Rising since 1993, #2,056 for boys today.
Popularity of Safwan since 1983
Babies named Safwan per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1980s | 5 |
| 1990s | 43 |
| 2000s | 178 |
| 2010s | 390 |
| 2020s | 349 |
Meaning & origin
Safwan is an Arabic name of uncertain but likely literal meaning, possibly referring to a 'rock' or 'stone.' It first appeared in U.S. birth records in 1983 and has seen a steady increase in use since 1993, reaching its peak rank of 2056 in 2025. Among states, it is most popular in Minnesota, New York, and Illinois, reflecting concentrations of Muslim and Arab-American communities. The name offers a connection to early Islamic heritage without being overly common, making it a distinctive choice for families seeking a name with historical and cultural depth.
Safwan is generally understood as an Arabic name, possibly derived from the word ṣafwān meaning 'rock' or 'stone', symbolizing strength and steadfastness. It appears in early Islamic history, borne by several companions of the Prophet Muhammad. The name has remained in use across the Arab world and among Muslim communities, though it is not among the most common Arabic names in the United States.
Where Safwan is most popular
Births per 100,000 boys by state, 2025. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
“Safwan” around the world
Where Safwan lands in the latest official birth statistics abroad, matched to the U.S. spelling.
France
105
babies in 2024
Ireland
8
babies in 2025
Sources: INSEE (France) · CSO Ireland (Ireland).
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Saf, Safi
Variants: Safwaan, Safuan
Sibling names for Safwan
Names that share Safwan's style, for a brother or sister.
