MallowbyNames

Marjani

mar-JAH-nee · Of debated origin; possibly a Swahili name meaning 'coral' or a variant of Marjan.

Peak popularity
1991
Usually for
Girls
Trend
Rising since 2022

Rising since 2022.

Popularity of Marjani since 1978

Babies named Marjani per year in U.S. Social Security records.

4913198020002020Most births 1991Girls
Data table (by decade)
DecadeGirls
1970s5
1980s11
1990s65
2000s17
2010s0
2020s5

Meaning & origin

Marjani is a rare but distinctive name, first recorded in the United States in 1978. Though it has never entered the top 1000, its usage peaked in 1991 and has been on the rise again since 2022. The name carries oceanic associations from its Swahili meaning of 'coral,' a connection many parents find appealing. Its rarity gives it a unique feel, and the recent upward trajectory suggests a growing interest in this melodic, nature inspired choice.

Marjani is most commonly associated with the Swahili word for 'coral,' though it may also be a feminine form of Marjan, a Persian and Arabic name meaning 'coral' or 'small pearl.' The name has been used in East Africa and among African American communities since the late 20th century, reflecting a broader trend of adopting names with natural and gemstone associations.

Nicknames & variants

Nicknames: Marji, Jani, MJ

Variants: Marjane, Marjan

Sibling names for Marjani

Names that share Marjani's style, for a brother or sister.

Sisters: Zuri, Amara, Nia, Sanaa, Imani

Brothers: Kwame, Jabari, Zaire, Malik, Omari

A parent animal hugging its little one, the personalized name page

M is for Marjani, our favorite little girl.

M is for Marjani…”

In a Mallowby alphabet book, Marjani's letter becomes Marjani's page: hand-illustrated, printed hardcover or paperback, made just for them.

Make Marjani's book

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Questions parents ask

What does the name Marjani mean?
Marjani is thought to mean 'coral' in Swahili, though it may also be linked to the Arabic and Persian name Marjan with a similar meaning.
How popular is the name Marjani?
Marjani has never ranked in the U.S. top 1000. It was first recorded in 1978, peaked in usage in 1991, and has been rising since 2022.
Is Marjani a boy's or girl's name?
Marjani is almost exclusively used as a girl's name.