Omari is a name of African origin, specifically from the Mandinka people of West Africa. It is composed of two parts: "Oma," which means "birth" or "to give birth," and "ri," which means "king." Therefore, Omari translates to "the king was born."
The name Omari has a rich history dating back centuries. In traditional Mandinka culture, it was believed that the birth of a child would bring good fortune to the family and community. Thus, naming a child Omari signified that they were destined for greatness and were believed to be blessed with royalty.
Over time, the name Omari spread beyond its original Mandinka community, gaining popularity among people of African descent and later being adopted by individuals from diverse backgrounds worldwide. Today, Omari is recognized as a unisex name, with its usage transcending cultural boundaries and becoming more common in various countries around the globe.
Despite its widespread use today, Omari remains deeply rooted in its African heritage. Its unique origin story and meaningful translation continue to captivate people who choose this name for their children or themselves.
The name Omari experienced a significant rise in popularity over the past four decades, with a notable surge occurring between the late 1970s and early 1980s, peaking in 2018-2019 with approximately 618 births each year. However, there was a decline in its usage starting from 2020 onwards, dropping to around 495 births in 2023. Overall, Omari has been given to approximately 12,291 newborns since 1971.