Declining since 1985, #2,076 for girls today.
Popularity of Kari since 1934
Babies named Kari per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1930s | 25 |
| 1940s | 157 |
| 1950s | 2,238 |
| 1960s | 10,972 |
| 1970s | 18,753 |
| 1980s | 17,543 |
| 1990s | 6,315 |
| 2000s | 1,800 |
| 2010s | 1,166 |
| 2020s | 727 |
Meaning & origin
Kari first appeared on U.S. records in 1934, but it truly gained popularity in the 1970s, peaking in 1975. Since 1985, its usage has been steadily falling. Historically, the name was most common in states such as Maryland, Ohio, and Georgia. The name Kari is a modern, cross-cultural adaptation of the Irish root Ciarán, and it has been used as a variant of Karen or Caroline, though its Irish origins give it a distinct meaning of 'dark-haired' or 'black'. While never as common as similar names like Tara or Maureen, Kari enjoyed a notable presence in the latter half of the 20th century.
Kari is a modern feminine form of the Irish name Ciarán, which itself is derived from the Old Irish word 'ciar' meaning 'dark' or 'black'. Traditionally borne by several Irish saints, Ciarán was originally a male name. The feminine adaptations, including Kari, emerged in the English-speaking world in the 20th century, often used as a cross-cultural variant of Karen or Caroline.
Where Kari is most popular
Births per 100,000 girls by state. Press play or drag the slider to watch it move across the decades. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Sibling names for Kari
Names that share Kari's style, for a brother or sister.
Names like Kari
Names whose popularity has moved with Kari's over the last 50 years.
