Muhammad

Muhammad comes from the Arabic root h-m-d — to praise — and means praised one, praiseworthy. Given to the Prophet of Islam in the seventh century, it has been the most commonly given name on earth for much of the modern era, worn by an estimated 150 million living men. In the United States it has climbed steadily into the top 250 as Muslim communities have grown, though spellings proliferate (Mohammed, Muhammed, Mohammad). Ali wore it into the ring and lent it American resonance beyond the mosque. Three syllables, a warm central consonant, a landing that settles. A name of quiet devotional weight.