Kalif is a masculine given name rooted in the Arabic term khalīfa (خليفة), which denotes “successor” or “steward” and historically served as the official title of the Caliph, the supreme leader of the early Islamic community. As an Anglicized variant of “Caliph,” the name conveys connotations of authority, leadership and guardianship, reflecting an enduring legacy of political and spiritual stewardship. In contemporary Anglo-American usage, Kalif is pronounced kuh-LEEF (/kəˈliːf/) and has maintained a modest yet consistent presence in the United States. New York State records from 1994 through 1998 document six to eight male newborns per year bearing the name, placing it steadily between the 235th and 248th ranks in male name popularity. Its rare occurrence, combined with its historical resonance, renders Kalif an appealing choice for parents seeking a distinctive appellation imbued with scholarly gravitas.
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