Ayyub

Meaning & origin

Ayyub is an Arabic name with deep religious resonance, appearing in the Quran as the patient prophet who endured severe affliction. In the United States, it has been recorded since 1993, reflecting the growth of Muslim communities and an appreciation for names with prophetic heritage. As of 2025, it ranks 2,798 nationally, with a 1-in-38,000 frequency, and has been steadily rising since 1999. Its peak year so far was 2024, suggesting increasing but still moderate usage. The name is most common in Michigan, Pennsylvania, and New York, states with significant Arab-American populations. Ayyub's trajectory points to a continued slow rise as families seek authentic, meaningful names from Islamic tradition. While rare nationwide, it carries a strong identity distinct from its English equivalent Job, and its clarity in spelling and pronunciation makes it accessible across cultures.

Ayyub is the Arabic form of the Hebrew name Iyyov (Job), meaning 'persecuted' or 'one who returns to God.' In the Quran, Ayyub is a prophet known for his patience and unwavering faith during severe trials. The name has been borne across the Arabic-speaking and Muslim world for centuries, particularly among families who honor the prophets.