Amani

♂ Boy

Pronounced ah-MAH-nee /ɑːˈmɑː.niː/Low

Meaning: Peace, tranquility, aspirationsLow

In 30 seconds: Amani means peace in Swahili and is one of the seven Nguzo Saba (Seven Principles) of Kwanzaa. It also means aspirations or hopes in Arabic. A name of profound beauty used across East Africa and in diaspora communities worldwide.

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Origin LowSwahili, Arabic

MeaningPeace, tranquility, aspirations

U.S. rank (2024)#1272 ↗ Rising

2024 U.S. births154 boys (0.01% of U.S. boys)

Peak year2024

Total births (all-time)≈ 2,779

Popularity in the U.S. · SSA data

U.S. births per year (Social Security Administration, 1880–present). Pink marker = peak year.

History & Origin

Amani is a Swahili word meaning peace, one of the seven principles of Kwanzaa. In Arabic, amani means hopes or aspirations. The name has been used across East Africa and has been embraced by African American families as both a Swahili peace name and a Kwanzaa principle.

Amani is used for both boys and girls in East African contexts and in African American communities. Its three syllables flow beautifully and the meaning of peace carries universal positive appeal.

Did you know? Amani (Peace) is the sixth principle of Kwanzaa, the African American cultural celebration, making this name deeply significant for families who observe this tradition of African cultural reconnection and community values.

Overall data confidence 90%

Behind the Name: Amani

Variations

AmaanAmaneAman

Nicknames

AmiMani

Famous Bearers

★Amani (1980-present)
Kenyan singer-songwriter (Cecilia Wairimu), winner of Best Female at the 2009 MTV Africa Music Awards

If you like Amani…

Jabari— Swahili brave name of same East African tradition

Sekani— African name of same heritage

Omari— Swahili/Arabic name of same cultural depth

Malaki— Hebrew/Arabic name of same three-syllable feel

Frequently Asked

What does Amani mean?

Amani means peace in Swahili and is also the sixth principle of Kwanzaa. In Arabic it means hopes or aspirations.

Is Amani a Kwanzaa name?

Yes, Amani (Peace) is the sixth of the seven principles of Kwanzaa.

How do you pronounce Amani?

Amani is pronounced ah-MAH-nee with three syllables.

What names are similar to Amani?

Similar names include Jabari, Omari, and Sekani.