Shareef

Shareef is a masculine name of Arabic origin meaning 'noble,' 'honored,' or 'distinguished.' It derives from the Arabic word 'sharīf,' which refers to someone of high status or noble lineage. In Islamic tradition, the title Sharif has historically been used for descendants of the Prophet Muhammad. The name is used in various Muslim communities worldwide, with spelling variations including Sharif, Sherif, and Shareef. In the United States, the name gained some recognition through basketball player Shareef Abdur-Rahim. Shareef carries connotations of dignity, honor, and moral integrity. It represents noble character and ethical behavior, making it a name with strong positive associations. While not among the most common names in Western countries, Shareef is appreciated for its meaningful origin and cross-cultural appeal.

Pronounced sha-REEF.

As of October 2026, Shareef ranked #8806 in US births in 2025 SSA, peaked at #1588 in 1980.