The name Tami is believed to have its origins in the Japanese language, where it is a diminutive form of the name Tamiko. Tamiko itself is derived from the Japanese words "tami," meaning "people," and "ko," meaning "child."

According to historical records, the name Tami first appeared in Japan during the Heian period (794-1185 CE). It was a popular name among the Japanese nobility and aristocracy during this time. The earliest recorded example of the name Tami can be found in the Pillow Book, a collection of observations and anecdotes written by the 11th-century Japanese court lady Sei Shōnagon.

In the 12th century, the name Tami gained popularity in other parts of East Asia, particularly in Korea and China, where it was adopted as a variation of the Japanese name Tamiko. It is believed that the name spread to these regions through cultural exchanges and trade between the countries.

Throughout history, there have been several notable individuals who bore the name Tami. One of the earliest was Tami no Miko, a Japanese princess who lived in the 7th century CE and was known for her patronage of Buddhism. Another famous bearer of the name was Tami Yuki, a 16th-century Japanese poet and calligrapher who was renowned for her mastery of the tanka form of poetry.

In more recent times, the name Tami has been associated with several accomplished women. Tami Stronach, an American actress born in 1972, is best known for her role as the Childlike Empress in the 1988 film "The NeverEnding Story." Tami Chynn, born in 1974, is an American actress and model who has appeared in various television shows and films.

Another notable bearer of the name is Tami Roman, an American reality television personality and actress born in 1970. She is best known for her appearances on the reality shows "Basketball Wives" and "The Real World: Los Angeles." Tami Reiker, born in 1959, is an American author and screenwriter who has written several acclaimed novels and screenplays, including "The Opposite of Love."