What does Kofi mean and where does it come from?
Kofi is predominantly a male name in Ghana, derived from the Akan people, but it is also used for females in some contexts. The name signifies a child's birth on a Friday, which is significant in Akan culture that associates different days with specific traits. There are various regional variations,
Cultural significance
Kofi has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Ghana-speaking communities, where it reflects values of born on friday.
Peak popularity
Reached #3279 in 2025 — currently #3279 in the US.
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Related Reading
Ghana-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Kofi?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Kofi?
Kofi works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Kofi Jack
One syllable · timeless choice
Kofi John
One syllable · timeless choice
Kofi Miles
One syllable · vintage charm
Kofi Brooks
One syllable · timeless choice
Kofi Gael
One syllable · timeless choice
Kofi Quinn
One syllable · timeless choice
How popular is Kofi right now?
Rising fast — up 375 spots — currently #3279 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2025 | #3279 | 36 | ▲ up 375 · +16% births |
| 2024 | #3654 | 31 | ▼ down 507 · -21% births |
| 2023 | #3147 | 39 | ▼ down 253 · -11% births |
| 2022 | #2894 | 44 | ▼ down 97 · -2% births |
| 2021 | #2797 | 45 | — |
The story of Kofi
Kofi is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 1976. With 1,349 total births recorded, Kofi remains relatively uncommon. Once ranked #2797 in 2021, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #3147 in 2023. Kofi is used for both genders: 0% female and 100% male.
Names that peaked alongside Kofi in 2025:
Kofi by decade
Kofi peaked in the 2020s. See all 2020s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1970s | 169 | |
| 1980s | 193 | |
| 1990s | 259 | |
| 2000s ★ | 390 | |
| 2010s | 302 | |
| 2020s | 103 | |
💎With 1,349 total births, Kofi is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Kofi?
What names sound and feel like Kofi?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Kofi also consider these
Common questions about the name Kofi
What does the name Kofi mean?
Kofi means "Born on Friday" — a name rooted in Ghana 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 Kofi?
Kofi 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 Kofi?
Kofi originates from Ghana tradition. Ghana 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 Kofi?
Kofi is a two-syllable name pronounced KOH-fee. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Kofi a common or rare name?
Kofi is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.