | |
| MI | 24 | |
| IN | 23 | |
| TN | 21 |
Popularity Over Time (National) — Table
| Year | Births |
|---|---|
| 1957 | 5 |
| 1960 | 7 |
| 1961 | 6 |
| 1962 | 6 |
| 1964 | 8 |
| 1965 | 7 |
| 1966 | 7 |
| 1967 | 8 |
| 1968 | 14 |
| 1969 | 6 |
| 1970 | 11 |
| 1971 | 17 |
| 1972 | 25 |
| 1973 | 12 |
| 1974 | 20 |
| 1975 | 35 |
| 1976 | 45 |
| 1977 | 56 |
| 1978 | 64 |
| 1979 | 78 |
| 1980 | 74 |
| 1981 | 68 |
| 1982 | 76 |
| 1983 | 69 |
| 1984 | 76 |
| 1985 | 80 |
| 1986 | 82 |
| 1987 | 78 |
| 1988 | 84 |
| 1989 | 114 |
| 1990 | 144 |
| 1991 | 154 |
| 1992 | 249 |
| 1993 | 287 |
| 1994 | 372 |
| 1995 | 1,118 |
| 1996 | 714 |
| 1997 | 577 |
| 1998 | 611 |
| 1999 | 700 |
| 2000 | 619 |
| 2001 | 626 |
| 2002 | 583 |
| 2003 | 546 |
| 2004 | 619 |
| 2005 | 566 |
| 2006 | 600 |
| 2007 | 556 |
| 2008 | 557 |
| 2009 | 553 |
| 2010 | 516 |
| 2011 | 580 |
| 2012 | 616 |
| 2013 | 602 |
| 2014 | 625 |
| 2015 | 624 |
| 2016 | 696 |
| 2017 | 732 |
| 2018 | 803 |
| 2019 | 1,127 |
| 2020 | 1,231 |
| 2021 | 1,146 |
| 2022 | 1,091 |
| 2023 | 982 |
| 2024 | 830 |