Hirai
“to fly”
Japanese origin · Unisex name
#1656US 2023
10Births / yr
→Stable
Top 1.2%Percentile
What does Hirai mean and where does it come from?
Hirai is derived from the Japanese verb 'hiraku', meaning 'to fly' or 'to open'.
Cultural significance
In Japan, Hirai can be used as both a given name and a surname, often associated with positive connotations of freedom and openness.
Peak popularity
Reached #1656 in 2015 — currently #1656 in the US.
How else can you spell Hirai?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Hirai?
Hirai works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Hirai Jack
One syllable · timeless choice
Hirai John
One syllable · timeless choice
Hirai Miles
One syllable · vintage charm
Hirai Leah
One syllable · timeless choice
Hirai Brooks
One syllable · timeless choice
Hirai Gael
One syllable · timeless choice
How popular is Hirai right now?
Holding steady — currently #1656 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
Hirai is exceptionally rare — it does not appear in US Social Security records, meaning fewer than 5 babies per year have received this name.
What are good nicknames for Hirai?
Common
HirHirieHiry
Famous people named Hirai
HK
Hirai Ken
A popular Japanese singer and songwriter known for his ballads.
HM
Hirai Miki
A Japanese professional wrestler known for her performances in women's wrestling.
What names sound and feel like Hirai?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Hirai also consider these
Common questions about the name Hirai
What does the name Hirai mean?
Hirai means "to fly" — 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 Hirai?
Hirai 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 Hirai?
Hirai 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 Hirai a common or rare name?
Hirai is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.
Is Hirai more of a girl or boy name?
Hirai is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.
Parents who viewed Hirai also looked at…
Based on what other parents saved alongside Hirai