Kiva

“Hollow or a type of traditional stone house”

Ireland origin · Unisex name

♂ 3% boys♀ 97% girls

#994US 2023

1.2kBirths / yr

→Stable

778All-time births

📅 Since 195800

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 #994 in the US.

🌿

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 Grace

How popular is Kiva right now?

Holding steady — currently #994 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names

US Trend 1960–2023#994 · Top 0.73%

1965

1970

1975

1980

1985

1990

1995

2000

2005

2010

2015

2020

2021

2022

2023

Year	US Rank	Births	vs Prior Year
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	▲ up 710 · +44% births
1970	#3833	16	▲ up 1872 · +129% births
1965	#5705	7	—

Name Popularity Timeline

Popularity Statistics for Kiva

Best Year2023Rank #994

Peak Count1,206

Average Rank#6257

Current Trend↘Falling

Data Range1960 - 202316 years

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:

Jennifer Amy Michelle Heather Angela

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	7

💎Kiva has only 778 total recorded births since 1958 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.

What are good nicknames for Kiva?

Common

KivKivieKivy

What names sound and feel like Kiva?

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

KIEVA

Ireland · gentle; beautiful

Ireland · gentle, beautiful

Riva

Italy · Italian

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.