Imari

“a place name” — Associated with Imari porcelain

Japan origin · Unisex name

♂ 29% boys♀ 71% girls

#3658US 2023

31Births / yr

↓Falling

3.2kAll-time births

📅 Since 198500.01% of births at peak

How to pronounce Imari

ee·MAH·ree

/iː.ˈmɑ.riː/ · stress on MAH · 3 syllables

“a place name”

Associated with Imari porcelain · Japan origin

What does Imari mean and where does it come from?

Imari (いまり) is a name of Japanese origin, often associated with Imari porcelain, a type of pottery made in the town of Arita in Saga Prefecture, Japan. In contemporary usage, particularly in the United States, it is considered a modern feminine name that evokes exoticism and beauty.

Cultural significance

Imari has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Japan-speaking communities, where it reflects values of a place name.

Peak popularity

Reached #1546 in 1998 — currently #3658 in the US.

🌿

What middle names flow best with Imari?

Imari works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful

Imari Grace

How popular is Imari right now?

Falling — down 726 spots — currently #3658 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names

US Trend 1985–2023#3658 · Top 2.7%

1985

1990

1995

2000

2005

2010

2015

2020

2021

2022

2023

Year	US Rank	Births	vs Prior Year
2023	#3658	31	▼ down 726 · -28% births
2022	#2932	43	▲ up 451 · +26% births
2021	#3383	34	▲ up 961 · +10% births
2020	#4344	31	▲ up 1546 · +41% births
2015	#5890	22	▼ down 2836 · -60% births
2010	#3054	55	▼ down 924 · -37% births
2005	#2130	87	▼ down 582 · -25% births
2000	#1548	116	▲ up 62 · +25% births
1995	#1610	93	▲ up 1730 · +182% births
1990	#3340	33	▲ up 2218 · +154% births
1985	#5558	13	—

Name Popularity Timeline

Popularity Statistics for Imari

Best Year2000Rank #1548

Peak Count116

Average Rank#3404

Current Trend↘Falling

Data Range1985 - 202311 years

The story of Imari

Imari is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 1985. With 3,184 total births recorded, Imari remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #5558 in 1985 to #3658 in 2023. Imari is used for both genders: 71% female and 29% male.

Names that peaked alongside Imari in 1998:

Emily Hannah Samantha Sarah Ashley

Imari by decade

Imari peaked in the 1990s. See all 1990s names →

Decade	Births
1960s	6
1970s	60
1980s	160
1990s	942
2000s ★	1,280
2010s	656
2020s	80

💎With 3,184 total births, Imari is an uncommon but established name.

What are good nicknames for Imari?

Common

ImaImImieImy

What names sound and feel like Imari?

Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Imari also consider these

Japanese · rice, harvest

Imauri

American · Gifted one

Ymari

Japan · Japanese

Ilari

Hebrew · A Hebrew name

Iyari

Spanish · gift of the

Miari

Japan · Japanese

Common questions about the name Imari

What does the name Imari mean?

Imari means "a place name" — a name rooted in Japan tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.

How popular is the name Imari?

Imari is currently a distinctive and less common name as a baby name in the US and is becoming rarer and more distinctive, making it a unique choice that stands out.

What is the cultural origin of Imari?

Imari originates from Japan tradition. Japan names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.

How do you pronounce the name Imari?

Imari is a three-syllable name pronounced IY0 M AA1 R IY0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.

What sibling names go well with Imari?

Imari pairs beautifully with sibling names that share a similar Japan heritage or complement its melodic and flowing sound. Names with a similar vibe create a cohesive sibling set without matching too closely.