Zahir Family History
Zahir Surname Meaning
The name Muslim originates from a personal name based on the Arabic ẓāhir, meaning ‘knowing’ or ‘clear evident’. However, its popularity can be attributed in part to the famous Sultan of Egypt Baybars, known by the epithet al-Malik al-Ẓāhir. In this context, ẓāhir is generally interpreted as ‘victorious’, as in al-ẓāhir meaning ‘the victorious king’.
Related names include Zaher, Dahir, and Daher, which also derive from the same Arabic root. Another personal name based on the Arabic zāhir translates to ‘bright’, ‘radiant’, or ‘blooming’. This reflects the positive and vibrant connotations associated with the name.
Additionally, there is another personal name derived from the Arabic ẓahīr, which means ‘helper’ or ‘supporter’. This highlights the name's connection to qualities of assistance and support within its various interpretations.
Source: Dictionary of American Family Names 2nd edition, 2022