The name Amari has its origins in the Yoruba language, spoken by the Yoruba people of West Africa, primarily in present-day Nigeria. Amari is derived from the Yoruba word "amure," which means "grace" or "virtue." The name has been in use for centuries, though its precise origin and initial usage are difficult to pinpoint due to the oral tradition of the Yoruba culture.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name can be found in the Ifa corpus, a collection of Yoruba spiritual and literary texts. Amari is mentioned as a name bestowed upon a child born under certain auspicious circumstances, reflecting the name's positive connotations of grace and blessings.

Throughout history, several notable individuals have borne the name Amari. One of the earliest recorded figures was Amari Oba, a Yoruba ruler who reigned in the 16th century in the region now known as Benin City, Nigeria. He was renowned for his wisdom and fair governance.

In the 18th century, Amari Tukano was a celebrated Yoruba trader and diplomat who played a crucial role in facilitating trade relationships between the Yoruba kingdoms and European merchants along the West African coast.

During the 19th century, Amari Dada was a prominent Yoruba scholar and linguist who made significant contributions to the preservation and documentation of the Yoruba language and cultural traditions.

In the realm of art and literature, Amari Musa was a renowned Yoruba poet and playwright of the 20th century, recognized for his poignant works that explored themes of identity, tradition, and the human condition.

More recently, Amari Cooper, born in 1994, is an American football wide receiver who has played for teams like the Dallas Cowboys and the Oakland Raiders in the National Football League (NFL).

While the name Amari has its roots in the Yoruba culture, it has gained popularity across various regions and cultures, transcending its origins and carrying with it the positive connotations of grace and virtue.