Rising since 1985, #1,992 for boys today.
Popularity of Ori since 1971
Babies named Ori per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls | Boys |
|---|---|---|
| 1970s | 0 | 41 |
| 1980s | 6 | 84 |
| 1990s | 0 | 169 |
| 2000s | 46 | 338 |
| 2010s | 123 | 530 |
| 2020s | 172 | 457 |
Meaning & origin
Ori is a short, vibrant name with roots in Hebrew culture and modern naming trends. First recorded in the U.S. in 1971, it climbed to rank 1992 by 2025, with a 1-in-22,475 usage rate. The name peaked in popularity in 2024, reflecting a steady upward trajectory since 1985. Geographically, Ori is most common in Massachusetts, New Jersey, and California, aligning with states that favor distinctive, multicultural names. Its dual potential as a Hebrew name meaning 'my light' or a modern nickname gives it broad appeal, while its rising popularity among both boys and girls underscores its flexible, contemporary character.
Ori is a name of debated etymology. It may derive from Hebrew אור (or) meaning 'light,' with the suffix -i meaning 'my,' yielding 'my light.' Alternatively, it could be a short form of Oren, Hebrew for 'pine tree,' or a modern coinage from Oriel, a medieval name meaning 'gold of heaven' in Latin. The name has been used in Israel since the mid-20th century and gained popularity in English-speaking countries as a trendy unisex name.
Where Ori is most popular
Births per 100,000 boys by state, 2025. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
“Ori” around the world
Where Ori lands in the latest official birth statistics abroad, matched to the U.S. spelling.
France
5
babies in 2024
Sources: INSEE (France).
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Ri, O
Sibling names for Ori
Names that share Ori's style, for a brother or sister.
