Idris

Origin and meaning of Idris

Idris (إدريس) is the name of a prophet mentioned in the Quran, traditionally identified by Islamic exegetes with the biblical figure of Enoch. The most widely accepted etymology links it to the root d-r-s, 'to study', pointing to a man of great wisdom devoted to scripture and celestial sciences, often regarded in Muslim tradition as the inventor of writing and astronomy. Carrying strong religious and intellectual prestige, the name is common across the Arab world and gained further international visibility through British actor Idris Elba, of Sierra Leonean and Ghanaian descent.

Famous people

• Idris Elba— actor