“ray of light” — Symbolizes brightness and radiance
India origin · Unisex name
♂ 58% boys♀ 42% girls
#1597US 2023
109Births / yr
↑Rising
4.3kAll-time births
📅 Since 196600
How to pronounce Kiran
KEE·RAN
/ˈkiː.ˈræn/ · stress on KEE · 2 syllables
“ray of light”
Symbolizes brightness and radiance · India origin
What does Kiran mean and where does it come from?
Kiran (किरण) is a name of Indian origin commonly given to females and may also be unisex. Derived from the Sanskrit word 'kiran', which means 'ray of light' or 'sunbeam', it is widely used in Hindi-speaking communities as well. The name symbolizes brightness and radiance. Kiran is frequently seen ac
Cultural significance
Kiran has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in India-speaking communities, where it reflects values of ray of light.
Peak popularity
Reached #2166 in 2002 — currently #1597 in the US.
Rising — up 20 spots — currently #1597 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
US Trend 1970–2023#1597 · Top 1.2%
1970
1975
1980
1985
1990
1995
2000
2005
2010
2015
2020
2021
2022
2023
Year
US Rank
Births
vs Prior Year
2023
#1597
109
▲ up 20 · +1% births
2022
#1617
108
▼ down 109 · -8% births
2021
#1508
118
▲ up 6963 · +883% births
2020
#8471
12
▼ down 4050 · -62% births
2015
#4421
32
▼ down 511 · -18% births
2010
#3910
39
▼ down 1445 · -45% births
2005
#2465
71
▲ up 142 · +25% births
2000
#2607
57
▲ up 208 · +33% births
1995
#2815
43
▲ up 1051 · +59% births
1990
#3866
27
▲ up 368 · +42% births
1985
#4234
19
▼ down 549 · -14% births
1980
#3685
22
▼ down 548 · -4% births
1975
#3137
23
▲ up 2612 · +156% births
1970
#5749
9
—
Name Popularity Timeline
Popularity Statistics for Kiran
2021Rank #1508
118
#3577
↗Rising
1970 - 202314 years
The story of Kiran
Kiran is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 1966. With 4,345 total births recorded, Kiran remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #5749 in 1970 to #1597 in 2023. Kiran is used for both genders: 42% female and 58% male.
Kannada), కిరణ్ (Telugu), കിരൺ (Malayalam), கிரன் (Tamil), કિરણ (Gujarati), کرن (Urdu
Common questions about the name Kiran
What does the name Kiran mean?
Kiran means "ray of light" — a name rooted in India 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 Kiran?
Kiran is currently a distinctive and less common name as a baby name in the US and is rapidly gaining popularity — searches for Kiran have increased significantly in recent years.
What is the cultural origin of Kiran?
Kiran originates from India tradition. India 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 Kiran?
Kiran is a two-syllable name pronounced K IY1 R AE1 N. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Kiran trending right now?
Kiran is currently on the rise — it has gained significant momentum in recent years as parents discover its appeal.
Sibling names that pair with Kiran
For a sister
Kiran & Bodhi♡
Kiran & Anaya♡
Kiran & Ameisha♡
Kiran & Merali♡
For a brother
Kiran & Bodhi♡
Kiran & Aadian♡
Kiran & Prayas♡
Kiran & Chethan♡
Save your shortlist
Get your saved names emailed to you + weekly picks