The surname Desai is of Indian origin, specifically from the state of Gujarat. It is an occupational name for a village headman or chief, derived from the Sanskrit word 'desa' meaning 'country' or 'village', and 'ai' as a suffix indicating ownership or control. The name reflects the importance of community leadership in ancient Indian society.
"Over the span of these years, there were significant fluctuations in births named Desai annually, ranging from a low of 5 to a high of 11."