These are the most common names in the world and the meanings behind them

If you are a parent or a parent-to-be, you’ve most likely googled lists of names for your child. While the name assigned to a newborn has its etymology and significance, it may come to reveal a lot about the 'baptizer' as well.

For instance, if you have a religious name, you are most probably born into a family where faith is important. Don’t we all remember Ezekiel or Joseph from the Sunday service? Moreover, people tend to name their children based on a famous personality that they’ve been attached to. Don’t you think so, Elvis?

According to Forebears, these are the 10 most common first names in the world and the meanings behind them:

1. Maria

This is the Latin form of Mary which came into fashion in England during the 18th century and well into the 19th century as well. Today, this name is most prevalent in Brazil.

2. Nushi

Nushi is a girl's name which literally means 'sweet' in Hindu.

3. Mohammed

To settle this for all the variations we'll see, it is a masculine name that means 'greatly praised' in Arabic.

4. Jose

This is a variation of the name Joseph which is biblical. Today, this first name is commonly found in Brazil.

5. Muhammad

You already know it. However, this particular spelling is most prevalent in Pakistan.

6. Wei

Wei is a Chinese gender-neutral name that means 'valuable' or 'brilliant' in Mandarin.

7. Ahmed

Ahmed is an Arabic masculine name that means 'one who thanks God' or the 'thankful one.' This one is commonly found in Egypt nowadays.

8. Yan

Yan is a Chinese feminine first name that means 'beautiful.' However, it is not uncommon to find this as a last name as well in China.

9. Ali

Ali is an Arabic masculine name which means 'high,' 'elevated,' or 'champion.' This name is commonly found in Iran today.

10. John

John is a masculine name of Hebrew origin which means 'graced by God.' In fact, this is the most common Jewish first name and is mostly found in the United States.

If we take a look at this list, we can easily guess that almost all of them originate from religion – I’m talking about all the different versions of Mohamed – sorry Elvis and Karen!

Sources used:

Forebears: Most Popular First Names In The World

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