Zahir
Zahir is a boy name of Arabic origin meaning “Shining, manifest”, pronounced zah-HEER. It ranked #738 in the United States in 2025, given to 356 babies, and peaked at #738 in 2025. Common nicknames: Zah, Hiri.
How popular is Zahir 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 Zahir mean, and where does it come from?
Zahir comes from an Arabic root meaning to be visible or to shine, and az-Zahir, the manifest, is one of the ninety-nine names of God. In Persian and Urdu it carries the same sense. Borges wrote a story about a coin called the Zahir that no one who sees it can forget. American records hold the name from 1973; it entered the top thousand in 2017 and reached its highest position in 2025, rising with Zayd, Zamir and the other Z names of Arabic origin.
How is Zahir used around the world?
Zahir is used in 1 languages worldwide.
TypeMale given name
Linguistic data: Wikidata (CC0). Variants and language usage may vary by region.
What are the nicknames for Zahir?
Famous People Named Zahir
- Zaheer Khan — Indian international cricketer
- Zahir Shah — the last King of Afghanistan
Similar Names to Zahir
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Sibling Name Ideas for Zahir
Looking for names that pair well with Zahir? Here are some sibling name suggestions that share a similar style and feel.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the name Zahir mean?
Zahir is a boy name of Arabic origin meaning "Shining, manifest." Zahir comes from an Arabic root meaning to be visible or to shine, and az-Zahir, the manifest, is one of the ninety-nine names of God. In Persian and Urdu it carries the same sense.
How do you pronounce Zahir?
Zahir is pronounced zah-HEER. Common variations include Zaheer, Dhahir, Zaheer.
Is Zahir a boy name?
Yes, Zahir is traditionally a boy name. Popular nicknames include Zah, Hiri.