How to say it
AR · i
/ˈɑːr.i/
Masculine
Ari
Lion
What it means
Hebrew for 'lion'; also a short form of Ariel, Aria, or Aristotle.
Ari is the Hebrew word for 'lion,' a symbol of strength and courage, and a common Israeli name on its own. It doubles as the breezy short for Ariel, Arie, Aria, or even Aristotle, which has helped it spread in English use, with bearers like filmmaker Ari Aster. Short, warm, and a little leonine. It leans male but is used across the board.
Popularity over time
peaked at #328 in 2022, currently #393 in 2025.
Source: U.S. Social Security Administration, names given to at least 5 babies in a year, 1880–present. See where the names are moving
Heads-up notes
- Nickname
Stands alone or shortens Ariel, Aria, or Aristotle.
- Worth knowing
Hebrew 'lion'; a common standalone name in Israel.
Who's worn it
Historical figures, characters, and public faces who share the name. The cultural surface, for whatever weight you want to give it.
- Ari Aster American filmmaker (Hereditary, Midsommar)
Spelling variants
- Arie
- Aari
- Arel