What does Kasai mean and where does it come from?
Kasai can be a name of Japanese origin meaning 'river' (川), and it denotes a connection to water and nature. In some African cultures, specifically in Swahili-speaking regions, it may also be interpreted as 'from the water'. The name has various associations in both cultures and is often used in poe
Cultural significance
Kasai has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Japan-speaking communities, where it reflects values of river.
Peak popularity
Reached #14494 in 2019 — currently #2232 in the US.
🌿
Related Reading
Japan-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Kasai?
Kasai works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Kasai Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Kasai Rose
Floral · soft ending
Kasai Mae
Sweet · timeless
Kasai Claire
French influence · crisp
Kasai Jane
Literary · strong
Kasai Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Kasai right now?
Rising fast — up 219 spots — currently #2232 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #2232 | 64 | ▲ up 219 · +12% births |
| 2022 | #2451 | 57 | ▲ up 343 · +27% births |
| 2021 | #2794 | 45 | — |
The story of Kasai
Kasai is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 2019. With 371 total births recorded, Kasai remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #2794 in 2021 to #2232 in 2023. Kasai is used for both genders: 2% female and 98% male.
Names that peaked alongside Kasai in 2019:
Kasai by decade
Kasai peaked in the 2010s. See all 2010s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1990s | 12 | |
| 2000s | 97 | |
| 2010s ★ | 210 | |
| 2020s | 52 | |
💎Kasai has only 371 total recorded births since 2019 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.
What are good nicknames for Kasai?
What names sound and feel like Kasai?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Kasai also consider these
Common questions about the name Kasai
What does the name Kasai mean?
Kasai means "river" — 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 Kasai?
Kasai is currently a distinctive and less common name as a baby 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 Kasai?
Kasai 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.
Is Kasai a common or rare name?
Kasai is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.
Is Kasai more of a girl or boy name?
Kasai is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.