Mehrad

Mehrad is a masculine given name of Persian origin. It is used in Iran and among Persian-speaking communities in Afghanistan, Tajikistan, and the Iranian diaspora. The spelling Mehrad is one of several transliterations; a more common variant is Mehrdad. The name is typically treated as a traditional given name rather than a family name.

Etymology and meaning: Mehr is a central element in Persian names and has associations with Mithra, the sun, and affectionate regard or friendship in Persian culture. The second element in Mehrad functions as a suffix that conveys the sense of gifting or giving. Taken together, the name is commonly interpreted as “gift of Mehr” or “given by Mithra,” reflecting a combination of celestial or benevolent imagery with a sense of blessing.

Usage and cultural context: Mehrad has been used in Iran for generations and remains part of contemporary naming practices. The name also appears among Persian-speaking communities abroad, where it can reflect cultural heritage and linguistic tradition. Because of its connections to Mithra and to positive attributes such as kindness and friendship, Mehrad is perceived as a name with favorable connotations in Persian-speaking societies.