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.