Kao

“Nine or long-lasting.” — Represent 'nine' or can suggest persistence and longevity

China origin · Unisex name

♂ 65% boys♀ 35% girls

#814US 2023

1.4kBirths / yr

→Stable

706All-time births

📅 Since 198000

How to pronounce Kao

KOW

/ˈkaʊ/ · stress on KOW · 2 syllables

“Nine or long-lasting.”

Represent 'nine' or can suggest persistence and longevity · China origin

What does Kao mean and where does it come from?

Kao is a name with multiple meanings in different cultures. In Chinese, 'Kao' (考) can represent 'nine' or can suggest persistence and longevity. In Thai, it translates to 'white' (ขาว), symbolizing purity or clarity. This name is quite versatile and can be used for both genders, although it leans mo

Cultural significance

Kao has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in China-speaking communities, where it reflects values of nine or long-lasting..

Peak popularity

Reached #4311 in 1991 — currently #814 in the US.

🌿

What middle names flow best with Kao?

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

Kao Grace

How popular is Kao right now?

Holding steady — currently #814 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names

US Trend 1980–2023#814 · Top 0.60%

1980

1985

1990

1995

2000

2021

2022

2023

Year	US Rank	Births	vs Prior Year
2023	#814	1,386	▲ up 5 · +1% births
2022	#819	1,366	▲ up 5 · +2% births
2021	#824	1,336	▲ up 13054 · +22167% births
2000	#13878	6	▼ down 7711 · -60% births
1995	#6167	15	▼ down 661 · -12% births
1990	#5506	17	▲ up 136 · +31% births
1985	#5642	13	▲ up 1753 · +44% births
1980	#7395	9	—

Name Popularity Timeline

Popularity Statistics for Kao

Best Year2023Rank #814

Peak Count1,386

Average Rank#5131

Current Trend↗Rising

Data Range1980 - 20238 years

The story of Kao

Kao is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 1980. With 706 total births recorded, Kao remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #7395 in 1980 to #814 in 2023. Kao is used for both genders: 35% female and 65% male.

Names that peaked alongside Kao in 1991:

Ashley Jessica Brittany Amanda Samantha

Kao by decade

Kao peaked in the 1990s. See all 1990s names →

Decade	Births
1980s ★	364
1990s	261
2000s	22
2010s	54
2020s	5

💎Kao has only 706 total recorded births since 1980 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.

What are good nicknames for Kao?

Common

KaieKay

What names sound and feel like Kao?

Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Kao also consider these

Dao

China · Chinese

Lao

China · 老 (Lǎo) meaning

China · good; hold; contain;

Common questions about the name Kao

What does the name Kao mean?

Kao means "Nine or long-lasting." — a name rooted in China 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 Kao?

Kao is currently ranked #814 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 Kao?

Kao originates from China tradition. China 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 Kao?

Kao is a two-syllable name pronounced K AW1. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.

Is Kao a common or rare name?

Kao is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.