Irfaan

Irfaan is a masculine given name used primarily in South Asia and parts of the Middle East. It derives from the Arabic word Irfan (عرفان), meaning knowledge, recognition, or gnosis, and is often associated with insight or spiritual understanding in Islamic cultural contexts.

Spelling variants such as Irfan, Irfaan, and Irfhaan reflect transliteration from Arabic and South Asian scripts. The double-a form Irfaan is common in Urdu-influenced naming traditions, where long vowels are indicated in transliteration. The name is typically given at birth and may be used across Muslim communities, as well as by non-Muslims in regions with shared cultural naming practices.

Usage and popularity: In countries like India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and in Gulf states, Irfaan is a common male given name. It is often chosen to convey attributes of wisdom, learning, and perception. The name appears in literature and media in various forms, reflecting its broad cultural resonance.

Notable people: The name has been borne by public figures in sports, arts, and scholarship in South Asia and beyond. As with many given names, individual prominence varies by country and language.

See also: Irfan (name); Irfan (disambiguation).