Latif is a name of Arabic origin, derived from the root word 'latifa', which means 'gentle' or 'mild'. The name Latif is traditionally given to boys and has been used throughout history in various Islamic cultures.
The name Latif first gained prominence during the Middle Ages, when it was used by several prominent Muslim scholars and poets. One of the most notable figures with this name was Abu al-Muzaffar Muhammad ibn Ali al-Latif al-Baghdadi, who was a renowned physician and philosopher in the 12th century.
Throughout history, the name Latif has been associated with wisdom, learning, and kindness. It is often given to children in hopes that they will grow up to be intelligent, compassionate, and gentle individuals. Today, Latif remains a popular name among Muslim communities around the world, particularly in countries such as Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Indonesia.
In recent years, however, the name Latif has also gained popularity beyond Islamic cultures. It has been used by parents looking for unique and meaningful names for their children, regardless of religious affiliation or background. Despite its increasing usage outside of Muslim communities, the name Latif continues to hold deep cultural significance within many Islamic societies.
Overall, Latif is a beautiful and meaningful name with a rich history rooted in Arabic culture and tradition. Its association with gentleness and wisdom makes it an appealing choice for parents seeking a name that carries positive connotations and has stood the test of time.
The name Latif has seen a varied pattern of usage in the United States over the past five decades, with peaks and troughs in its popularity.
In the early 1970s, the name Latif was given to an average of about 7 babies per year. This number fluctuated throughout the decade, reaching a low of 5 births in 1974 and peaking at 11 births in 1976.
The 1980s began with a steady usage of the name, with around 6 to 8 births per year. However, there was a significant spike in 1990, with 19 babies named Latif born that year. This marked the start of a decade of increased popularity for the name.
The 1990s saw a consistent rise in the number of babies named Latif each year, reaching a peak of 26 births in 1991. This was followed by a slight dip, but the usage remained consistently higher than in previous decades.
The early 2000s saw another increase in popularity for the name Latif, with around 9 to 11 babies named each year between 2000 and 2004. However, this was followed by a decline, with only 6 births per year on average from 2005 to 2008.
Since then, the usage of the name Latif has fluctuated but remained relatively stable, with an average of about 7 to 11 births per year between 2009 and 2021. The most recent data shows that 12 babies were named Latif in 2021.
Overall, while the popularity of the name Latif has varied over time, it has consistently been given to a significant number of babies each year in the United States since the 1970s. With a total of 411 births recorded since 1971, Latif remains a recognizable and enduring name choice for parents in the US.