Hussein
A male given name, the diminutive of Hassan, from the root ḥ-s-n ('good, beautiful').
- Root
- ḥ-s-n (ح-س-ن)
- Gender
- Male
- Meaning
- Diminutive of Hassan (endearment)
- Origin
- Arabic
Meaning and root
Hussein (ḥusayn) is the diminutive form of Hassan, from the root ḥ-s-n (ح-س-ن). The diminutive here conveys endearment: 'little beautiful one'.
Usage
Borne by al-Ḥusayn ibn ʿAlī, grandson of the Prophet, and very widely used ever since. It is frequently paired with Hassan within families.
Frequently asked questions
What does the name Hussein mean?
It is the diminutive of Hassan ('good, beautiful'), used as a term of endearment.
Sources
- ابن منظور، لسان العرب، 711هـ — مادة: حسن
Last reviewed: 2026-07-09