Nafis Boy
Name Meaning & Origin Pronunciation: NAH-fis /nɑːˈfɪs/
Origin: Arabic; Urdu
Meaning: Arabic: competent; able; Urdu: skilled
Historical & Cultural Background
The name Nafis has its roots in Arabic, derived from the word "nafis," which means "precious," "valuable," or "rare." This etymological origin reflects a positive connotation, often associated with qualities such as excellence and worth. The name entered various cultures through the spread of Islamic civilization, particularly during the medieval period, as Arabic became a significant language of scholarship and culture across the Middle East and into parts of Asia and Africa.
The transition into other languages and cultures often retained the original meaning, emphasizing the value placed on the name. Historically, the name Nafis has been borne by notable figures in Islamic history, including scholars and poets, who contributed to the rich tapestry of Arabic literature and thought.
The 9th century saw the flourishing of Arabic poetry and prose, where names like Nafis were celebrated in literary works. Additionally, the name appears in various historical texts and documents, signifying its use among educated classes and its association with intellectual pursuits.
The name's presence in Islamic culture can also be linked to the reverence for names that denote positive attributes, which is a common practice in many cultures. Culturally, Nafis resonates with themes of honor and respect, often being chosen for its auspicious meaning.
In Islamic tradition, names are considered to carry significant weight, and Nafis, with its implications of rarity and value, aligns with the cultural emphasis on selecting names that reflect desirable traits. The name is sometimes used in conjunction with other names or titles, enhancing its significance.
Overall, Nafis encapsulates a rich linguistic and cultural heritage that has endured through centuries, reflecting the values and aspirations of those who bear it.
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U.S. Historical Usage
The name Nafis was first seen in the United States in 1976. Nafis has ranked as high as #1213 nationally, which occurred in 1992, and has been most popular in Pennsylvania. In the past 5 years the name Nafis has been trending down compared to the previous 5 years.
Popularity Over Time (National)
Top States for Nafis (2016)
| State | Births | Share |
|---|---|---|
| PA | 7 |
Popularity Over Time (National) — Table
| Year | Births |
|---|---|
| 1976 | 10 |
| 1977 | 14 |
| 1978 | 11 |
| 1979 | 12 |
| 1980 | 9 |
| 1981 | 12 |
| 1982 | 8 |
| 1983 | 11 |
| 1984 | 8 |
| 1985 | 11 |
| 1986 | 11 |
| 1987 | 9 |
| 1988 | 14 |
| 1989 | 9 |
| 1991 | 9 |
| 1992 | 28 |
| 1993 | 17 |
| 1994 | 17 |
| 1995 | 11 |
| 1996 | 16 |
| 1997 | 18 |
| 1998 | 21 |
| 1999 | 12 |
| 2000 | 25 |
| 2001 | 20 |
| 2002 | 17 |
| 2003 | 21 |
| 2004 | 13 |
| 2005 | 11 |
| 2006 | 23 |
| 2007 | 12 |
| 2008 | 10 |
| 2009 | 9 |
| 2010 | 8 |
| 2011 | 8 |
| 2012 | 5 |
| 2013 | 6 |
| 2014 | 6 |
| 2015 | 11 |
| 2016 | 12 |
| 2017 | 6 |
| 2019 | 7 |
| 2020 | 5 |
| 2022 | 5 |