Raihan
/ˈraɪ.hɑːn/noun
A given name of Arabic origin meaning fragrant basil or sweet-smelling plant.
Did you know?The Arabic word rayḥān appears in the Qur’an, including passages commonly translated as “sweet basil,” “fragrance,” or “aromatic plant.”
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Semitic
Proto-Semitic
*r-w-ḥ
“A root associated with breath, wind, scent, and aromatic qualities; the precise reconstruction of Raihan’s immediate root is debated.”
Classical Arabic
Arabic
رَيْحَان rayḥān
“A fragrant plant, especially basil; something aromatic or sweet-smelling.”
7th Century
Qur’anic Arabic
rayḥān
“A fragrant plant or fragrance, mentioned in Qur’anic descriptions of divine provision and comfort.”
Medieval Persian
Persian
ریحان reyḥān
“Basil or another strongly scented herb, borrowed from Arabic.”
Medieval Islamic world
Arabic/Persian naming
Raihan
“A personal name evoking fragrance, freshness, and an aromatic sacred plant.”
Modern English
English
Raihan
“A personal name used internationally, with variant spellings including Rayhan, Rehan, and Raihaan.”