Khalif
Khalif is a Muslim boy name of Arabic, Somali / East African usage origin, meaning “Successor, deputy”.
| Meaning | Successor, deputy |
|---|---|
| Gender | Boy |
| Origin | Arabic, Somali / East African usage |
| Written as | خليف |
| Pronunciation | kha-LEEF |
| Tradition | Muslim |
| Used in | Somalia, Kenya, Tanzania, Gulf States |
Meaning and origin of Khalif
Khalif is a short name tied to khalīfa, successor or deputy, from the root kh-l-f, to follow after. Khalīfa was the title held by the caliphs, the leaders of the Muslim community in the period following the Prophet ﷺ. Somalis are particularly fond of it as a first name, writing it Khalif or Khaliif. It also appears in Kenya and Tanzania, while the Gulf prefers the fuller Khalifa.
Is Khalif a Muslim name?
Its root appears when God tells the angels, 'I will place a successive authority (khalīfa) on earth' (Quran 2:30).
How popular is Khalif?
It is most common among Somalis and along the East African coast, with Khalifa as the Gulf form.
Gifts with the name Khalif
- Khalif name necklaces & bracelets (Amazon)
- Personalised Khalif baby gifts (Amazon)
- Muslim baby gifts & books (Amazon)
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Spellings and variants of Khalif
Names similar to Khalif
More Muslim boy names
Frequently asked questions
What does the name Khalif mean?
Khalif means 'Successor, deputy'. It is of Arabic, Somali / East African usage origin.
Is Khalif a Muslim name?
Its root appears when God tells the angels, 'I will place a successive authority (khalīfa) on earth' (Quran 2:30).
How do you pronounce Khalif?
Khalif is pronounced kha-LEEF.
Is Khalif a boy or girl name?
Khalif is usually a boy name.