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Kareem
Pronounced kah-REEM /kəˈriːm/High
Meaning: From Arabic karīm (كريم), meaning 'generous,' 'noble,' or 'honorable'; also one of the 99 names of Allah in Islam as Al-Karīm, meaning 'The Most Generous'High
Popularity in the U.S. · SSA data
U.S. births per year (Social Security Administration, 1880–present). Pink marker = peak year.
History & Origin
Kareem derives from the Arabic root k-r-m (ك-ر-م), which encompasses concepts of generosity, nobility, and honor. The name is widely used across the Arabic-speaking world and among Muslim communities globally. It has long been a respected traditional name in Islamic culture.
In the United States, Kareem became widely recognized through basketball star Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, born Lew Alcindor, who converted to Islam and adopted the name in 1971. His prominence brought the name into mainstream American consciousness, and it has been used steadily in African American and Muslim American communities since.
Variations
Nicknames
Famous Bearers
- ★Kareem Abdul-Jabbar (1947–present)American basketball legend and longtime NBA all-time scoring leader.
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Frequently Asked
What does the name Kareem mean?
Kareem means 'generous,' 'noble,' and 'honorable' in Arabic. Al-Karīm is also one of the 99 names of Allah, meaning 'The Most Generous.'
How do you pronounce Kareem?
Kareem is pronounced kah-REEM /kəˈriːm/ — two syllables with stress on the second.
Is Kareem an Islamic name?
Yes, Kareem is a classic Islamic Arabic name and one of the divine attributes of Allah. It is widely used among Muslim families worldwide.
What is the difference between Kareem and Karim?
Kareem and Karim are alternate spellings of the same Arabic name. Kareem is more common in English-speaking countries; Karim is more common in French-influenced regions.