شمس

Shams

unisexArabicMuslim

Shams is a Muslim unisex name of Arabic origin, meaning “The sun”.

MeaningThe sun
GenderUnisex
OriginArabic
Written asشمس
PronunciationSHAMS
TraditionMuslim
Used inEgypt, Levant, Iran, Pakistan

Meaning and origin of Shams

Shams is nothing more or less than the Arabic word for the sun, from the root sh-m-s. Readers of Sufi poetry meet it in Shams-i Tabrizi, the spiritual friend who so transformed Rumi. The word also sits inside longer names, Shamsuddin, 'sun of the faith', being the best known. Arabic treats shams as a feminine noun, so Egyptian and Levantine parents now give it to daughters while it remains a boy's name too.

Is Shams a Muslim name?

The sun has an entire surah of the Quran to itself, beginning 'By the sun and its brightness' (Quran 91:1), which gives Shams a natural place among Muslim names.

How popular is Shams?

Shams is used across the Muslim world, and for girls particularly in Egypt and the Levant.

Gifts with the name Shams

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Spellings and variants of Shams

ShamsaŞemsChams

Names similar to Shams

More Muslim unisex names

Frequently asked questions

What does the name Shams mean?

Shams means 'The sun'. It is of Arabic origin.

Is Shams a Muslim name?

The sun has an entire surah of the Quran to itself, beginning 'By the sun and its brightness' (Quran 91:1), which gives Shams a natural place among Muslim names.

How do you pronounce Shams?

Shams is pronounced SHAMS.

Is Shams a boy or girl name?

Shams is used for both boys and girls.

Updated October 2026. Spotted a mistake? Tell us.