Eri is a name of Japanese origin, derived from the word "eri" which means "lily." It is often associated with the lily flower, known for its elegant and graceful beauty. In Japan, Eri is considered to be a feminine name, but it can also be used as a unisex name in other cultures.
The name Eri has a rich history in Japanese culture. According to legend, Eri was the name of one of the three daughters of Emperor Jimmu, who was said to be the first emperor of Japan. The daughters were named Hime, Yori, and Eri, with Eri being the youngest. It is also believed that Eri was the name of a Shinto goddess associated with agriculture and fertility.
Throughout Japanese literature and art, Eri has been used as a character name in various works. One notable example is in the famous Japanese novel "The Tale of Genji" by Murasaki Shikibu, where one of the main characters is named Eri.
Today, Eri remains a popular name in Japan, with its meaning and history still deeply ingrained in Japanese culture. It continues to be chosen by parents for their daughters as a symbol of grace, elegance, and beauty, while also holding historical significance.
The name Eri has had a fluctuating but steady presence in the United States over the past five decades. Between 1972 and 2023, there have been a total of 428 births registered with the name Eri.
The earliest data available shows that there were 5 births each in 1972 and 1976. The number of births then increased slightly to 8 in both 1979 and 1980, followed by a peak of 9 births in 1981. After this, the number of births fluctuated between 5 and 14 annually until 1992 when there were 24 births, indicating a significant increase in popularity for that year.
From 1993 onwards, the number of births with the name Eri varied more consistently, ranging from as low as 5 (in several years) to as high as 47 in 2022. The most recent data shows that there were 34 births registered in 2023.
Overall, while the popularity of the name Eri has ebbed and flowed over time, it remains a recognizable and chosen name for parents in the United States.