Khalef

Khalef is a given name and surname of Arabic origin that appears in several transliterations, including Khalif, Khaleef, Kaleef, and, in some contexts, Khalifa. The form Khalef is commonly encountered in transliteration schemes that reflect regional pronunciation, and its use varies by country and language.

The name is derived from the Arabic root kh-l-f, which conveys the sense of succeeding, following after, or replacing. In this sense, Khalef can carry the meaning of “successor” or “one who follows.” As a personal name, Khalef is typically linked to positive associations connected with lineage or continuity, though it is used independently of any specific title.

In naming practice, Khalef is most commonly found among Arabic-speaking populations and in diaspora communities around the world. It is generally treated as a masculine given name, with feminine forms appearing in related names such as Khalifa or Khaleefa. The spelling of the name varies with transliteration systems and regional pronunciation, contributing to a range of forms in international records.

Notable bearers of the name use one of its transliterations and may come from diverse professional fields. The form Khalef itself has been recorded in personal naming across several countries but does not identify a single widely known public figure. In fiction and contemporary media, Khalef is occasionally employed as a character name to convey cultural or regional background.

See also: Khalifa, Khalif, Kalif.