Omari

Omari is a masculine given name and, less commonly, a surname. It is used in various cultures, particularly among Swahili-speaking populations in East Africa and among people of African descent in the Caribbean and North America. The name is generally regarded as a Swahili- or Arabic-derived form of Omar/Umar, a traditional Arabic given name that appears in many Muslim communities. In Swahili contexts, Omari is common, sometimes understood as an adaptation of Omar. The exact meaning of Omari can reflect the broader Arabic root, often associated with life, flourishing, or longevity, but interpretations may vary by family and language.

In terms of pronunciation, Omari is typically pronounced oh-MAH-ree or OH-mah-ree, with the first syllable stressed in most English usage. Regional variation exists.

Notable individuals with the given name include Omari Hardwick, an American actor born in 1974, known for his role on the series Power. The name has appeared in literature, film, and music across English-speaking and Swahili-speaking communities, reflecting its cross-cultural reach.

Variants and related names include Omar (Arabic form) and Omri (a related Hebrew name). Spelling variants such as Omary and Omari may appear in different communities.