The name Ari has its origins in the Hebrew language and culture. It is a unisex name that can be used for both boys and girls. The meaning of the name is derived from the Hebrew word "אריה" (ariyeh), which means "lion." This name has been in use since ancient times, with its earliest recorded usage dating back to the Old Testament of the Bible.

In the Bible, Ari appears as a name for several individuals, including Ari, the son of Gad, mentioned in Numbers 26:17. Additionally, the name is found in the Book of Ezra, where it refers to one of the priests who returned to Jerusalem after the Babylonian exile.

Throughout history, there have been several notable individuals who bore the name Ari. One of the most famous was Ari Thorgilsson (1067-1148), an Icelandic scholar and priest who is considered the founder of the Benedictine order in Iceland. His writings, particularly the "Libellus Islandorum" (Little Book of Icelanders), provide valuable insights into the history and culture of medieval Iceland.

Another historically significant figure was Ari ben Jonah (c. 1200-c. 1271), a Spanish rabbi and grammarian who wrote extensively on the Hebrew language and biblical exegesis. His works, such as the "Sefer ha-Mikhlol" (Book of Completeness), had a profound influence on the study of Hebrew grammar and linguistics.

In more recent times, Ari Bezalel (1925-2019) was an Israeli artist and sculptor known for his monumental public works, including the iconic "Lighted Towers" in Jerusalem. His sculptures can be found in various cities across Israel and around the world.

Ari Vatanen (born 1952) is a Finnish former rally driver and politician who won the World Rally Championship in 1981. He later pursued a career in politics and served as a member of the European Parliament from 1999 to 2009.

Lastly, Ari Aster (born 1986) is an American filmmaker and screenwriter best known for his horror films "Hereditary" (2018) and "Midsommar" (2019), which received critical acclaim for their unique and unsettling narratives.