Miri

♀ Girl

Miri Pronunciation

Miri is pronounced MEE-ree /ˈmi.ri/High

Meaning: Short form of Miriam — the prophetess sister of Moses, whose name is linked to 'beloved' or 'sea of bitterness'Medium

In 30 seconds: Miriam, made tiny and warm: Miri pets the prophetess who watched over baby Moses and sang at the sea's parting. Two bright syllables of one of the oldest names alive.

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Origin HighHebrew

MeaningShort form of Miriam — the prophetess sister of Moses, whose name is linked to 'beloved' or 'sea of bitterness'

U.S. rank (2024)#3613 ↘ Falling

2024 U.S. births43 girls (0.00% of U.S. girls)

Peak year2022

Total births (all-time)≈ 824

Popularity in the U.S. · SSA data

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

History & Origin

Miri is a short form of Miriam (Hebrew Miryam) — the prophetess and elder sister of Moses, her name variously read 'beloved', 'sea of bitterness', or 'rebellious'; the root behind Mary, Maria, and Maryam. The pet form thrives in Israel and Jewish communities.

It registers thinly in the U.S., a fresh-feeling short form of an ancient name. Rare, warm, and matriarch-rooted.

Did you know? Miriam watched the basket carrying baby Moses on the Nile, then led Israel's women in song after the sea split — the Bible's first named prophetess, and the root of every Mary.

Overall data confidence 82%

Behind the Name — Miriam — root etymology, debated

Variations

MiriamMirjamMira

Nicknames

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Famous Bearers

Famous bearers coming soon.

If you like Miri…

Miriam— the full name it shortens

Mira— the sister short form

Maya— a fellow vowel-bright favorite

Tali— the companion modern Hebrew pick

→ See all names like Miri

Browse the whole category: All Hebrew names → · All origins →

Frequently Asked

How do you pronounce Miri?

Miri is pronounced MEE-ree (/ˈmi.ri/). Press play above to hear Miri said aloud.

How do you say Miri?

Miri is said MEE-ree (/ˈmi.ri/). Press play above to hear Miri said aloud.

What does the name Miri mean?

Miri is a short form of Miriam — the prophetess sister of Moses — linked to 'beloved' or 'sea of bitterness'.

Is Miri a boy or girl name?

Miri is a girl's name.

How popular is Miri?

Miri is rare in the U.S., familiar in Israel and Jewish communities.