Find out how popular the first name Raef has been for the last 33 years (from 1991 to 2023) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Raef by gender

Based on the last 33 years of data, Raef is exclusively a male name.

For the most recent data in 2023, there were 12 male babies and 0 female babies born with the name Raef.

The history of the first name Raef

The name Raef has its origins in the Arabic language and culture. It is believed to have derived from the Arabic root word "rafa'a," which means "to raise" or "to elevate." This name carries connotations of nobility, prestige, and elevated status.

In the early Islamic era, the name Raef was commonly used by Arab scholars, poets, and intellectuals. One of the earliest recorded instances of this name can be found in the writings of the renowned 9th-century Arabic poet and scholar, Abu Tammam. His full name was Habib ibn Aws al-Ta'i, but he was also known by the name Raef al-Dai.

During the medieval period, the name Raef gained popularity among Muslim rulers and nobles. One notable figure was Raef al-Dawlah, a 10th-century Hamdanid ruler who governed parts of modern-day Iraq and Syria. His full name was Abu Taghlib Raef al-Dawlah al-Hasan ibn Ahmad.

In the 12th century, the name Raef appeared in the works of the renowned Persian poet and philosopher, Rumi. One of Rumi's disciples was a man named Raef al-Din, who is mentioned in several of Rumi's writings.

Another historical figure with the name Raef was Raef al-Din al-Tahtawi, an Egyptian writer, scholar, and reformer who lived in the 19th century. He played a significant role in the modernization of Egypt and introduced many Western ideas and concepts to the country.

In more recent times, the name Raef has been carried by several notable individuals, including:

1. Raef Badawi, a Saudi Arabian writer and activist born in 1984, known for his advocacy of free speech and human rights.
2. Raef Haj Yahya, a Lebanese politician and former member of the Lebanese Parliament, born in 1952.
3. Raef Ismail, an Egyptian actor and filmmaker born in 1973, known for his work in both Arabic and American productions.
4. Raef Al-Yaziji, a Syrian poet and writer who lived in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, recognized for his contributions to modern Arabic literature.
5. Raef Zayed, a Palestinian-American businessman and entrepreneur born in 1967, who founded several successful tech companies in Silicon Valley.

While the name Raef has its roots in the Arabic language and Islamic culture, it has transcended linguistic and cultural boundaries, and individuals from various backgrounds have adopted and embraced this name throughout history.

Data source

The first name data used on this page comes from the Social Security Administration (SSA). They've been collecting data on baby names since 1880.

The history and meaning of the name Raef was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

If you have a correction or suggestion to improve the history of Raef, please contact us.

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