Anko

red bean
Japanese origin · Unisex name
50% boys50% girls
#1510US 2023
10Births / yr
Stable
Top 1.1%Percentile

What does Anko mean and where does it come from?

Anko is derived from the Japanese word for a sweet red bean paste used in various traditional desserts.

Cultural significance
In Japan, anko is a common ingredient in sweets like mochi and dorayaki, reflecting its cultural importance in cuisine.
Peak popularity
Reached #1510 in 2015 — currently #1510 in the US.
🌿
Related Reading
Japanese-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →

How else can you spell Anko?

Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive

What middle names flow best with Anko?

Anko works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful

Anko Jack
One syllable · timeless choice
Anko John
One syllable · timeless choice
Anko Miles
One syllable · vintage charm
Anko Leah
One syllable · timeless choice
Anko Brooks
One syllable · timeless choice
Anko Gael
One syllable · timeless choice
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Middle Names
The best middle names for Anko
Browse ideas →

How popular is Anko right now?

Holding steady — currently #1510 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names

US Trend 20192023#1510 · Top 1.1%
2019
2020
2021
2022
2023
YearUS RankBirthsvs Prior Year
2023#151010stable
2022#151010stable
2021#151010stable
2020#151010stable
2019#151010
💎Anko is exceptionally rare — it does not appear in US Social Security records, meaning fewer than 5 babies per year have received this name.

Common questions about the name Anko

What does the name Anko mean?
Anko means "red bean" — a name rooted in Japanese 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 Anko?
Anko is currently a distinctive and less common name as a baby name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Anko?
Anko originates from Japanese tradition. Japanese names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
Is Anko a common or rare name?
Anko is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.
Is Anko more of a girl or boy name?
Anko is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.