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 #10195 in 1976 — currently #3147 in the US.
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Related Reading
Ghana-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →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 Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Kofi Rose
Floral · soft ending
Kofi Claire
French influence · crisp
Kofi Jane
Literary · strong
Kofi Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Kofi right now?
Falling — down 253 spots — currently #3147 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 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 1976:
Kofi by decade
Kofi peaked in the 1970s. See all 1970s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1970s | 169 | |
| 1980s | 193 | |
| 1990s | 259 | |
| 2000s ★ | 390 | |
| 2010s | 302 | |
| 2020s | 36 | |
💎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 K OW1 F IY0. 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.