What does Kiva mean and where does it come from?
Kiva is a name of Irish origin. In the context of the Irish language, it can be translated as 'hollow' or refer to a traditional dwelling. The name has gained popularity as a given name in more recent years. Kiva can also refer to a ceremonial structure used by Native American Pueblo cultures, linki
Cultural significance
Kiva has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Ireland-speaking communities, where it reflects values of hollow or a type of traditional stone house.
Peak popularity
Reached #2538 in 1974 — currently #9187 in the US.
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Related Reading
Ireland-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Kiva?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Kiva?
Kiva works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Kiva Leah
One syllable · timeless choice
Kiva Quinn
One syllable · timeless choice
Kiva Blair
One syllable · on the rise
Kiva Ruth
One syllable · timeless choice
Kiva Wren
One syllable · vintage charm
Kiva Faith
One syllable · vintage charm
How popular is Kiva right now?
Rising fast — up 77 spots — currently #9187 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2025 | #9187 | 11 | ▲ up 77 |
| 2024 | #9264 | 11 | ▼ down 8270 · -99% births |
| 2023 | #994 | 1,206 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 2022 | #999 | 1,186 | ▲ up 5 · +3% births |
| 2021 | #1004 | 1,156 | ▲ up 11266 · +16414% births |
| 2020 | #12270 | 7 | ▼ down 3250 · -42% births |
| 2015 | #9020 | 12 | ▲ up 3453 · +50% births |
| 2010 | #12473 | 8 | ▲ up 780 · +14% births |
| 2005 | #13253 | 7 | ▼ down 6350 · -53% births |
| 2000 | #6903 | 15 | ▲ up 2060 · +67% births |
| 1995 | #8963 | 9 | ▼ down 233 |
| 1990 | #8730 | 9 | ▼ down 3988 · -44% births |
| 1985 | #4742 | 16 | ▼ down 817 · -20% births |
| 1980 | #3925 | 20 | ▼ down 802 · -13% births |
| 1975 | #3123 | 23 | — |
The story of Kiva
Kiva entered American naming records in 1958 and has been in use for over 66 years. With 778 total births recorded, Kiva remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #4170 in 1960 to #994 in 2023. Kiva is used for both genders: 97% female and 3% male.
Names that peaked alongside Kiva in 1974:
Kiva by decade
Kiva peaked in the 1970s. See all 1970s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1950s | 8 | |
| 1960s | 102 | |
| 1970s ★ | 206 | |
| 1980s | 145 | |
| 1990s | 105 | |
| 2000s | 92 | |
| 2010s | 113 | |
| 2020s | 35 | |
💎Kiva has only 778 total recorded births since 1958 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.
What are good nicknames for Kiva?
What names sound and feel like Kiva?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Kiva also consider these
Common questions about the name Kiva
What does the name Kiva mean?
Kiva means "Hollow or a type of traditional stone house" — a name rooted in Ireland 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 Kiva?
Kiva is currently ranked #994 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 Kiva?
Kiva originates from Ireland tradition. Ireland names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
Is Kiva a common or rare name?
Kiva is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.
Is Kiva more of a girl or boy name?
Kiva is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.