Names hold deep cultural, linguistic, and personal significance, connecting individuals to their heritage, traditions, and identity.
Across centuries and continents, names have been passed down through generations, serving as markers of faith, history, and family ties.
Some names hold religious importance, originating from sacred texts or associated with revered figures, while others reflect cultural ideals, like beauty, strength, or grace.
In an increasingly interconnected world, certain names have transcended their regions of origin to become universally recognized and embraced.
Whether influenced by migration, global media, or shared traditions, these names have become a part of human history, connecting millions of people across diverse cultures.
Here, we explore the most common male and female names worldwide, uncovering their meanings, origins, and cultural significance.
12. Hassan (Male)
Origin: Arabic
Meaning: “Handsome” or “Good”
Significance: Hassan is a revered name in the Islamic world, often linked to Hassan ibn Ali, the grandson of the Prophet Muhammad.
Statistics: Hassan is a common name across the Middle East and Africa, with an estimated 18 million bearers.
11. Emily (Female)
Origin: Latin
Meaning: “Rival” or “Industrious”
Significance: Emily has long been a favorite name in English-speaking countries. It carries elegance and charm, making it a popular choice for generations.
Statistics: Emily remains common, with over 18 million women worldwide sharing the name.
10. David (Male)
Origin: Hebrew
Meaning: “Beloved”
Significance: David is one of the most well-known biblical names, stemming from King David of Israel. It remains popular in Jewish, Christian, and secular cultures worldwide.
Statistics: More than 20 million people globally are named David.
9. Elizabeth (Female)
Origin: Hebrew
Meaning: “My God is an Oath” or “God is Satisfaction”
Significance: Elizabeth is a royal and biblical name, shared by queens, saints, and notable figures. Variations like Isabel, Eliza, and Liza are also popular worldwide.
Statistics: Over 20 million women bear the name Elizabeth or its variants.
8. Wei (Male/Female)
Origin: Chinese
Meaning: “Greatness” or “Powerful”
Significance: Wei is one of the most common unisex names in China, often used as part of longer names. Its meaning reflects positivity and strength, resonating with Chinese cultural values.
Statistics: Wei is shared by over 20 million people, particularly in China and among the Chinese diaspora.
7. Ahmed (Male)
Origin: Arabic
Meaning: “Highly Praised”
Significance: Ahmed, a variation of Muhammad, is another widely-used name in the Islamic world. It carries strong religious and cultural associations.
Statistics: Over 25 million men are named Ahmed globally.
6. Anna (Female)
Origin: Hebrew/Greek
Meaning: “Grace” or “Favor”
Significance: Anna, derived from the Hebrew name “Hannah,” is a globally beloved name, especially in Europe and Latin America. It is simple, elegant, and timeless.
Statistics: Anna remains extremely popular, with approximately 25 million women worldwide named Anna or its variations (e.g., Ann, Ana).
5. Fatima (Female)
Origin: Arabic
Meaning: “One Who Abstains” or “Captivating”
Significance: Fatima is a revered name in Islamic culture, as Fatima was the daughter of the Prophet Muhammad. It is widely used across the Middle East, North Africa, and Muslim communities globally.
Statistics: Fatima remains popular, with an estimated 35 million women carrying the name.
4. John (Male)
Origin: Hebrew/English
Meaning: “God is Gracious”
Significance: John has been a prominent name in Christianity, linked to figures like John the Baptist and John the Apostle. It is also a staple in English-speaking countries and Europe.
Statistics: Over 30 million people worldwide bear the name John or its variations, such as Juan, Giovanni, or Jean.
3. James (Male)
Origin: Hebrew/English
Meaning: “Supplanter” or “One Who Follows”
Significance: James has been a staple name in English-speaking countries for centuries. It traces back to the Hebrew name “Yaakov” (Jacob) and has biblical connections.
Statistics: James consistently ranks among the top male names in the U.S. and the UK, with an estimated 30 million bearers worldwide.
2. Maria (Female)
Origin: Hebrew/Latin
Meaning: “Bitter” or “Beloved”
Significance: Maria is a timeless name popular across Latin America, Europe, and many Christian communities. Its roots come from “Miriam,” the mother of Jesus Christ, making it deeply significant in Christianity.
Statistics: Maria remains the most common female name globally, with over 60 million bearers.
1. Muhammad (Male)
Origin: Arabic
Meaning: “Praiseworthy” or “Worthy of Praise”
Significance: Muhammad is the most popular male name in the world, largely due to its association with the Prophet Muhammad, the founder of Islam. It is frequently used across Muslim-majority countries and often paired with other names (e.g., Muhammad Ali, Muhammad Yusuf).
Statistics: It is estimated that over 150 million people worldwide are named Muhammad or a variation of it.