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Koi

Unisex nameJapan origin#2458 in popularityTop 1.8% Falling — down 199 spots

love, affection

Meaning and Origin

Koi (恋) is a traditional Japanese name that evokes feelings of love and affection. The word itself is often associated with the beautiful koi fish, which symbolizes love, friendship, and perseverance in Japanese culture. The name has gained popularity due to its simplicity and profound meaning, ofte

Koi has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Japan-speaking communities, where it reflects values of love, affection.

Popularity Over Time

-199
Rank Change
vs. previous year
55
Babies Born
in 2023
+41%
Birth Rate Change
20192023
Top 1.8%
Popularity
out of 135.5k names
#3079
2019
#2678
2020
#2516
2021
#2259
2022
#2458
2023
YearRankBirthsChange
2023#245855↓199 rank · -14% births
2022#225964↑257 rank · +21% births
2021#251653↑162 rank · +13% births
2020#267847↑401 rank · +21% births
2019#307939

Similar Names

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the name Koi mean?

Koi means "love, affection" — 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 Koi?

Koi is currently a distinctive and less common name as a baby name in the US and is rapidly gaining popularity — searches for Koi have increased significantly in recent years.

What is the cultural origin of Koi?

Koi 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 does Koi sound with different last names?

As a one-syllable name, Koi flows best with last names of two or three syllables. Avoid last names ending in the same sound as Koi ends, as this can create an unwanted rhyme. Test by saying the full name out loud several times.

Is Koi trending right now?

Koi is currently on the rise — it has gained significant momentum in recent years as parents discover its appeal.