Zaki

Zaki is a masculine given name of Arabic origin. It means pure, clean, or righteous, and is used in many Muslim-majority countries. In addition to given name usage, Zaki also appears as a surname in some communities. The form is common across various transliterations in different languages and regions.

Etymology: Zaki derives from the Arabic root z-k-y (zaki). The adjective zakī denotes purity, integrity, and moral uprightness. The name is typically transliterated as Zaki, but variants include Zakī, Zakki, or Zakki, depending on regional languages and orthographic conventions. In some contexts, it may be used as an honorable epithet.

Usage: As a given name, Zaki is predominantly masculine and widely used in the Middle East, North Africa, the Indian subcontinent, and Southeast Asia, as well as among diaspora communities. It is also encountered as a surname in parts of the Arab and South Asian world.

Cultural references: Zaki appears in literature, media, and public life as a conventional personal name rather than a title. Notable bearers span various fields, including sports, academia, and public service, reflecting the name's broad regional adoption. The name's meaning—purity and integrity—contributes to its enduring popularity in naming traditions.