عارف

Arif

boyArabicMuslim

Arif is a Muslim boy name of Arabic origin, meaning “Knowing, wise, learned”.

MeaningKnowing, wise, learned
GenderBoy
OriginArabic
Written asعارف
PronunciationAH-rif
TraditionMuslim
Used inPakistan, India, Turkey, Iran

Meaning and origin of Arif

Arif is the Arabic ʿĀrif, 'one who knows', from a root meaning to know or to recognise. Sufis speak of the ʿārif bi-llāh, someone whose knowledge of God comes through devotion and lived experience, so the name hints at spiritual wisdom as well as ordinary learning. It is found right across the Muslim world, written Arif in South Asia and Turkey and Aref in Iran.

Is Arif a Muslim name?

Arif is an Arabic Muslim name meaning wise and knowing. It is not in the Quran, but its root appears in 'so that you may know one another (litaʿārafū)' (Quran 49:13).

How popular is Arif?

Arif is common in South Asia, Turkey, Iran and the Arab world.

Gifts with the name Arif

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Spellings and variants of Arif

ArefAriefAarifAreef

Names similar to Arif

More Muslim boy names

Frequently asked questions

What does the name Arif mean?

Arif means 'Knowing, wise, learned'. It is of Arabic origin.

Is Arif a Muslim name?

Arif is an Arabic Muslim name meaning wise and knowing. It is not in the Quran, but its root appears in 'so that you may know one another (litaʿārafū)' (Quran 49:13).

How do you pronounce Arif?

Arif is pronounced AH-rif.

Is Arif a boy or girl name?

Arif is usually a boy name.

Updated October 2026. Spotted a mistake? Tell us.