Rising since 1985, #837 for boys today.
Popularity of Dakari since 1974
Babies named Dakari per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1970s | 24 |
| 1980s | 5 |
| 1990s | 233 |
| 2000s | 696 |
| 2010s | 1,383 |
| 2020s | 1,985 |
Meaning & origin
Dakari is a modern masculine name that first appeared in U.S. records in 1974. It reached its peak popularity in 2020, and as of 2025 it ranks 837th with about 1 in 5790 boys receiving the name. Its usage has been rising steadily since 1985, reflecting a broader trend of African American coinages blending Swahili-sounding elements. The name is most commonly found in Arkansas, Mississippi, and Maryland. While its meaning is often cited as 'joyful,' the Swahili origin is unverified, making Dakari a name of uncertain but appealing meaning.
Dakari is a modern name that likely emerged in the late 20th century within African American communities. It is often associated with the Swahili word 'furaha' meaning joy, though the direct linguistic link is unconfirmed. The name gained visibility in the 1970s and has steadily increased in usage since the 1980s.
Where Dakari is most popular
Births per 100,000 boys by state, 2025. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: DK, Kari
Variants: Dakarai, Dakare
Sibling names for Dakari
Names that share Dakari's style, for a brother or sister.
