Rising since 1994, #1,290 for boys today.
Popularity of Yunus since 1988
Babies named Yunus per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1980s | 5 |
| 1990s | 49 |
| 2000s | 175 |
| 2010s | 465 |
| 2020s | 675 |
Meaning & origin
Yunus is a boy's name of Arabic and Hebrew origin, meaning 'dove' or 'pigeon.' First recorded in U.S. data in 1988, it has seen a steady rise in usage, with its trajectory upward since 1994. In 2025, Yunus ranked 1290 nationally, with a 1-in-11,312 incidence among newborn boys. Its peak year to date is 2025, reflecting growing interest. The name is most common in New York, Virginia, and Minnesota. As the Arabic form of Jonah, Yunus carries deep religious significance in Muslim communities, honoring the prophet known for his story of patience and faith. It offers a cross-cultural appeal, bridging Hebrew and Arabic traditions. For families seeking a name with spiritual resonance and a modern yet classic feel, Yunus provides a distinctive choice.
Yunus is the Arabic form of Jonah, a prophet in the Abrahamic traditions. The name derives from Hebrew Yonah, meaning 'dove,' and is used widely in Muslim communities to honor the prophet who was swallowed by a great fish. It has been a common name in the Islamic world for centuries, particularly in Turkey and other regions influenced by Arabic culture.
Where Yunus is most popular
Births per 100,000 boys by state, 2025. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
“Yunus” around the world
Where Yunus lands in the latest official birth statistics abroad, matched to the U.S. spelling.
France
75
babies in 2024
Sources: INSEE (France).
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Yunnie, Yuni
Sibling names for Yunus
Names that share Yunus's style, for a brother or sister.
