Khari

“Kingly or regal” — Associated with leadership

African origin · Unisex name

♂ 72% boys♀ 28% girls

#828US 2023

296Births / yr

↓Falling

4.9kAll-time births

📅 Since 197600.01% of births at peak

What does Khari mean and where does it come from?

Khari is a name commonly found within African cultures, likely derived from Swahili or other Bantu languages. The name suggests a sense of strength and authority, often associated with leadership. Its popularity has risen in the United States, especially among African American communities, as a name

Cultural significance

Khari has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in African-speaking communities, where it reflects values of kingly or regal.

Peak popularity

Reached #1082 in 2019 — currently #828 in the US.

🌿

What middle names flow best with Khari?

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

Khari Grace

How popular is Khari right now?

Declining — down 30 spots — currently #828 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names

US Trend 1980–2023#828 · Top 0.61%

1980

1990

1995

2000

2005

2010

2015

2020

2021

2022

2023

Year	US Rank	Births	vs Prior Year
2023	#828	296	▼ down 30 · -6% births
2022	#798	315	▼ down 41 · -5% births
2021	#757	331	▲ up 525 · +92% births
2020	#1282	172	▲ up 2440 · +320% births
2015	#3722	41	▲ up 3281 · +128% births
2010	#7003	18	▼ down 653 · -5% births
2005	#6350	19	▲ up 280 · +19% births
2000	#6630	16	▲ up 629 · +33% births
1995	#7259	12	▲ up 4719 · +100% births
1990	#11978	6	▼ down 686 · +20% births
1980	#11292	5	—

Name Popularity Timeline

Popularity Statistics for Khari

Best Year2021Rank #757

Peak Count331

Average Rank#5264

Current Trend↗Rising

Data Range1980 - 202311 years

The story of Khari

Khari is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 1976. With 4,892 total births recorded, Khari remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #11292 in 1980 to #828 in 2023. Khari is used for both genders: 28% female and 72% male.

Names that peaked alongside Khari in 2019:

Olivia Emma Ava Sophia Isabella

Khari by decade

Khari peaked in the 2010s. See all 2010s names →

Decade	Births
1970s	294
1980s	137
1990s	1,089
2000s	746
2010s ★	2,077
2020s	549

💎With 4,892 total births, Khari is an uncommon but established name.

What are good nicknames for Khari?

Common

KhaKharKharieKhary

Famous people named Khari

Khari (West African traditional leader)

Khari bore this name in the royal traditions of West African kingdoms.

Khari (African poet or griot)

Khari passed this name through the oral tradition of African storytelling and music.

Khari (Pan-African activist)

Khari used this name in the movement for African cultural pride and independence.

Khari (modern African leader)

Khari brought this name to international recognition in contemporary African politics and culture.

👑

Celebrity Names

What celebrities named their babies in 2025

Explore →

What names sound and feel like Khari?

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

Khasi

English · A meaningful name

Kharri

American · free man

Khayri

Arabic · goodness; benevolence

Khmari

American · Unclear, potentially a

Shari

English · A beloved name

Mhari

Scotland · Scottish Gaelic

Kmari

American · A beloved name

Chari

American · Free man

Common questions about the name Khari

What does the name Khari mean?

Khari means "Kingly or regal" — a name rooted in African 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 Khari?

Khari is currently ranked #828 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 Khari?

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

Is Khari a common or rare name?

Khari is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.

Is Khari more of a girl or boy name?

Khari is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.