Amiri
Amiri is a boy name of Arabic origin meaning “Princely, of the commander”, pronounced ah-MEER-ee. It ranked #604 in the United States in 2025, given to 472 babies, and peaked at #506 in 2023. Common nicknames: Ami, Miri, Mir.
How popular is Amiri in the United States?
Data: U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA). Based on all Social Security card applications for births in the United States.
What does Amiri mean, and where does it come from?
Amiri is the adjectival form of the Arabic amir — commander or prince — the same word behind emir and admiral, and it means something like "princely" or "belonging to the ruler." It is used as a given name across Arabic-speaking and Swahili-speaking communities, and it entered African American naming through the poet and playwright Amiri Baraka, who took the name in 1968 as part of a wider turn toward Arabic and African names. That history gives it a particular weight in the United States, where it climbed through the 2010s alongside Amari, its softer-sounding cousin, and reached the top thousand in 2021.
Variations & Nicknames
Variations
Nicknames
Famous People Named Amiri
- Amiri Baraka — American poet, playwright and critic, a founder of the Black Arts Movement
Similar Names to Amiri
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Sibling Name Ideas for Amiri
Looking for names that pair well with Amiri? Here are some sibling name suggestions that share a similar style and feel.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the name Amiri mean?
Amiri is a boy name of Arabic origin meaning "Princely, of the commander." Amiri is the adjectival form of the Arabic amir — commander or prince — the same word behind emir and admiral, and it means something like "princely" or "belonging to the ruler." It is used as a given name across Arabic-speaking and Swahili-speaking communities, and it entered African American naming through the poet and playwright Amiri Baraka, who took the name in 1968 as part of a wider turn toward Arabic and African names.
How do you pronounce Amiri?
Amiri is pronounced ah-MEER-ee. Common variations include Amari, Ameeri, Emir.
Is Amiri a boy name?
Yes, Amiri is traditionally a boy name. Popular nicknames include Ami, Miri, Mir.