Jamari Unisex
Name Meaning & Origin Pronunciation: jah-MAR-ee /dʒəˈmɑːri/
Origin: African; American
Meaning: African: 'handsome'; American: 'gift from God'
Historical & Cultural Background
The name Jamari is believed to have roots in the African American community, emerging in the late 20th century. It is often considered a modern invention, possibly derived from a combination of names such as Jamal, which has Arabic origins meaning 'beauty,' and the suffix '-ari,' which may be influenced by names like Amari.
The exact etymology is somewhat ambiguous, as it does not have a clear lineage through historical languages like Hebrew, Greek, or Latin, but it reflects a trend in contemporary naming practices that blend cultural influences and phonetic appeal. Historically, the name Jamari does not have significant milestones in ancient texts or notable figures, as it is a relatively recent addition to the lexicon of names.
However, it can be associated with the broader cultural movements of the late 20th century, particularly within African American communities, where unique and creative names gained prominence. This period saw a rise in names that reflect individuality and cultural identity, often inspired by a blend of traditional and modern influences.
Culturally, Jamari resonates with themes of strength and uniqueness, embodying a sense of pride in heritage and personal identity. The name's phonetic structure, with its rhythmic quality, contributes to its appeal in various contexts, including literature and music.
While there are no widely recognized diminutive forms, the name's versatility allows for affectionate variations to emerge organically within families and communities. Overall, Jamari represents a contemporary expression of identity, reflecting the dynamic nature of naming practices in modern society.
Famous people named Jamari
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U.S. Historical Usage
The name Jamari was first seen in the United States in 1979. Jamari has ranked as high as #721 nationally, which occurred in 2008, and has been most popular in Florida, Georgia, Illinois, North Carolina, and Texas. In the past 5 years the name Jamari has been trending up compared to the previous 5 years.
Popularity Over Time (National)
Top States for Jamari (2024)
| State | Births | Share |
|---|---|---|
| FL | 59 | |
| TX | 45 | |
| GA | 39 | |
| AL | 33 | |
| NC | 25 | |
| NY | 25 | |
| TN | 24 | |
| IL | 24 | |
| MS | 22 | |
| CA | 21 | |
| LA | 20 | |
| OH | 19 | |
| PA | 17 | |
| VA | 15 | |
| MD | 14 |
Popularity Over Time (National) — Table
| Year | Births |
|---|---|
| 1979 | 8 |
| 1980 | 6 |
| 1981 | 5 |
| 1982 | 10 |
| 1983 | 12 |
| 1984 | 8 |
| 1985 | 14 |
| 1986 | 11 |
| 1987 | 16 |
| 1988 | 20 |
| 1989 | 22 |
| 1990 | 38 |
| 1991 | 40 |
| 1992 | 52 |
| 1993 | 57 |
| 1994 | 89 |
| 1995 | 110 |
| 1996 | 120 |
| 1997 | 140 |
| 1998 | 180 |
| 1999 | 177 |
| 2000 | 230 |
| 2001 | 315 |
| 2002 | 388 |
| 2003 | 519 |
| 2004 | 614 |
| 2005 | 631 |
| 2006 | 616 |
| 2007 | 695 |
| 2008 | 774 |
| 2009 | 732 |
| 2010 | 741 |
| 2011 | 615 |
| 2012 | 677 |
| 2013 | 495 |
| 2014 | 483 |
| 2015 | 523 |
| 2016 | 483 |
| 2017 | 486 |
| 2018 | 489 |
| 2019 | 495 |
| 2020 | 473 |
| 2021 | 485 |
| 2022 | 585 |
| 2023 | 516 |
| 2024 | 528 |