Walid

Walid is an Arabic masculine given name meaning "newborn" in Arabic. It is derived from the Arabic root walada (to give birth), which is the same root found in related concepts of birth and offspring. The name carries connotations of new life and vitality, and is commonly used across the Muslim world in various spellings.

Etymology and Variants

The name Walid comes directly from the Arabic word walīd (وليد), which means "newborn child." Its root, walada, is also the source of other names such as Walid itself. The most common variant is Waleed, used in many Arabic-speaking countries, while Oualid is a Maghrebi variant. In Turkish, the name appears as Velid. The name is occasionally found with the definite article al-, as in Al-Walid, often used in historical contexts.

Historical Significance

Notable Bearers Numerous modern figures bear the name in various spellings. Waleed Aly (born 1978), an Egyptian-origin Australian journalist and broadcaster, is known for hosting the talk show Australian Story. Al-Waleed bin Talal (born 1955), a Saudi prince and billionaire businessman, is noted for his investments in global companies. Other bearers include Kuwaiti footballer Waleed Ali, Saudi footballer Waleed Al-Ahmed, and American scientist Waleed Abdalati, a former NASA chief scientist. However, one infamous bearer is Waleed al-Shehri, one of the hijackers in the September 11 attacks. The Palestinian writer and activist Waleed al-Husseini is known for his opposition to Islamism and for founding the Council of Ex-Muslims in France.

Cultural Context

Walīd and its variants are common in Arabic-speaking and Muslim-majority countries, but less common outside those cultural spheres. The name's meaning of "newborn" reflects a tradition of giving names that highlight positive attributes or blessings. The popularity of the spelling Waleed has spread to Western countries via diaspora communities.

• Meaning: Newborn
• Origin: Arabic
• Type: First Name
• Usage Regions: Arabic-speaking world, Muslim societies
• Actor: Derives from root walada (to give birth)