What does Kiyoshi mean and where does it come from?
Kiyoshi (清) is a traditional Japanese name that can be used for both males and females, though primarily it is more popular as a male name. The name means 'pure' or 'clear' and embodies qualities of simplicity and clarity. While Kiyoshi itself is predominantly male, crossover usage in female naming
Cultural significance
Kiyoshi has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Japan-speaking communities, where it reflects values of 清, meaning 'pure' or 'clear'.
Peak popularity
Reached #8618 in 2025 — currently #8618 in the US.
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Related Reading
Japan-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Kiyoshi?
Kiyoshi works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Kiyoshi Jack
One syllable · timeless choice
Kiyoshi John
One syllable · timeless choice
Kiyoshi Miles
One syllable · vintage charm
Kiyoshi Brooks
One syllable · timeless choice
Kiyoshi Gael
One syllable · timeless choice
Kiyoshi Quinn
One syllable · timeless choice
How popular is Kiyoshi right now?
Rising fast — up 858 spots — currently #8618 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2025 | #8618 | 9 | ▲ up 858 · +13% births |
| 2024 | #9476 | 8 | ▼ down 1943 · -27% births |
| 2023 | #7533 | 11 | ▲ up 1143 · +22% births |
| 2022 | #8676 | 9 | ▼ down 1759 · -25% births |
| 2021 | #6917 | 12 | ▲ up 6200 · +140% births |
| 1990 | #13117 | 5 | — |
The story of Kiyoshi
Kiyoshi is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 1990. With 1,187 total births recorded, Kiyoshi remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #13117 in 1990 to #7533 in 2023. Kiyoshi is used for both genders: 1% female and 99% male.
Names that peaked alongside Kiyoshi in 2025:
Kiyoshi by decade
Kiyoshi peaked in the 2020s. See all 2020s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1910s | 241 | |
| 1920s ★ | 478 | |
| 1930s | 128 | |
| 1940s | 12 | |
| 1970s | 25 | |
| 1980s | 32 | |
| 1990s | 78 | |
| 2000s | 87 | |
| 2010s | 99 | |
| 2020s | 24 | |
💎With 1,187 total births, Kiyoshi is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Kiyoshi?
What names sound and feel like Kiyoshi?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Kiyoshi also consider these
How is Kiyoshi written in other languages?
Common questions about the name Kiyoshi
What does the name Kiyoshi mean?
Kiyoshi means "清, meaning 'pure' or 'clear'" — a name rooted in Japan 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 Kiyoshi?
Kiyoshi is currently a distinctive and less common name as a baby 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 Kiyoshi?
Kiyoshi originates from Japan tradition. Japan 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 Kiyoshi?
Kiyoshi is a three-syllable name pronounced kee-OH-shee. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
What sibling names go well with Kiyoshi?
Kiyoshi pairs beautifully with sibling names that share a similar Japan heritage or complement its melodic and flowing sound. Names with a similar vibe create a cohesive sibling set without matching too closely.