Rehan

♂ Boy

Pronounced reh-HAHN /rɛˈhɑːn/High

Meaning: Sweet basil; fragrant herb, something beloved and pleasingHigh

In 30 seconds: An Arabic and Persian name meaning 'sweet basil' — the fragrant herb — evoking natural beauty, divine favor, and pleasant character. Widely used across South Asia and the Arab world.

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Origin HighArabic, Persian

MeaningSweet basil; fragrant herb, something beloved and pleasing

U.S. rank (2024)#3195 ↘ Falling

2024 U.S. births38 boys (0.00% of U.S. boys)

Peak year2008

Total births (all-time)≈ 1,421

Popularity in the U.S. · SSA data

U.S. births per year (Social Security Administration, 1880–present). Pink marker = peak year.

History & Origin

Rehan derives from the Arabic word rayhan, denoting sweet basil or any sweet-smelling herb. In classical Arabic poetry the term was used metaphorically to describe something or someone beloved and beautiful. The root carries the sense of divine favor and pleasant nature.

The name spread through Persian and Urdu-speaking communities across South Asia, becoming popular in Pakistan, India, and Bangladesh, as well as among Muslim communities in the Arab world and diaspora. In modern usage Rehan is appreciated for its soft sound and spiritually resonant meaning.

Did you know? In Islamic tradition, rehan (sweet basil) is mentioned as one of the fragrant plants of paradise, giving the name a spiritual and heavenly association beyond its botanical meaning.

Overall data confidence 88%

Behind the Name — Rayhan — Arabic etymology and South Asian usageIslamic name dictionaries — spiritual meaning of rayhan

Variations

RayhanRaihanReihanReyhan

Nicknames

ReyHan

Famous Bearers

★Rehan Sheikh (1969–present)
Pakistani film and television actor, director and writer, nominated for Best Actor at the Lux Style Awards for the drama 'Inkaar' (2019).

If you like Rehan…

Rayhan— direct variant spelling of Rehan

Rohan— similar two-syllable South Asian name with a flowing feel

Reza

Rahim

Rayan— Arabic-origin boys' name with comparable sound and rhythm

Frequently Asked

What does the name Rehan mean?

Rehan means 'sweet basil' or a fragrant herb in Arabic, and is associated with paradise in Islamic tradition.

How do you pronounce Rehan?

Rehan is pronounced reh-HAHN /rɛˈhɑːn/ — two syllables with stress on the second.

Is Rehan a boy or girl name?

Rehan is primarily used as a boy's name across Arabic, Persian, and South Asian communities.

How popular is Rehan?

Rehan is common in Pakistan, India, and among Muslim communities worldwide, though relatively uncommon in mainstream U.S. rankings.