What does Kana mean and where does it come from?
Kana is a common given name in Japan, where it is often used for girls. The name can represent beautiful imagery, as it is associated with flowers in Japanese culture. It can also refer to the Kana script, which is integral to the Japanese writing system. Women named Kana are often viewed as delicat
Cultural significance
Kana has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Japan-speaking communities, where it reflects values of flower, a name that signifies beauty..
Peak popularity
Reached #4268 in 1995 — currently #938 in the US.
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Related Reading
Japan-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Kana?
Kana works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Kana Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Kana Rose
Floral · soft ending
Kana Claire
French influence · crisp
Kana Jane
Literary · strong
Kana Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Kana right now?
Holding steady — currently #938 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #938 | 1,262 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 2022 | #943 | 1,242 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 2021 | #948 | 1,212 | ▲ up 4069 · +4748% births |
| 2020 | #5017 | 25 | ▲ up 4579 · +127% births |
| 2015 | #9596 | 11 | ▼ down 1641 · -27% births |
| 2010 | #7955 | 15 | ▲ up 476 · +15% births |
| 2005 | #8431 | 13 | ▼ down 3071 · -38% births |
| 2000 | #5360 | 21 | ▼ down 1092 · -12% births |
| 1995 | #4268 | 24 | ▲ up 1980 · +71% births |
| 1990 | #6248 | 14 | ▼ down 1047 |
| 1985 | #5201 | 14 | ▲ up 4297 · +133% births |
| 1980 | #9498 | 6 | ▼ down 3278 · -33% births |
| 1975 | #6220 | 9 | ▲ up 1298 · +50% births |
| 1970 | #7518 | 6 | — |
The story of Kana
Kana entered American naming records in 1956 and has been in use for over 68 years. With 815 total births recorded, Kana remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #7518 in 1970 to #938 in 2023. Kana is used for both genders: 98% female and 2% male.
Names that peaked alongside Kana in 1995:
Kana by decade
Kana peaked in the 1990s. See all 1990s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1950s | 6 | |
| 1960s | 12 | |
| 1970s | 79 | |
| 1980s | 112 | |
| 1990s | 191 | |
| 2000s ★ | 227 | |
| 2010s | 163 | |
| 2020s | 25 | |
💎Kana has only 815 total recorded births since 1956 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.
What are good nicknames for Kana?
What names sound and feel like Kana?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Kana also consider these
Common questions about the name Kana
What does the name Kana mean?
Kana means "Flower, a name that signifies beauty." — 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 Kana?
Kana is currently ranked #938 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 Kana?
Kana 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 Kana?
Kana is a two-syllable name pronounced K AE1 N AH0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Kana a common or rare name?
Kana is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.