What does Maki mean and where does it come from?
Maki is a Japanese name that can be used for girls. It is a name with multiple meanings depending on the kanji characters used. The characters '真木' mean 'true tree', symbolizing strength and resilience, while '麻紀' can mean 'hemp chronicle', connecting to the historical use of hemp in Japan. Maki can
Cultural significance
Maki has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Japan-speaking communities, where it reflects values of 真木 (true tree).
Peak popularity
Reached #7282 in 1973 — currently #11716 in the US.
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Related Reading
Japan-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Maki?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Maki?
Maki works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Maki Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Maki Rose
Floral · soft ending
Maki Claire
French influence · crisp
Maki Jane
Literary · strong
Maki Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Maki right now?
Rising fast — up 1881 spots — currently #11716 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #11716 | 6 | ▲ up 1881 · +20% births |
| 2022 | #13597 | 5 | ▼ down 8125 · -71% births |
| 2021 | #5472 | 17 | ▲ up 8309 · +143% births |
| 2010 | #13781 | 7 | ▼ down 430 |
| 2005 | #13351 | 7 | ▲ up 2239 · +40% births |
| 2000 | #15590 | 5 | ▼ down 3660 · -17% births |
| 1990 | #11930 | 6 | ▼ down 702 · +20% births |
| 1980 | #11228 | 5 | ▼ down 3473 · -29% births |
| 1975 | #7755 | 7 | ▲ up 1429 · +40% births |
| 1970 | #9184 | 5 | — |
The story of Maki
Maki is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 1970. With 659 total births recorded, Maki remains relatively uncommon. Once ranked #9184 in 1970, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #11716 in 2023. Maki is used for both genders: 28% female and 72% male.
Names that peaked alongside Maki in 1973:
Maki by decade
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1970s | 48 | |
| 1980s | 18 | |
| 1990s | 66 | |
| 2000s ★ | 303 | |
| 2010s | 216 | |
| 2020s | 8 | |
💎Maki has only 659 total recorded births since 1970 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.
What are good nicknames for Maki?
What names sound and feel like Maki?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Maki also consider these
Common questions about the name Maki
What does the name Maki mean?
Maki means "真木 (True tree)" — 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 Maki?
Maki 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 Maki?
Maki 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 Maki?
Maki is a two-syllable name pronounced M AA1 K IY0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Maki a common or rare name?
Maki is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.