Find out how popular the first name Nami has been for the last 41 years (from 1983 to 2023) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Nami by gender

Based on the last 41 years of data, Nami is more commonly used as a female name, with approximately 99% of people named Nami being female.

For the most recent data in 2023, there were 137 female babies and 7 male babies born with the name Nami.

Yes—according to the SSA data, 7 baby boys were named Nami in 2023, despite it being a predominantly female name. We'd love to know why!

The history of the first name Nami

Nami is a name with origins that can be traced back to various cultures and languages. One of the earliest recorded uses of the name comes from Japan, where it is a feminine name derived from the Japanese word "nami," meaning "wave." This name likely originated during the ancient times of Japan, reflecting the island nation's close connection to the ocean and its appreciation for natural elements.

In Japanese mythology, Nami is also the name of a kami, or Shinto deity, associated with waves and the sea. This connection to the divine further solidifies the name's reverence in Japanese culture and its symbolic ties to the power and beauty of the ocean.

Beyond Japan, the name Nami has also been used in various forms across different cultures and languages. In Arabic, the name "Nami" can mean "growth" or "development," while in Persian, it can translate to "letter" or "message." These diverse meanings reflect the name's versatility and its ability to resonate with different cultural contexts.

Throughout history, several notable individuals have borne the name Nami. One of the earliest recorded examples is Nami Nari, a Japanese sculptor and artist who lived during the Heian period (794-1185 CE). Her intricate wood carvings and Buddhist statues are celebrated as masterpieces of Japanese art.

Another prominent figure was Nami Iwata (1897-1945), a Japanese activist and social reformer who fought for women's rights and labor reforms in the early 20th century. Her advocacy played a crucial role in improving working conditions and advancing gender equality in Japan.

In the realm of literature, Nami Nami-no Mikoto is a legendary figure from the ancient Japanese text Kojiki, one of the oldest chronicles of Japanese history and mythology. She is depicted as a kami, or deity, associated with the sea and waves.

Moving to more recent times, Nami Matsushima (born 1973) is a Japanese actress and singer who has gained popularity for her roles in television dramas and films. Her talent and versatility have made her a celebrated figure in Japanese entertainment.

Finally, Nami Tamaki (born 1976) is a Japanese singer and actress who rose to fame as a member of the popular J-pop group Speed. Her successful solo career and philanthropic efforts have earned her recognition and admiration both in Japan and internationally.

These examples showcase the diverse backgrounds and achievements of individuals who have carried the name Nami throughout history, highlighting its enduring presence and cultural significance across various regions and time periods.

Data source

The first name data used on this page comes from the Social Security Administration (SSA). They've been collecting data on baby names since 1880.

The history and meaning of the name Nami was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

If you have a correction or suggestion to improve the history of Nami, please contact us.

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