Bodhi

Meaning & origin

Bodhi is a name of Sanskrit origin meaning awakening or enlightenment, drawn from the Buddhist concept of spiritual insight. It first appeared in U.S. birth records in 1976, reflecting a growing interest in names with spiritual and cross-cultural resonance. Since then, Bodhi has steadily risen in popularity; as of 2025 it ranks 265th nationally, with a 1-in-1313 birth rate. Its peak year to date is 2025, suggesting continued ascent. The name is most common in Hawaii, Alaska, and South Dakota, pointing to a broad but scattered appeal. Bodhi is typically given to boys, though it has unisex potential. Its short, open sound and positive meaning align with trends favoring names like Rhett and Kai. Parents drawn to Bodhi often pair it with sibling names that are similarly concise and modern, such as Luna or Finn. As a relatively recent adoption in the English-speaking world, Bodhi retains a fresh, contemporary feel rooted in an ancient tradition.

Bodhi derives from the Sanskrit root 'budh' meaning 'to awaken' or 'to know.' In Buddhism, bodhi refers to the state of enlightenment attained by the Buddha. The name has been used in the West since the late 20th century, initially surfacing in the United States in 1976. It gained popularity as a spiritual name with a modern feel.