What does Kage mean and where does it come from?
Kage (影) is a name of Japanese origin that translates directly to 'shadow.' The name is associated with stealth and mystery, often embodying qualities attributed to shadows. It has gained some popularity in Western countries due to anime and popular culture influences. It's not commonly used as a fi
Cultural significance
Kage has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Japanese-speaking communities, where it reflects values of shadow.
Peak popularity
Reached #1787 in 2009 — currently #3754 in the US.
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Related Reading
Japanese-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Kage?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Kage?
Kage works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Kage Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Kage Rose
Floral · soft ending
Kage Claire
French influence · crisp
Kage Jane
Literary · strong
Kage Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Kage right now?
Falling — down 316 spots — currently #3754 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #3754 | 30 | ▼ down 316 · -12% births |
| 2022 | #3438 | 34 | ▲ up 99 · +6% births |
| 2021 | #3537 | 32 | ▼ down 601 · -20% births |
| 2020 | #2936 | 40 | ▼ down 834 · -40% births |
| 2015 | #2102 | 67 | ▼ down 288 · -17% births |
| 2010 | #1814 | 81 | ▲ up 674 · +76% births |
| 2005 | #2488 | 46 | ▼ down 67 · +15% births |
| 2000 | #2421 | 40 | ▲ up 878 · +90% births |
| 1995 | #3299 | 21 | — |
The story of Kage
Kage is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 1992. With 1,395 total births recorded, Kage remains relatively uncommon. Once ranked #3299 in 1995, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #3754 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Kage in 2009:
Kage by decade
Kage peaked in the 2000s. See all 2000s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1990s | 137 | |
| 2000s | 503 | |
| 2010s ★ | 715 | |
| 2020s | 40 | |
💎With 1,395 total births, Kage is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Kage?
What names sound and feel like Kage?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Kage also consider these
Common questions about the name Kage
What does the name Kage mean?
Kage means "shadow" — 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 Kage?
Kage is currently a distinctive and less common name as a boy name in the US and is becoming rarer and more distinctive, making it a unique choice that stands out.
What is the cultural origin of Kage?
Kage 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.
How do you pronounce the name Kage?
Kage is a one-syllable name pronounced K EY1 JH. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
How does Kage sound with different last names?
As a one-syllable name, Kage flows best with last names of two or three syllables. Avoid last names ending in the same sound as Kage ends, as this can create an unwanted rhyme. Test by saying the full name out loud several times.