Declining since 1990, #1,708 for boys today.
Popularity of Rashad since 1973
Babies named Rashad per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1970s | 1,319 |
| 1980s | 3,774 |
| 1990s | 4,693 |
| 2000s | 3,276 |
| 2010s | 2,471 |
| 2020s | 714 |
Meaning & origin
Rashad, a name of Arabic origin meaning right guidance or good judgment, first appeared in U.S. birth records in 1973. Its peak year came in 1989, when it was most frequently chosen by American parents. Since then, its popularity has been falling, particularly after 1990, and as of 2025 it ranks 1708, with a 1-in-17980 incidence among newborn boys. The name has been notably concentrated in states with significant African American populations, such as Louisiana, Georgia, and Florida. Its trajectory mirrors that of other Arabic-derived names that saw a surge in the late 20th century and are now less common, though it remains a recognizable and culturally resonant choice.
Rashad derives from the Arabic root r-sh-d, which conveys the idea of right guidance, integrity, and good judgment. The name is directly related to the Quranic concept of rushd (رشد), meaning maturity of intellect or moral rectitude. It has been used throughout the Arabic-speaking world and among Muslim communities globally for centuries, often reflecting a hope that the bearer will possess wisdom and sound character.
Where Rashad is most popular
Births per 100,000 boys by state. Press play or drag the slider to watch it move across the decades. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
“Rashad” around the world
Where Rashad lands in the latest official birth statistics abroad, matched to the U.S. spelling.
France
5
babies in 2024
Sources: INSEE (France).
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Rash
Sibling names for Rashad
Names that share Rashad's style, for a brother or sister.
Sisters: Aisha, Jamila, Layla, Nadia, Zainab, Shakera, Takiyah, Towanda, Falisha, Lamisha, Lashante, Rashae, Rasheena, Shamaine, Sharece, Tunisha, Rashada, Rodnesha, Saleemah, Shadawn
Brothers: Jamal, Khalil, Malik, Tariq, Yusuf, Jamel, Jamell, Rahsaan, Romell, Jervon, Rashan, Saadiq, Shamel, Shyheim, Cleavon, Jammal, Rayshad, Lamone, Reshad, Tywone
Names like Rashad
Names whose popularity has moved with Rashad's over the last 50 years.
