IPA Pronunciation

/bəˈhɑːri/

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Syllables

Bahari is derived from the Swahili word meaning 'ocean' or 'sea.' The name reflects qualities of vastness, depth, and serenity, drawing on the cultural significance of the sea in East African coastal communities, where the ocean represents life, travel, and mystery. Historically, the sea was central to trade and cultural exchange in the Swahili coast, embedding Bahari with a rich maritime heritage.

Cultural Significance of Bahari

In Swahili culture, Bahari symbolizes the ocean, a vital element for the coastal communities of East Africa. The ocean represents not only a source of livelihood through fishing and trade but also a connection to other cultures, symbolizing openness and adventure. Historically, Swahili sailors and traders navigated vast seas, and the name Bahari honors this rich maritime tradition as well as the natural beauty and power of the ocean.

Bahari Name Popularity in 2025

Today, Bahari is embraced by parents seeking a unique, meaningful name with a global yet culturally rooted feel. It appeals to those who appreciate nature-inspired names and names with multicultural resonance. While still relatively uncommon outside East Africa, Bahari's melodic sound and oceanic meaning have gained some popularity in diverse urban communities fascinated with African heritage and nature names.

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Popular Nicknames10

BahaHariBahBarryHari-BBariBah-BahAriH-BBahi
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International Variations8

BaharyBahariyBahareeBaharryBahareBahareyBaharryeBaharryi

Similar Names You Might Love4

Name Energy & Essence

The name Bahari carries the essence of “Ocean or sea” from Swahili tradition. Names beginning with "B" often embody qualities of stability, nurturing, and groundedness.

Symbolism

Cultural Significance

In Swahili culture, Bahari symbolizes the ocean, a vital element for the coastal communities of East Africa. The ocean represents not only a source of livelihood through fishing and trade but also a connection to other cultures, symbolizing openness and adventure. Historically, Swahili sailors and traders navigated vast seas, and the name Bahari honors this rich maritime tradition as well as the natural beauty and power of the ocean.

Bahari Bin Suleiman

A 19th-century Swahili maritime trader known for his extensive voyages along the East African coast and Indian Ocean trade routes.

Bahari al-Mazrui

A notable Swahili scholar and navigator who contributed to the understanding of ocean currents in the Indian Ocean during the 17th century.

Bahari Jumbe

An influential coastal chieftain who ruled parts of the Swahili coast and promoted maritime commerce in the early 18th century.

Bahari Mwinyi

An East African cultural historian who documented maritime traditions in the 20th century.

Bahari Said

A 19th-century Swahili poet whose works celebrated the beauty of the ocean and coastal life.

Bahari Mussa

Swahili cartographer known for mapping coastal trade routes in the 18th century.

Bahari Nuru

An early 20th-century Swahili storyteller whose tales often involved the sea and maritime adventures.

Bahari Zuberi

A Swahili diplomat in the late 19th century who facilitated trade agreements across the Indian Ocean basin.

Bahari

🌐Spanish

Bahari

🌐French

Bahari

🌐German

Bahari

🌐Italian

バハリ

🌐Japanese

巴哈里

🌐Chinese

بحري

🌐Arabic

Fun Fact About Bahari

The name Bahari means 'ocean' in Swahili, a language spoken by millions along the East African coast, reflecting its deep connection to maritime culture and history.

Personality Traits for Bahari

Individuals named Bahari are often associated with qualities like calmness, depth, and strength, mirroring the vast ocean’s characteristics. They may be seen as adventurous, open-minded, and resilient, with a natural curiosity about the world. Bahari personalities tend to exhibit a peaceful demeanor but also possess an inner strength and determination to navigate life's challenges.

What does the name Bahari mean?

Bahari is a Swahili name meaning “Ocean or sea”. Bahari is derived from the Swahili word meaning 'ocean' or 'sea.' The name reflects qualities of vastness, depth, and serenity, drawing on the cultural significance of the sea in East African coastal communities, where the ocean represents life, travel, and mystery. Historically, the sea was central to trade and cultural exchange in the Swahili coast, embedding Bahari with a rich maritime heritage.

How do you pronounce Bahari?

Bahari is pronounced (IPA: /bəˈhɑːri/). It has 2 syllables with the pattern N/A.

What are nicknames for Bahari?

Popular nicknames for Bahari include: Baha, Hari, Bah, Barry, Hari-B, Bari, Bah-Bah, Ari, H-B, Bahi.

Who are famous people named Bahari?

Famous people named Bahari include: , , , , .