Log in · Sign up

Ori Unisex

Popularity: #813 · Trend: ↗ Rising

Name Meaning & Origin Pronunciation: OR-ee //ˈɔːri//

Origin: Hebrew; Japanese

Meaning: Hebrew: 'light'; Japanese: 'to weave'

Historical & Cultural Background

The name Ori has its roots in Hebrew, deriving from the word 'or,' which means 'light' or 'my light.' This etymological foundation can be traced back to ancient Hebrew texts, where the concept of light often symbolizes knowledge, purity, and divine presence. The name appears in various forms throughout Jewish history and is associated with themes of enlightenment and guidance.

As Hebrew evolved, the name maintained its significance, and its phonetic structure remained largely intact as it transitioned into other languages, including English. Historically, the name Ori has been linked to notable figures in Jewish tradition.

One such reference is found in the Hebrew Bible, where light is a recurring motif, particularly in the creation narrative in Genesis, where God creates light, separating it from darkness. This biblical association imbues the name with a sense of spiritual depth and cultural resonance.

The name has also been borne by various Jewish scholars and leaders throughout the centuries, reinforcing its significance within Jewish communities. In addition to its biblical connections, Ori has cultural resonance in Jewish folklore and tradition.

The name is often associated with the idea of hope and renewal, reflecting the enduring human spirit in the face of adversity. In some contexts, diminutive forms of the name, such as Oren, which means 'pine tree,' also carry connotations of strength and resilience, further enriching the name's cultural tapestry.

Overall, Ori embodies a rich historical and linguistic legacy, symbolizing light and enlightenment across various cultural narratives.

Famous people named Ori

Ori Gersht is an artist and photographer best known for his works exploring themes of memory and history.
Ori Anavim is a musician best known for his contributions to the Israeli music scene.
Ori Lavi is a professional footballer best known for playing as a midfielder in various leagues.

Fictional characters named Ori

Ori is a fictional character from the video game Ori and the Blind Forest. They are a guardian spirit who embarks on a quest to save their forest home from decay.

Sibling suggestions

Similar names

U.S. Historical Usage

The name Ori was first seen in the United States in 1971. Ori has ranked as high as #1249 nationally, which occurred in 2024, and has been most popular in California, New York, Florida, Texas, and Massachusetts. In the past 5 years the name Ori has been trending up compared to the previous 5 years.

Popularity Over Time (National)

Top States for Ori (2024)

State Births Share
CA 22
34%
NY 19
29%
MA 7
11%
TX 7
11%
FL 5
8%
WA 5
8%

Popularity Over Time (National) — Table

YearBirths
19718
19727
19756
19777
19785
19798
198110
19829
198310
198615
198710
198812
198918
199014
199118
199214
199316
199417
199512
199618
199713
199827
199920
200024
200123
200223
200329
200429
200532
200651
200737
200844
200945
201049
201154
201252
201353
201436
201550
201652
201751
201866
201966
202060
202151
202284
202374
2024111