Shareef is an Arabic name that means noble or gentleman. It is a popular name in the Middle East and North Africa, particularly in countries such as Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Morocco. The name Shareef has been used in various cultures and religions, including Islam, Christianity, and Judaism. In Islamic tradition, Shareef is considered a praiseworthy name, as it is associated with the Prophet Muhammad's description of the believers as ashraaf al-samaa, or the noblest of people. The name Shareef has been borne by several notable historical figures, including the 13th-century Sufi poet and scholar Ibn Arabi, and the 16th-century Ottoman statesman and military leader Koca Sinan Pasha. In contemporary times, the name Shareef has been popularized by celebrities such as the American actor and musician Sharif Atkins, and the Pakistani cricketer and politician Imran Khan. Shareef is also a common surname in many Arab and Muslim communities, and can be found in countries such as Saudi Arabia, Yemen, and Somalia. In some cultures, the name Shareef is associated with the concept of sharifah, or noblewoman, which is a term used to describe a woman of high social status or noble birth. The name Shareef has been used in various artistic works, such as the 1962 Egyptian film Shareef we-Tafriya (The Noble and the Vagabond), and the 2017 Pakistani drama series Shareef Ladki (The Noble Girl). In some Muslim communities, the name Shareef is considered a blessing, as it is believed to convey a sense of dignity and respectability upon the bearer. The name Shareef has been adapted into various spellings and variations, such as Sharif, Shariff, Shareefa, and Sharifa.

The root form of Shareef is Shareef — meaning Noble, righteous, honorable, pure.

Shareef remains a beloved choice, ranking #34 in the US. Timeless appeal across cultures and generations.