Tariq Boy
Name Meaning & Origin Pronunciation: TAH-reek //tɑːˈriːk//
Origin: Arabic
Meaning: morning star; he who arrives at night
Historical & Cultural Background
The name Tariq has its roots in the Arabic language, derived from the verb 'ṭarq', which means 'to knock' or 'to strike'. The name itself translates to 'morning star' or 'he who knocks at the door', symbolizing a new beginning or the arrival of light.
The earliest forms of the name can be traced back to the 7th century, during the time of the early Islamic conquests, where it was used as a given name among Arabic-speaking populations. The name entered various languages through the spread of Islamic culture and the Arabic language, influencing regions such as North Africa and the Iberian Peninsula.
Historically, one of the most notable figures bearing the name was Tariq ibn Ziyad, a Berber general who led the Muslim conquest of Hispania in 711 CE. His crossing of the Strait of Gibraltar marked a significant moment in history, as it initiated centuries of Muslim rule in parts of Spain.
The name Tariq became associated with leadership and military prowess due to this historical figure, further embedding it in the cultural memory of the regions influenced by Islamic expansion. Culturally, the name Tariq has resonated within Islamic tradition, often symbolizing guidance and enlightenment.
It appears in various literary and religious texts, including poetry and historical accounts, where it is used to evoke themes of hope and new beginnings. The name has also been adopted in various forms across different cultures, with diminutives and variations appearing in regions influenced by Arabic culture.
This enduring legacy reflects the name's significance in both historical and cultural contexts, ensuring its continued recognition and use.
Famous people named Tariq
Tariq Nasheed is a filmmaker and author best known for Hidden Colors, 1804: The Hidden History of Haiti, and Buck Breaking.
Tariq Ali is a writer and political activist best known for his books on history and politics, including The Clash of Fundamentalisms and The Obama Syndrome.
Fictional characters named Tariq
Tariq is a fictional character from the video game series Assassin's Creed. He is a member of the Assassin Brotherhood who plays a significant role in the narrative.
Sibling suggestions
Similar names
U.S. Historical Usage
The name Tariq was first seen in the United States in 1963.
Tariq has ranked as high as #788 nationally, which occurred in 1998, and has been most popular in New York, California, Pennsylvania, Florida, and Georgia.
In the past 5 years the name Tariq has been trending up compared to the previous 5 years.
Popularity Over Time (National)
Top States for Tariq (2024)
| State | Births | Share |
|---|---|---|
| IL | 13 | |
| FL | 12 | |
| NC | 9 | |
| NY | 9 | |
| GA | 8 | |
| MI | 8 | |
| CA | 8 | |
| OH | 7 | |
| PA | 5 | |
| TX | 5 |
Popularity Over Time (National) — Table
| Year | Births |
|---|---|
| 1963 | 5 |
| 1967 | 5 |
| 1969 | 7 |
| 1970 | 15 |
| 1971 | 20 |
| 1972 | 21 |
| 1973 | 15 |
| 1974 | 21 |
| 1975 | 21 |
| 1976 | 41 |
| 1977 | 53 |
| 1978 | 59 |
| 1979 | 71 |
| 1980 | 51 |
| 1981 | 78 |
| 1982 | 61 |
| 1983 | 59 |
| 1984 | 56 |
| 1985 | 65 |
| 1986 | 53 |
| 1987 | 63 |
| 1988 | 54 |
| 1989 | 87 |
| 1990 | 96 |
| 1991 | 130 |
| 1992 | 132 |
| 1993 | 140 |
| 1994 | 138 |
| 1995 | 137 |
| 1996 | 180 |
| 1997 | 213 |
| 1998 | 514 |
| 1999 | 335 |
| 2000 | 281 |
| 2001 | 261 |
| 2002 | 236 |
| 2003 | 225 |
| 2004 | 201 |
| 2005 | 172 |
| 2006 | 174 |
| 2007 | 145 |
| 2008 | 117 |
| 2009 | 115 |
| 2010 | 111 |
| 2011 | 107 |
| 2012 | 115 |
| 2013 | 109 |
| 2014 | 92 |
| 2015 | 94 |
| 2016 | 125 |
| 2017 | 141 |
| 2018 | 148 |
| 2019 | 119 |
| 2020 | 135 |
| 2021 | 135 |
| 2022 | 138 |
| 2023 | 146 |
| 2024 | 133 |