What does Akira mean and where does it come from?
The name Akira (あきら) is of Japanese origin and can be used for both boys and girls, although it is predominantly used for females in recent years. The name has a gentle sound, and its meanings are often associated with brightness or clarity, making it a popular choice for parents who wish for their
Cultural significance
Akira has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Japan-speaking communities, where it reflects values of bright, clear, or intelligent.
Peak popularity
Reached #706 in 2008 — currently #1022 in the US.
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Related Reading
Japan-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Akira?
Akira works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Akira Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Akira Rose
Floral · soft ending
Akira Mae
Sweet · timeless
Akira Claire
French influence · crisp
Akira Jane
Literary · strong
Akira Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Akira right now?
Rising fast — up 242 spots — currently #1022 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #1022 | 247 | ▲ up 242 · +31% births |
| 2022 | #1264 | 189 | ▼ down 73 · -7% births |
| 2021 | #1191 | 204 | ▼ down 36 · +1% births |
| 2020 | #1155 | 202 | ▼ down 129 · -22% births |
| 2015 | #1026 | 260 | ▼ down 188 · -19% births |
| 2010 | #838 | 320 | ▲ up 208 · +40% births |
| 2005 | #1046 | 228 | ▲ up 157 · +38% births |
| 2000 | #1203 | 165 | ▲ up 560 · +101% births |
| 1995 | #1763 | 82 | ▲ up 771 · +74% births |
| 1990 | #2534 | 47 | ▲ up 568 · +62% births |
| 1985 | #3102 | 29 | ▲ up 6137 · +383% births |
| 1980 | #9239 | 6 | ▼ down 2642 · -25% births |
| 1975 | #6597 | 8 | — |
The story of Akira
Akira is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 1973. With 8,404 total births recorded, Akira remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #6597 in 1975 to #1022 in 2023. Akira is used for both genders: 79% female and 21% male.
Names that peaked alongside Akira in 2008:
Akira by decade
Akira peaked in the 2000s. See all 2000s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1910s | 119 | |
| 1920s | 342 | |
| 1930s | 119 | |
| 1960s | 15 | |
| 1970s | 104 | |
| 1980s | 448 | |
| 1990s | 1,197 | |
| 2000s ★ | 2,990 | |
| 2010s | 2,823 | |
| 2020s | 247 | |
💎With 8,404 total births, Akira is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Akira?
What names sound and feel like Akira?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Akira also consider these
How is Akira written in other languages?
昭, 明, 亮, 晶, etc.
Japanese Kanji
Common questions about the name Akira
What does the name Akira mean?
Akira means "bright, clear, or intelligent" — a name rooted in Japan tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.
How popular is the name Akira?
Akira is currently a distinctive and less common name as a baby name in the US and is rapidly gaining popularity — searches for Akira have increased significantly in recent years.
What is the cultural origin of Akira?
Akira originates from Japan tradition. Japan names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
How do you pronounce the name Akira?
Akira is a three-syllable name pronounced AH0 K IY1 R AH0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
What sibling names go well with Akira?
Akira pairs beautifully with sibling names that share a similar Japan heritage or complement its melodic and flowing sound. Names with a similar vibe create a cohesive sibling set without matching too closely.