Jaci

♀ Girl

Jaci Pronunciation

Jaci is pronounced JAY-see /ˈdʒeɪ.si/High

Meaning: From Tupi-Guaraní jaci meaning 'moon'; also functions as a short form of Jacinda (Greek: hyacinth flower) or Jacqueline (Hebrew: supplanter)Medium

In 30 seconds: A bright two-syllable name with a rare dual heritage: in Brazilian tradition it means 'moon' from Tupi-Guaraní, while in English it serves as a lively short form of Jacinda or Jacqueline.

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Origin MediumTupi-Guaraní, Hebrew, Greek

MeaningFrom Tupi-Guaraní jaci meaning 'moon'; also functions as a short form of Jacinda (Greek: hyacinth flower) or Jacqueline (Hebrew: supplanter)

U.S. rank (2024)#3185 ↘ Falling

2024 U.S. births50 girls (0.00% of U.S. girls)

Peak year2005

Total births (all-time)≈ 5,096

Popularity in the U.S. · SSA data

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

History & Origin

Jaci has two distinct origins. In Brazil and among indigenous Tupi-Guaraní speaking peoples, Jaci refers to the moon and is associated with the moon goddess in their cosmology. This makes Jaci one of a small number of indigenous South American names used as given names in the modern world. Separately, in English-speaking contexts, Jaci functions as a short form or phonetic respelling of Jacinda or Jacqueline.

In Brazil, Jaci gained wider use as a given name during the 20th century, particularly in regions with Tupi cultural heritage, and entered mainstream Brazilian naming practice. In the United States, Jaci appears as a given name primarily in communities with Brazilian heritage or as a creative spelling of Jacie/Jacey, a nickname form of Jacqueline. Former New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern (spelled differently) brought the Jaci sound to global attention.

Did you know? In Tupi-Guaraní mythology, Jaci (sometimes Iaci) is the moon goddess, a gentle deity who transforms into a human to find love — making this name carry a beautiful lunar mythological story.

Overall data confidence 80%

Dicionário Tupi-Guaraní — Meaning of jaci as moonBehind the Name — Jaci — Dual usage as Tupi name and Jacqueline diminutive

Variations

JacieJaceyJacyJacindaJacqueline

Nicknames

Jay

Themes & Styles

Short Celestial Indigenous Moon Tupi

Famous Bearers

Famous bearers coming soon.

If you like Jaci…

Jacqueline

Jacie— alternative spelling of the same standalone nickname

Luna— parallel celestial name meaning moon in Latin

Celeste

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Frequently Asked

How do you pronounce Jaci?

Jaci is pronounced JAY-see (/ˈdʒeɪ.si/). Press play above to hear Jaci said aloud.

How do you say Jaci?

Jaci is said JAY-see (/ˈdʒeɪ.si/). Press play above to hear Jaci said aloud.

What does the name Jaci mean?

Jaci means 'moon' in Tupi-Guaraní, referring to the moon goddess in indigenous Brazilian mythology. It also functions as a short form of Jacinda or Jacqueline.

Is Jaci a boy or girl name?

Jaci is used primarily as a girl's name.

How popular is Jaci?

Jaci is a rare name in the U.S., appearing in SSA records occasionally. It is more established in Brazil due to its indigenous cultural roots.