Tarek
Meaning of Tarek
Tarek is a masculine name of Arabic origin, derived from Ṭāriq meaning “he who knocks” or “morning star,” and famously borne by the 8th-century general Tariq ibn Ziyad who led the 711 conquest of Iberia. Pronounced TAH-rek (/'tæ.ɾek/), it has traveled beyond the Arab world into Spanish- and Portuguese-speaking cultures, where its historical resonance and straightforward sound have appealed to parents seeking a name with both gravitas and cross-cultural flair. In the United States, Tarek ranked 898th in 2024 with 26 newborns, maintaining a steady presence near the low 900s over the past five years. Its balanced blend of bold heritage and global reach continues to draw families looking for a distinctive yet accessible choice.
Pronunciation
Arabic
- Pronunced as TAH-rek (/'tæ.ɾek/)
U.S. Popularity Chart
Notable People Named Tarek
| Tarek Dergoul is a British citizen of Moroccan origin who reported abuse and coerced confessions during his detention in Afghanistan and Guantanamo Bay. |
| Tarek Atoui is a Lebanese artist and composer known for his contemporary work. |
| Tarek El Moussa is an American real estate investor and TV personality best known for co-hosting HGTV's Flip or Flop. |
| Tarek Alarian is an Egyptian Palestinian film director also known as Tarek Eryan. |
| Tarek Shahin is an Egyptian cartoonist and author best known for creating the comic strip Al Khan. |
| Tarek Yehia is an Egyptian weightlifter who won a bronze medal at the 2012 London Olympics. |
