نواب

Nawab

boyUrdu / Persian, from Arabic

Nawab is a Muslim boy name meaning “Governor, deputy ruler, nobleman”.

MeaningGovernor, deputy ruler, nobleman
GenderBoy
OriginUrdu / Persian, from Arabic
Arabic spellingنواب
Pronunciationnah-WAAB
Arabic rootن و ب (n-w-b) — to deputise, to represent
Muslim name?Used by Muslims

Meaning and origin of Nawab

Nawab comes from Arabic nuwwāb, the plural of nāʾib (deputy), and was used in Mughal India as a title for provincial governors and later for the Muslim princely rulers of states such as Awadh and Bhopal. Over time it also became a personal name and nickname in South Asia, suggesting nobility and dignity.

Is Nawab a Muslim name?

Yes, Nawab is used by Muslim families in South Asia. It began as a royal title of Arabic origin rather than a religious name, so it is valued for its sense of nobility.

Where is the name Nawab used?

Used in Pakistan, India and Bangladesh, often as part of a longer name.

Gifts with the name Nawab

As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. We may earn a small commission from these links, at no extra cost to you.

Spellings and variants of Nawab

NawaabNabob

Read more

More boy names like Nawab

Frequently asked questions

What does the name Nawab mean?

Nawab means 'Governor, deputy ruler, nobleman'. It comes from Urdu / Persian, from Arabic.

Is Nawab a Muslim name?

Yes, Nawab is used by Muslim families in South Asia. It began as a royal title of Arabic origin rather than a religious name, so it is valued for its sense of nobility.

How do you write Nawab in Arabic?

Nawab is written نواب in Arabic script.

How do you pronounce Nawab?

Nawab is pronounced nah-WAAB.

Updated October 2026 · Researched by the Modern Muslim Names team. Spotted a mistake? Let us know.