Latief

Latief is a male given name and, less commonly, a surname used across various Muslim-majority regions. It is a transliteration of the Arabic Latif (اللطيف), from the root L-T-F, which conveys gentleness, kindness, and subtlety. In Islamic tradition, Latif is also one of the 99 names of God, often invoked in compound names such as Abdul Latif, meaning servant of the Gentle.

Spelling and pronunciation vary by language and region. Common variants include Latif, Latiff, and Latief; Latifa or Latifah is the feminine form. In Indonesian and Malay contexts, Latief is a familiar spelling for men and may appear in full names or as a surname in some cases. In Arabic-speaking and other Muslim-majority countries, Latif is widely used as a given name and sometimes as a surname.

As a personal name, Latief is most commonly found among populations in Indonesia, Malaysia, Pakistan, India, and the Arab world, reflecting broader Arabic influence on naming practices in these regions. The name is typically given at birth and may be combined with other elements, such as Abdul Latif, depending on local naming conventions and cultural practices.

Usage notes: Latief is primarily seen as a given name in many cultures, with spelling variations arising from transliteration into different languages. The name remains a conventional choice in parts of Southeast Asia and the broader Muslim world, where it often carries both personal and religious significance.