Rising since 2003, #4,460 for girls today.
Popularity of Mahari since 1997
Babies named Mahari per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls | Boys |
|---|---|---|
| 1990s | 0 | 26 |
| 2000s | 66 | 92 |
| 2010s | 191 | 110 |
| 2020s | 140 | 102 |
Meaning & origin
Mahari is a name of uncertain origin that first entered U.S. birth records in 2001. It has maintained modest but consistent use, with a peak in 2017. The name is most common in Georgia, where it saw enough usage to be noted among top states. Since 2003, its trajectory has been rising, indicating a gradual increase in interest. With a rank of 4460 and a rarity of 1 in 51,847, Mahari remains an uncommon choice. Its etymology is ambiguous, possibly rooted in African languages or a modern coinage inspired by the angel Mahariel. This flexibility makes it an appealing option for parents seeking a name that is both distinctive and open to interpretation.
Mahari first appeared in U.S. records in 2001 and has seen modest use, particularly in Georgia. Its etymology is unclear; it may be derived from elements in African languages such as Swahili (where 'maha' relates to 'great' or 'large') or Amharic, or it could be a modern coinage blending sounds from names like Mahariel (from the angel Mahariel in the video game 'Dragon Age') or inspired by the term 'mahari' meaning 'mercy' in some contexts. Without clear historical documentation, its origin remains speculative.
Where Mahari is most popular
Births per 100,000 girls by state, 2025. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Mah, Ari, Hari
Sibling names for Mahari
Names that share Mahari's style, for a brother or sister.
