Zahir
zuh-HIHR
Zahir comes from the Arabic ظاهر (zāhir), meaning “shining,” “radiant,” or “apparent.” In Islamic theology, Al-Zahir is one of the 99 names of God, denoting the Manifest.
The Fatimid caliph Al-Zahir ruled Egypt in the 11th century. Jorge Luis Borges wrote a short story called The Zahir, exploring the concept of an object impossible to forget.
Zahir peaked at No. 754 in 2023 with 346 births. In 2024 it ranks No. 755 with 339 births, essentially holding steady at its all-time high.
What the name Zahir means
Footballer Zahir Belounis and various academics have carried the name in public life. Its growth reflects the broader adoption of Arabic names in the US.
Two syllables—zah-HEER—sound warm and luminous. The voiced fricative and long vowel create a name that feels open, confident, and full of light.
Muslim families in the US value Zahir for its Quranic resonance and accessible pronunciation. English speakers find it intuitive to say and spell.
The name’s connection to one of God’s 99 names gives it devotional weight. Parents choosing Zahir embed a prayer for radiance in their child’s identity.
US popularity over time
Numerology and symbolism
Based on Pythagorean numerology — a traditional system linking name letters to numbers. Presented for cultural interest.
Zahir - similar names
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