Karim
كَرِيمKarim is a boy name of Arabic origin.
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Meaning of Karim
"Generous, noble, precious." Al-Karīm is one of the 99 Names of Allah. One of the most beloved virtue-names across the Muslim world.
Arabic root: k-r-m — (ك-ر-م, generosity, nobility)
Regional variants
"Kareem" is the more common US spelling, popularized by basketball legend Kareem Abdul-Jabbar. Works effortlessly on a US school or work roster.
Popularity of Karim
6,383 U.S. births recorded from 1957–2023.
Divine attribute
Karīm
Karīm means generous, noble, honorable. Al-Karīm is a Name of Allah describing His boundless generosity — giving before being asked, forgiving before being petitioned.
From the Qur’an
"‘…And whoever is grateful, his gratitude is only for [the benefit of] himself. And whoever is ungrateful, then indeed, my Lord is Free of need and Generous.’"
"O mankind, what has deceived you concerning your Lord, the Generous?"
Sometimes used as a standalone name; also seen in compound names like ʿAbd al-Karīm (servant of the Generous).
Variants & nicknames
Related guide
Arabic Names That Work in English Without Explanation
25 Arabic names that American teachers, doctors, and neighbors pronounce correctly on the first try. For families who want heritage without the daily spelling bee.
Read the full guide →1234567891 (fluid)
Famous people named Karim
- Kareem Abdul-Jabbar (NBA legend)
- Karim Benzema (footballer)
Similar names
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About this page
Popularity counts come from the U.S. Social Security Administration's national dataset. Meaning and cultural context drawn from classical sources: Lisan al-Arab, Tafsir Ibn Kathir, Qur'an and Sunnah. If you spot an error, please let us know.