Kari
Fact sheet
- Name
- Kari
- Gender
- Girl name
- Syllables
- 2
The first name Kari, which is female, represents a Scandinavian variant of Katharina and has its roots in the ancient Greek name Aikaterine (Αἰκατερίνη). Figuratively, this name means 'the Pure.'
What does the name Kari mean?
Kari is a Scandinavian form of the name Katharina, which in turn traces back to the ancient Greek name Aikaterine (Αἰκατερίνη). Figuratively, the name means 'the Pure.' The etymological roots lie in the ancient Greek word katharós (καθαρός), which means 'pure,' 'clean,' 'unstained,' and 'unblemished.' In Switzerland, the male name Kari is also used as a diminutive for Karl. In Finland, Kari serves as a short form of the names Anskari, Makari, and Oskari. Furthermore, the spelling Kári means 'the Curly,' derived from the Old Norse word kárr for 'curled,' 'curly,' and 'bent.' In Japan, Kari is a diminutive of Hikari and stands for 'light,' while in Persia it is interpreted as 'especially bright light.' In Albanian, Kari refers to the male genitalia.
Where does the name Kari come from?
The name Kari has its origins in ancient Greek and is used for both females and males. The meaning is 'the Pure.'
How do you pronounce Kari?
The pronunciation of Kari is two syllables and has a bright sound. In the German language, it is usually pronounced as 'Ka-ri' [ˈkaːʁi], where the first syllable 'Ka' is long and open, radiating presence. The second syllable '-ri' brings lightness to the sound with the bright 'i.' The soft 'r' gently connects the two syllables. As a result, Kari appears clear and friendly – simple in structure and harmonious in overall sound.
When is the name day of Kari?
The name days for Kari are celebrated on March 24, April 29, November 25, and December 31.
Popularity
In Germany, Kari is a common first name and currently ranks 4,045th on the list of most popular female baby names. Its best placement was in 2009 at rank 971. In the last ten years, Kari has been chosen as a first name about 70 times, placing it 2,941st in the ten-year statistics. Between 2010 and 2024, it ranks 3,030th.
Nicknames & pet names
Kiri
Similar first names
Famous people
- Abd Al-Kari m Ibn Hawazin Al-Qushayri (philosopher from Iran)
- Aud Kari Berg (Norwegian cyclist)
- Kari Aalvik Grimsbo (Norwegian handball player)
- Kari Aartoma (Finnish poet)
- Kari Arnason (football player from Sweden)
- Kari Berg (actress from Sweden)
- Kari Bremnes (Norwegian singer)
- Kari Buen (Croatian sculptor)
- Kari Byron (American sculptor)
- Kari Enqvist (Finnish writer)
- Kari Erickson (American curler)
- Kari Erlhoff (German writer)
- Kari Haakana (Finnish ice hockey player)
- Kari Harila (Finnish ice hockey player)
- Kari Härkönen (Finnish skier)
- Kari Hawker (American actress)
- Kari Heinonen (Finnish ski jumper)
- Kari Hietalahti (actor from Finland)
- Kari Hotakainen (writer from Finland)
- Kari Jalonen (ice hockey player from Finland)
Frequently asked questions about the name Kari
What does the name Kari mean?
The name Kari figuratively means 'the Pure' and has its roots in the ancient Greek word katharós, which means 'pure' or 'unstained.'
In which countries is the name Kari used?
Kari is used in several languages, including Finnish, Japanese, Norwegian, and Swedish, underscoring its international popularity.
Are there suitable nicknames for Kari?
A common nickname for Kari is Kiri, which is a loving and shortened form of the name.
How is the name Kari pronounced?
Kari is typically pronounced as 'Kah-ree,' with the emphasis on the first syllable.