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Khalil Boy

Popularity: #361 · Trend: ↗ Rising

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

Khalil Gibran is a poet and writer best known for The Prophet, Sand and Foam, and The Broken Wings.
Khalil Mack is a professional football player best known for playing as a linebacker for the Chicago Bears and Las Vegas Raiders.
Khalil Shakir is a professional football player best known for playing as a wide receiver for the Buffalo Bills.

Sibling suggestions

Similar names

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
13%
FL 67
9%
GA 56
7%
CA 47
6%
NC 44
6%
OH 35
5%
IL 35
5%
SC 34
4%
LA 33
4%
NY 33
4%
AL 28
4%
VA 26
3%
MI 24
3%
IN 23
3%
TN 21
3%

Popularity Over Time (National) — Table

YearBirths
19575
19607
19616
19626
19648
19657
19667
19678
196814
19696
197011
197117
197225
197312
197420
197535
197645
197756
197864
197978
198074
198168
198276
198369
198476
198580
198682
198778
198884
1989114
1990144
1991154
1992249
1993287
1994372
19951,118
1996714
1997577
1998611
1999700
2000619
2001626
2002583
2003546
2004619
2005566
2006600
2007556
2008557
2009553
2010516
2011580
2012616
2013602
2014625
2015624
2016696
2017732
2018803
20191,127
20201,231
20211,146
20221,091
2023982
2024830