5 of 18

Write now Article Tools

The name Muhammad literally means "praiseworthy" and is derived from the Arabic root word "hamid" or to praise. It is primarily a male first name and may also be used as a familial surname. Perhaps the most famous individual to bear this name was the prophet, "Muhammad", who founded the Islamic religion in the seventh century. Rarely used prior to the advent of Islam, the name "Muhammad" quickly gained popularity as the doctrine spread throughout the Middle East, Asia and certain parts of Europe.

Other well known bearers of the name include Muhammad ibn Abu Bhakr, companion of the prophet, Muhammad Ibn Musa al Khwarizmi, the inventor of algebra and Muhammad Ali Pasha, considered the founder of modern Egypt. In addition, following the expansion of the Islamic empire, numerous rulers and sultans of the Ottoman and Persian empires have shared this name. Several influential figures in recent American history have also adopted this name, including Elijah Muhammad (founder of the Nation of Islam) and Muhammad Ali, three-time world heavy weight champion.

Today, "Muhammad" is quickly gaining popularity in the United States and UK. According to the UK times, "Muhammad" is the second most popular baby name in Britain. According to the article, Muslim families choose this name to demonstrate a connection to their faith and respect for the central figure of Islam. Given, the rising birth rates of Muslim families, "Muhammad" may even corner the number one spot in the list of most popular baby names in the UK in the near future.

According to the United States Social Security Administration, the first name "Muhammad" takes 639th spot in the list baby names. Overall, the actual surname "Muhammad", is amongst the most common names born my Muslim families throughout the world. According to tradition in various Muslim countries, Muhammad may also be given as prefix to a boy's name, although the child may be called by another designation.

Depending on the region of the world, the name Muhammad may be spelled in different ways. In the Arabic speaking world, "Muhammed", "Muhammad" and "Mohamed" are the most common variation. Turkish versions include "Mehmet" and "Mehmed". "Mehmed" is also a common spelling amongst Albanian Muslims and other parts of Eastern Europe where Islam has spread. Other less common variations include "Magomed" (Russian), "Maxomed" (Somalian) and "Mahoma" (Spanish). However, amongst all of the versions, the spelling "Muhammad" is the literal transliteration of the Arabic characters which make up the name and the most correct.

Learn more about this author, Andrea Pellettiere.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.

Add your voice

Know something about Muhammad: The most common name in the world?
We want to hear your view. Write now!