Malik
Malik is a boy name of Arabic origin meaning “King, master”, pronounced mah-LEEK. It ranked #437 in the United States in 2025, given to 724 babies, and peaked at #97 in 1996. Common nicknames: Mal.
How popular is Malik in the United States?
Data: U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA). Based on all Social Security card applications for births in the United States.
What does Malik mean, and where does it come from?
Malik is an Arabic name meaning "king" or "master," derived from the root relating to sovereignty and ownership. It is one of the ninety-nine names of Allah in Islamic tradition, Al-Malik, "The King" or "The Sovereign," giving the name deep religious resonance across the Muslim world. Malik has also been used historically as a title for rulers throughout the Middle East, North Africa, and South Asia. In the West, the name has been embraced widely within African American communities since the mid-20th century as part of a broader movement toward names reflecting African and Islamic heritage.
How is Malik used around the world?
Malik is used in 1 languages worldwide, with 2+ international variants.
Female FormMalika
Linguistic data: Wikidata (CC0). Variants and language usage may vary by region.
What are the nicknames for Malik?
Famous People Named Malik
- Malik Monk — American professional basketball player
- Zayn Malik — English singer, former member of One Direction
- Malik Yoba — American actor
Similar Names to Malik
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Sibling Name Ideas for Malik
Looking for names that pair well with Malik? Here are some sibling name suggestions that share a similar style and feel.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the name Malik mean?
Malik is a boy name of Arabic origin meaning "King, master." Malik is an Arabic name meaning "king" or "master," derived from the root relating to sovereignty and ownership. It is one of the ninety-nine names of Allah in Islamic tradition, Al-Malik, "The King" or "The Sovereign," giving the name deep religious resonance across the Muslim world.
How do you pronounce Malik?
Malik is pronounced mah-LEEK. Common variations include Maalik, Malick, Melik.
Is Malik a boy name?
Yes, Malik is traditionally a boy name. Popular nicknames include Mal.