Kenji

“賢治 or 健二, meanings include 'intelligent second son' or 'healthy second son'”

Japan origin · Unisex name

♂ 99% boys♀ 1% girls

#789US 2023

1.4kBirths / yr

→Stable

4.2kAll-time births

📅 Since 197500

How to pronounce Kenji

KENJ·ee

/ˈkɛndʒ.iː/ · stress on KENJ · 2 syllables

“賢治 or 健二, meanings include 'intelligent second son' or 'healthy second son'”

Japan origin · Unisex name

What does Kenji mean and where does it come from?

Kenji is a common name in Japan, and while it is typically male, it has seen some usage for females as well. The name can be composed with various kanji characters, resulting in different meanings. Kenji has a long history in Japanese culture, with historical records of the name stretching back cent

Cultural significance

Kenji has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Japan-speaking communities, where it reflects values of 賢治 or 健二, meanings include 'intelligent second son' or 'healthy second son'.

Peak popularity

Reached #7528 in 1980 — currently #789 in the US.

🌿

What middle names flow best with Kenji?

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

Kenji Grace

How popular is Kenji right now?

Holding steady — currently #789 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names

US Trend 1975–2023#789 · Top 0.58%

1975

1980

2021

2022

2023

Year	US Rank	Births	vs Prior Year
2023	#789	1,411	▲ up 5 · +1% births
2022	#794	1,391	▲ up 5 · +2% births
2021	#799	1,361	▲ up 6729 · +16913% births
1980	#7528	8	▲ up 617 · +33% births
1975	#8145	6	—

Name Popularity Timeline

Popularity Statistics for Kenji

Best Year2023Rank #789

Peak Count1,411

Average Rank#3611

Current Trend→Stable

Data Range1975 - 20235 years

The story of Kenji

Kenji is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 1975. With 4,207 total births recorded, Kenji remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #8145 in 1975 to #789 in 2023. Kenji is used for both genders: 1% female and 99% male.

Names that peaked alongside Kenji in 1980:

Jennifer Amanda Jessica Melissa Sarah

Kenji by decade

Kenji peaked in the 1980s. See all 1980s names →

Decade	Births
1910s	85
1920s	213
1930s	96
1940s	23
1950s	18
1960s	104
1970s	443
1980s	367
1990s	423
2000s	901
2010s ★	1,289
2020s	245

💎With 4,207 total births, Kenji is an uncommon but established name.

What are good nicknames for Kenji?

Common

KenKe

What names sound and feel like Kenji?

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

Kenyi

Japan · 賢い

Kengi

Japan · 元気な (genki na)

American · son of the

Renji

Japanese · love and second

Genji

Japanese · Japanese

How is Kenji written in other languages?

研二, etc.

Japanese Kanji

Common questions about the name Kenji

What does the name Kenji mean?

Kenji means "賢治 or 健二, meanings include 'intelligent second son' or 'healthy second son'" — 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 Kenji?

Kenji is currently ranked #789 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 Kenji?

Kenji 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 Kenji?

Kenji is a two-syllable name pronounced K EH1 N JH IY0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.

Is Kenji more of a girl or boy name?

Kenji is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.