What does Keno mean and where does it come from?
In Japanese, Keno (健夫) can be associated with meanings related to capability and strength, often given to boys to imbue them with these qualities. Keno is also widely recognized in the United States as the name of a popular lottery-style gambling game. This dual significance gives the name a contemp
Cultural significance
Keno has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Japanese-speaking communities, where it reflects values of one who is capable.
Peak popularity
Reached #2102 in 1974 — currently #8002 in the US.
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Related Reading
Japanese-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Keno?
Keno works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Keno Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Keno Rose
Floral · soft ending
Keno Claire
French influence · crisp
Keno Jane
Literary · strong
Keno Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Keno right now?
Falling — down 2255 spots — currently #8002 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #8002 | 10 | ▼ down 2255 · -37% births |
| 2022 | #5747 | 16 | ▲ up 3534 · +100% births |
| 2021 | #9281 | 8 | ▼ down 501 |
| 2020 | #8780 | 8 | ▼ down 622 · -11% births |
| 2015 | #8158 | 9 | ▼ down 994 · -18% births |
| 2010 | #7164 | 11 | ▲ up 2141 · +57% births |
| 2005 | #9305 | 7 | ▼ down 2878 · -30% births |
| 2000 | #6427 | 10 | ▼ down 2304 · -33% births |
| 1995 | #4123 | 15 | ▲ up 2498 · +114% births |
| 1990 | #6621 | 7 | ▼ down 2129 · -22% births |
| 1985 | #4492 | 9 | ▼ down 204 |
| 1980 | #4288 | 9 | ▼ down 2183 · -59% births |
| 1975 | #2105 | 22 | ▲ up 3009 · +340% births |
| 1970 | #5114 | 5 | — |
The story of Keno
Keno entered American naming records in 1947 and has been in use for over 77 years. With 563 total births recorded, Keno remains relatively uncommon. Once ranked #5114 in 1970, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #8002 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Keno in 1974:
Keno by decade
Keno peaked in the 1970s. See all 1970s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1940s | 7 | |
| 1950s | 11 | |
| 1960s | 6 | |
| 1970s ★ | 155 | |
| 1980s | 87 | |
| 1990s | 114 | |
| 2000s | 92 | |
| 2010s | 83 | |
| 2020s | 8 | |
💎Keno has only 563 total recorded births since 1947 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.
What are good nicknames for Keno?
What names sound and feel like Keno?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Keno also consider these
Common questions about the name Keno
What does the name Keno mean?
Keno means "One who is capable" — 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 Keno?
Keno 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 Keno?
Keno 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 Keno?
Keno is a two-syllable name pronounced K IY1 N OW0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Keno a common or rare name?
Keno is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.