Meaning, origin, history
Kari is a name of Finnish origin, derived from the word "kare" which means "rocky". It is traditionally given to boys in Finland, but it has also been used as a girls' name in some cases.
The name Kari has a long history in Finland. It was first used as a personal name in the late 19th century and became more popular in the early 20th century. Today, Kari is considered one of the classic Finnish male names and is still commonly used today.
Kari is also known for being the name of the protagonist in the popular Finnish novel "The Summer Book" by Tove Jansson. The character Kari is a young boy who experiences many adventures with his grandmother during one summer on an island in the Gulf of Finland. This book has contributed to the popularity of the name Kari in Finland and beyond.
In terms of its meaning, Kari represents strength, stability, and resilience, much like the rocky terrain from which it is derived. It is also associated with Finnish culture and heritage. Overall, Kari is a name with deep roots in Finnish history and a unique character all its own.
In numbers
Popularity of the name Kari since 1880
Total births
59,497
Total since 1880
Peak year
1975
2,221 births
in 2023
116
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
+41%
↗
vs previous 5 years