What does Kodi mean and where does it come from?
Kodi is a modern, trendy name that has emerged in the English-speaking world. It is often seen as a unisex name but has a notable feminine usage. The name has roots in Native American cultures as well, where it emphasizes communication and guidance. It gained popularity in the late 20th century and
Cultural significance
Kodi has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in American-speaking communities, where it reflects values of a form of the name codi, which means 'helpful' or 'cushion'.
Peak popularity
Reached #1736 in 1994 — currently #1040 in the US.
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Related Reading
American-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Kodi?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Kodi?
Kodi works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Kodi Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Kodi Rose
Floral · soft ending
Kodi Claire
French influence · crisp
Kodi Jane
Literary · strong
Kodi Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Kodi right now?
Rising fast — up 96 spots — currently #1040 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #1040 | 244 | ▲ up 96 · +13% births |
| 2022 | #1136 | 215 | ▲ up 342 · +48% births |
| 2021 | #1478 | 145 | ▲ up 355 · +37% births |
| 2020 | #1833 | 106 | ▲ up 308 · +19% births |
| 2015 | #2141 | 89 | ▲ up 179 · +9% births |
| 2010 | #2320 | 82 | ▲ up 367 · +30% births |
| 2005 | #2687 | 63 | ▼ down 158 · +5% births |
| 2000 | #2529 | 60 | ▼ down 777 · -28% births |
| 1995 | #1752 | 83 | ▲ up 74 · +5% births |
| 1990 | #1826 | 79 | ▲ up 1019 · +139% births |
| 1985 | #2845 | 33 | ▲ up 273 · +18% births |
| 1980 | #3118 | 28 | ▲ up 479 · +47% births |
| 1975 | #3597 | 19 | — |
The story of Kodi
Kodi is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 1967. With 5,760 total births recorded, Kodi remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #3597 in 1975 to #1040 in 2023. Kodi is used for both genders: 52% female and 48% male.
Names that peaked alongside Kodi in 1994:
Kodi by decade
Kodi peaked in the 1990s. See all 1990s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1960s | 7 | |
| 1970s | 273 | |
| 1980s | 729 | |
| 1990s ★ | 1,685 | |
| 2000s | 1,290 | |
| 2010s | 1,573 | |
| 2020s | 203 | |
💎With 5,760 total births, Kodi is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Kodi?
What names sound and feel like Kodi?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Kodi also consider these
Common questions about the name Kodi
What does the name Kodi mean?
Kodi means "a form of the name Codi, which means 'helpful' or 'cushion'" — a name rooted in American 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 Kodi?
Kodi is currently a distinctive and less common name as a baby name in the US and is rapidly gaining popularity — searches for Kodi have increased significantly in recent years.
What is the cultural origin of Kodi?
Kodi originates from American tradition. American 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 Kodi?
Kodi is a two-syllable name pronounced K OW1 D AY1. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Kodi trending right now?
Kodi is currently on the rise — it has gained significant momentum in recent years as parents discover its appeal.