Holding steady, #7,194 for boys today.
Popularity of Arad since 2003
Babies named Arad per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 2000s | 26 |
| 2010s | 92 |
| 2020s | 45 |
Meaning & origin
Arad is a rare name with layered origins, used in Israel and Iran with distinct meanings. In the United States, it has been recorded since 2003, ranking 7,194 in 2025. Its peak year was 2017, suggesting a modest uptick perhaps linked to wider awareness of Hebrew names. The name has remained stable in usage, with no strong trajectory up or down. California is the top state for Arad, likely reflecting the state's diverse naming trends. While Arad is uncommon, its cross-cultural resonance and concise sound give it a quiet appeal for parents seeking a name with historical roots. The name's dual heritage (Hebrew and Persian) offers depth, though its rarity means it may often be explained or spelled out.
Arad has two distinct origins. In Hebrew, it is a place name from the biblical city of Arad (Numbers 21:1, Joshua 12:14), possibly derived from a root meaning 'wild ass' (arad). In Persian, Arad can mean 'cloud' or be related to 'bronze' (ārad), used as a given name in Iran. The Hebrew and Persian sources are independent but share the same spelling in Latin script.
Where Arad is most popular
Births per 100,000 boys by state, 2025. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Sibling names for Arad
Names that share Arad's style, for a brother or sister.
