The name is derived from the Arabic verb meaning to strike, into the form "tariq striker.

It is used specifically for the one who travels at night time— a night visitor. The Arabs found it a convenience to travel at night because the day was scorching hot. It refers to someone who comes in the middle of the night and knocks on the door. The essential linguistic idea behind it is that which comes at night and calls attention.

However, in Arabic literature, the use of the word appears in the Qur'an where tariq referred to a brilliant star at night which leads the way: Nightcomer or Star of piercing brightness (At-Tariq, verse 3,

Tariq ibn-Ziyad was a military leader who conquered Spain for the Moors, and has led to increased use of the name