The name Tiari is believed to have originated from the Polynesian language family, specifically in the Tahitian or Maori cultures of the South Pacific islands. It is thought to be derived from the word "tiari," which means "flower" or "blossom" in these languages.

Many linguists trace the earliest recorded instances of the name Tiari to ancient Polynesian oral traditions and folklore, where it was often used as a symbolic name for girls, representing beauty, grace, and renewal. However, there are no definitive written records of the name's usage prior to the arrival of European explorers and missionaries in the region in the 17th and 18th centuries.

One of the earliest documented examples of the name Tiari can be found in the journals of the French explorer Louis-Antoine de Bougainville, who encountered it during his voyage to the Pacific in 1768. He noted that it was a common name given to girls in the Society Islands, which now form part of French Polynesia.

Throughout history, there have been several notable individuals who bore the name Tiari. In the late 18th century, Tiari Vehiatua was a prominent chief and leader of the Tahitian people during the period of European exploration and colonization. She played a significant role in negotiating with the French and ensuring the survival of her people's culture and traditions.

In the 19th century, Tiari Rere was a renowned Maori artist and weaver from New Zealand. She was celebrated for her intricate and beautiful woven cloaks, which were highly valued in Maori culture and are now considered national treasures.

Another notable figure was Tiari Tupaia, a Polynesian navigator and interpreter who accompanied the British explorer James Cook on his famous voyages in the late 18th century. Tupaia's knowledge of the Pacific islands and their languages was invaluable to Cook's expeditions, and he is considered a significant figure in the history of European exploration of the region.

In more recent times, Tiari Tutugoro was a respected Tahitian artist and sculptor in the 20th century, known for her depictions of traditional Polynesian themes and motifs in her works.

The name Tiari has also been used in various literary works and cultural representations, further solidifying its connection to the rich heritage and traditions of the Polynesian islands.