“桐 (kiri), meaning 'paulownia tree'” — Symbol of prosperity and growth
Japanese origin · Unisex name
♂ 50% boys♀ 50% girls
#6545US 2023
18Births / yr
↑Rising
914All-time births
📅 Since 196300
How to pronounce Kiri
KIR·ee
/ˈkɪr.iː/ · stress on KIR · 2 syllables
“桐 (kiri), meaning 'paulownia tree'”
Symbol of prosperity and growth · Japanese origin
What does Kiri mean and where does it come from?
Kiri has Japanese origins and means 'paulownia tree' (桐), which is valued for its wood and is a symbol of prosperity and growth. It is also used as a feminine given name in modern contexts. In Greek, Kiri is sometimes seen as a diminutive of Kiriakos, which translates to 'of the Lord' or 'Sunday.' T
Cultural significance
Kiri has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Japanese-speaking communities, where it reflects values of 桐 (kiri), meaning 'paulownia tree'.
Peak popularity
Reached #1808 in 1984 — currently #6545 in the US.
Rising fast — up 5202 spots — currently #6545 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
US Trend 1970–2023#6545 · Top 4.8%
1970
1975
1985
1990
1995
2000
2005
2010
2015
2020
2021
2022
2023
Year
US Rank
Births
vs Prior Year
2023
#6545
18
▲ up 5202 · +125% births
2022
#11747
8
▼ down 3908 · -43% births
2021
#7839
14
▼ down 1195 · -18% births
2020
#6644
17
▼ down 144 · -11% births
2015
#6500
19
▲ up 1852 · +36% births
2010
#8352
14
▼ down 756 · -7% births
2005
#7596
15
▼ down 680
2000
#6916
15
▼ down 3384 · -52% births
1995
#3532
31
▲ up 35 · +3% births
1990
#3567
30
▼ down 1325 · -35% births
1985
#2242
46
▲ up 7476 · +820% births
1975
#9718
5
▼ down 963
1970
#8755
5
—
Name Popularity Timeline
Popularity Statistics for Kiri
1985Rank #2242
46
#6919
↘Falling
1970 - 202313 years
The story of Kiri
Kiri is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 1963. With 914 total births recorded, Kiri remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #8755 in 1970 to #6545 in 2023.
Kiri means "桐 (kiri), meaning 'paulownia tree'" — 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 Kiri?
Kiri is currently a distinctive and less common name as a baby name in the US and is rapidly gaining popularity — searches for Kiri have increased significantly in recent years.
What is the cultural origin of Kiri?
Kiri 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 Kiri?
Kiri is a two-syllable name pronounced K IH1 R IY0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Kiri trending right now?
Kiri is currently on the rise — it has gained significant momentum in recent years as parents discover its appeal.
Sibling names that pair with Kiri
For a sister
Kiri & Ashi♡
Kiri & Temeko♡
Kiri & Natori♡
Kiri & Sameko♡
For a brother
Kiri & Gericho♡
Kiri & Natori♡
Kiri & Makia♡
Kiri & Meco♡
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