Taraji

“hope” — Associated with the meaning of hope

American origin · Unisex name

♂ 2% boys♀ 98% girls

#788US 2023

1.4kBirths / yr

→Stable

2.6kAll-time births

📅 Since 200200.02% of births at peak

How to pronounce Taraji

TAH·ruj·EE

/ˈtɑ.rədʒ.ˈiː/ · stress on TAH · 3 syllables

“hope”

Associated with the meaning of hope · American origin

What does Taraji mean and where does it come from?

The name Taraji is of African origin, particularly from the Swahili language. It gained popularity in the late 20th century and is associated with the meaning of hope. Taraji P. Henson, an acclaimed American actress known for her roles in 'Empire' and 'Hidden Figures', has contributed to the name's

Cultural significance

Taraji has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in American-speaking communities, where it reflects values of hope.

Peak popularity

Reached #680 in 2010 — currently #788 in the US.

🌿

What middle names flow best with Taraji?

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

Taraji Grace

How popular is Taraji right now?

Holding steady — currently #788 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names

US Trend 2005–2023#788 · Top 0.58%

2005

2010

2015

2020

2021

2022

2023

Year	US Rank	Births	vs Prior Year
2023	#788	1,412	▲ up 5 · +1% births
2022	#793	1,392	▲ up 5 · +2% births
2021	#798	1,362	▲ up 1923 · +2133% births
2020	#2721	61	▼ down 1605 · -73% births
2015	#1116	230	▼ down 436 · -46% births
2010	#680	423	▲ up 13530 · +5943% births
2005	#14210	7	—

Name Popularity Timeline

Popularity Statistics for Taraji

Best Year2010Rank #680

Peak Count1,412

Average Rank#3015

Current Trend↗Rising

Data Range2005 - 20237 years

The story of Taraji

Taraji is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 2002. With 2,639 total births recorded, Taraji remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #14210 in 2005 to #788 in 2023. Taraji is used for both genders: 98% female and 2% male.

Names that peaked alongside Taraji in 2010:

Isabella Sophia Emma Olivia Ava

Taraji by decade

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

Decade	Births
2000s	432
2010s ★	2,146
2020s	61

💎With 2,639 total births, Taraji is an uncommon but established name.

What are good nicknames for Taraji?

Common

TarTarieTaryAji

What names sound and feel like Taraji?

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

Tarahji

American · one who brings

Tarajai

American · A unique and

Saraji

Japan · Meaning can vary;

Tyraji

American · A name derived

Tarji

Finland · Finnish

Faraji

Swahili-speaking regions · consolation

Tayani

American · Open to all,

Tahari

American · One who is

Common questions about the name Taraji

What does the name Taraji mean?

Taraji means "hope" — a name rooted in American 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 Taraji?

Taraji is currently ranked #788 as a baby name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.

What is the cultural origin of Taraji?

Taraji originates from American tradition. American 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 Taraji?

Taraji is a three-syllable name pronounced T AA1 R AH0 JH IY1. 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 Taraji?

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