Iqra

Meaning & origin

Iqra entered U.S. baby name records in 1990 and has been on a consistent upward trajectory ever since, reflecting growing Muslim American communities and broader awareness of Islamic names. In 2025, it ranked 1467th nationally, with a 1-in-11,009 frequency, and reached its peak popularity that same year. The name is most common in Michigan, Minnesota, and New York, states with sizable Muslim populations. While still relatively uncommon, Iqra's steady rise suggests it is becoming a familiar choice among families seeking a meaningful Arabic name with direct Quranic resonance.

Iqra is the imperative form of the Arabic verb qara'a, meaning 'to recite' or 'to read.' It is the first word revealed to the Prophet Muhammad in the Quran (Surah Al-Alaq, verse 1), and the name is thus deeply associated with Islamic tradition. As a given name, it became common among Muslim families in South Asia, the Middle East, and diaspora communities, especially from the late 20th century onward.