Altar or prayer
Arai is a rare name most commonly associated with the Latin word 'ara', meaning altar. In some contexts, it is also linked to Japanese origins where it can mean 'new residence' or 'wild well' depending on the kanji used. As a feminine given name in the West, it is often chosen for its melodic, vowel-heavy sound and spiritual undertones.
Less common today
Arai isn't in the latest US Top 1000. It last peaked at #10,750 in 2024.
US births per 5-year period, 1990βpresent (SSA data).