Misk

Meaning & origin

Misk is a modern Arabic name that has been gaining attention in the United States since it first appeared on the Social Security list in 2010. In 2025 it ranked 1758, with approximately 1 in 14,000 newborn girls given the name. Its peak popularity occurred in 2025, reflecting a rising trajectory that has continued steadily since its debut. The name is most common in states such as Michigan, Virginia, and Illinois. Misk carries the elegant meaning of musk, a prized fragrance, though the direct sensory association may not appeal to every parent. Its origins are unequivocally Arabic, though the name's recent emergence in U.S. data suggests it may be crossing cultural boundaries. While the name is still relatively rare, its upward trend hints at growing appeal among families seeking distinctive, meaningful names with a global flavor.

Misk derives directly from the Arabic word مسك (misk), meaning musk. The name has been used in Arabic-speaking cultures as a feminine given name, evoking the precious and pleasant scent. It entered English usage perhaps via the Arabic name component or through modern naming trends.