imran

Imran is a masculine given name of Arabic origin, widely used in the Muslim world and in communities with South Asian and Middle Eastern heritage. The name is derived from the Arabic word Imran (عِمْرَان), and is often associated with meanings such as prosperity, long life, or a thriving community. In Islamic tradition, Imran is the name of the father of Mary (Maryam), and the family of Imran is mentioned in the Quran in Surah Aal-e-Imran, a chapter that discusses Mary and Jesus. The name is common across Arabic-speaking countries and has spread through Urdu, Persian, Turkish, and other languages, where it may appear as Imran, Imraan, or Emraan, sometimes used as a surname as well as a given name.

Usage and cultural context vary by region, but Imran remains a frequent choice for boys in many countries with Muslim communities. The name’s religious association in Islam, along with its simple phonetics, contributes to its enduring popularity in families seeking traditional or culturally significant names.

Notable people named Imran include Imran Khan (born 1952), Pakistani politician and former international cricketer who served as prime minister from 2018 to 2022; Imran Abbas (born 1983), Pakistani actor and model; and Imran Tahir (born 1979), Pakistani-born cricketer who played for South Africa. The name is widely used across cultures and has many other notable bearers in sports, entertainment, and public life.