Imran

Meaning & origin

Imran is a name with deep roots in Islamic tradition, drawn from the Qur'anic figure 'Imran, the father of Mary. The name has been consistently used in Muslim communities worldwide, with its presence in the United States growing steadily since the late 1990s. According to Social Security data, Imran first appeared in U.S. records in 1970 and has seen a notable rise in popularity, reaching its peak rank of 969 in 2023. In recent years, the name has been most common in Minnesota, Maryland, and New York, reflecting its use among diverse immigrant populations. The trajectory indicates a rising trend since 1999, with a current one-in-7,207 rate for newborn boys in 2025. While the etymology is somewhat debated, the name's strong cultural and religious associations make it a meaningful choice for families.

Imran is an Arabic name, directly taken from the Qur'anic figure 'Imran, the father of Maryam (Mary). It is related to the root 'amr (life) and shares a connection with the Hebrew name Amram. The name has been used across the Muslim world for centuries, particularly in South Asia and the Middle East. Its popularity in English-speaking countries grew with immigration in the late 20th century.