MallowbyNames

Sufyan

soo-FYAHN · One who moves swiftly; of debated derivation, possibly from the Arabic root 's-f-y' meaning to be nimble or fast.

2025 rank (boys)
#2,230
Babies named in 2025
63
Peak popularity
2025
2025 frequency
1 in 27,112 boys
Usually for
Boys
Trend
Rising since 1994

Rising since 1994, #2,230 for boys today.

Popularity of Sufyan since 1987

Babies named Sufyan per year in U.S. Social Security records.

2142631990200020102020Most births 2025Boys
Data table (by decade)
DecadeBoys
1980s6
1990s37
2000s138
2010s251
2020s214

Meaning & origin

Sufyan is a name of Arabic origin, typically meaning 'swift' or 'nimble', derived from the root s-f-y. It has been used for centuries in Islamic cultures, often associated with the early Islamic scholar Sufyan ibn Uyaynah. In the United States, the name first appeared on record in 1987 and has gained steady popularity, rising since 1994. As of 2025, it ranked 2230th, with a frequency of 1 in 27,112 newborns, and reached its peak year in 2025. The name is most common in states like Washington, Illinois, and New York. Its fit into a style that balances tradition and distinctiveness, making it a meaningful choice for families seeking a name with Islamic heritage.

Sufyan is an Arabic name derived from the root 's-f-y', which connotes speed or swiftness. It has been used historically across the Muslim world, notably borne by a prominent early Islamic scholar. The name gained popularity in Western countries during the late 20th century, particularly among immigrant communities.

Where Sufyan is most popular

Births per 100,000 boys by state, 2025. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.

Fewermore per 100k boystoo few births

Sufyan” around the world

Where Sufyan 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: Sufi, Fyan, Suf

Variants: Sufian, Soufyan, Sufyane

Sibling names for Sufyan

Names that share Sufyan's style, for a brother or sister.

A parent animal hugging its little one, the personalized name page

S is for Sufyan, our favorite little boy.

S is for Sufyan…”

In a Mallowby alphabet book, Sufyan's letter becomes Sufyan's page: hand-illustrated, printed hardcover or paperback, made just for them.

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Questions parents ask

What does the name Sufyan mean?
Sufyan is an Arabic name meaning 'one who moves swiftly', derived from a root connoting speed.
How popular is the name Sufyan?
In 2025, Sufyan ranked 2230th in the U.S., given to about 1 in 27,112 newborns, with rising popularity since 1994.
Is Sufyan a boy's name?
Yes, Sufyan is almost exclusively used as a boy's name.