Jabari

Meaning of Jabari

Jabari (juh-BAH-ree) traces its roots to Swahili, where it means “brave” or “fearless,” and the name still wears that meaning like a superhero’s cape. It first caught American ears during the Afrocentric naming wave of the 1970s and has hovered comfortably in the U.S. Top 1000 ever since, never too common but always within reach—much like a slam-dunk by NBA forward Jabari Parker, one of its best-known modern bearers. Parents who pick Jabari often say they’re drawn to its bold sound and uplifting message: it feels like handing a baby boy his own built-in pep talk. Story-loving families may also recognize it from the award-winning picture book “Jabari Jumps,” where a determined little diver embodies the name’s courageous spirit. With its spirited rhythm, positive meaning, and steady popularity, Jabari offers a warm nod to African heritage while fitting smoothly into English-speaking conversation—an appealing blend of history, heart, and everyday heroism.