Masai

Meaning of Masai

Masai (mah-SAH-ee) springs from the rhythmic cadence of Swahili and calls to mind the proud Maasai people who stride across the Kenyan and Tanzanian savannah in their bright red shúkà. That heritage lends the name a built-in sense of courage, community, and wide-open horizons—think lion-hearted warrior meets barefoot philosopher. In the United States it’s still refreshingly uncommon (fewer than 100 boys received the name in 2024), yet it’s been quietly padding up the popularity charts for decades like a stealthy cheetah—visible to those who look, but never part of the noisy pack. Parents who choose Masai often say they love its global flavor, its easy three-beat rhythm, and the way it feels both modern and timeless. If you’re searching for a name that whispers adventure while still fitting on a preschool cubby, Masai could be the perfect travel companion for your little explorer.