All about the name PAPI

Meaning, origin, history.

Papi is a unique and distinctive given name of African origin. It is derived from the Congolese language, Lingala, where it means "father". The name Papi is traditionally used as a term of endearment or respect towards older men in the Congo region.

The name has been popularized worldwide due to its usage in popular culture, notably by the famous French singer and songwriter, Johnny Hallyday, who named his son Papi in 1983. Since then, the name has gained recognition and popularity beyond its African roots.

In many cultures, the name Papi is associated with warmth, wisdom, and strength, reflecting the traditional role of a father figure. However, it is essential to note that the meaning and significance of names can vary greatly depending on cultural context and individual experiences.

Today, Papi remains a unique and powerful name choice for parents seeking to honor African heritage or simply looking for an uncommon yet meaningful name for their child. Despite its unconventional spelling and pronunciation in some languages, Papi carries a strong and distinct identity that sets it apart from other names.

See also

Congo

Popularity of the name PAPI since 1880.

Number of births per year since 1880.

"In 2023 alone, five babies were named Papi."