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Muhammad becomes UK’s most popular boy name, reflecting demographic shifts


Sunday December 8, 2024


(Comstock Images | Getty Images)

Mogadishu (HOL) — Muhammad has officially become the most popular baby name for boys in England and Wales, marking a historic shift in the UK's naming trends. The Office for National Statistics (ONS) reported that 4,661 boys were given the name Muhammad in 2023, surpassing Noah, which had held the top spot for the past two years.

When accounting for alternative spellings such as Mohammed, Mohammad, and Mohamed, the total rises to 7,730—a figure that underscores the increasing prominence of this Islamic name in the UK. This means that one in every 40 boys born in England and Wales last year carries this name, a testament to the country's evolving cultural landscape.

"The multiple spellings of Muhammad reflect the adaptability of traditional names in modern Britain," an ONS analyst observed. "This diversity enriches our understanding of naming trends."

The name Muhammad, derived from the Arabic root "hamad," meaning "to praise," has deep cultural and religious significance. It is shared with the Prophet Muhammad, the founder of Islam, revered by over a billion Muslims worldwide. The name's popularity reflects its spiritual resonance and role as a unifying identity in Muslim communities.

The Somali community, a significant cultural presence in the UK, has long championed the name Muhammad as a nod to religious heritage. 

The rise in Muhammad's popularity aligns with demographic shifts. The UK's growing Muslim population—bolstered by immigration and higher birth rates—has contributed significantly to this trend. Sporting icons like Mo Farah, Mohamed Salah, and Muhammad Ali have also popularized the name, making it resonate beyond religious circles.

Interestingly, Muhammad's rise mirrors broader societal changes. Names once considered niche are now gaining mainstream acceptance, a testament to the UK's increasingly multicultural identity.

For girls, Olivia remains the favourite, followed by Amelia and Isla—names that have consistently topped the charts since 2022. Hyphenated names, particularly for girls, saw a sharp rise, with 19,240 recorded last year compared to 12,330 in 2022. New entries like Leila, Raya, and Hazel suggest evolving preferences blending tradition and modernity.

The data reveals more than just the popularity of Muhammad. Names like Margot and Cillian surged in 2023, driven by cultural phenomena like "Barbenheimer." The Kardashian-Jenner family's influence persists, with names like Reign and Saint gaining traction. Meanwhile, traditional royal names such as George and Archie have seen notable declines.



 





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