What does Midori mean and where does it come from?
Midori (みどり) is a common feminine name in Japan, which translates directly to 'green' in English. This color symbolizes nature, renewal, and life, which is significant in Japanese culture. The name has been in use for many decades and enjoys popularity in various contexts, including literature and a
Cultural significance
Midori has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Japan-speaking communities, where it reflects values of green.
Peak popularity
Reached #1636 in 1923 — currently #9404 in the US.
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Related Reading
Japan-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Midori?
Midori works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Midori Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Midori Rose
Floral · soft ending
Midori Mae
Sweet · timeless
Midori Claire
French influence · crisp
Midori Jane
Literary · strong
Midori Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Midori right now?
Falling — down 2508 spots — currently #9404 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #9404 | 11 | ▼ down 2508 · -35% births |
| 2022 | #6896 | 17 | ▲ up 3178 · +70% births |
| 2021 | #10074 | 10 | ▼ down 2875 · -33% births |
| 2020 | #7199 | 15 | ▲ up 2999 · +50% births |
| 2015 | #10198 | 10 | ▼ down 4407 · -57% births |
| 2010 | #5791 | 23 | ▼ down 501 · -4% births |
| 2005 | #5290 | 24 | ▼ down 473 |
| 2000 | #4817 | 24 | ▼ down 580 |
| 1995 | #4237 | 24 | ▲ up 316 · +14% births |
| 1990 | #4553 | 21 | ▲ up 3914 · +200% births |
| 1985 | #8467 | 7 | ▼ down 1567 · -22% births |
| 1980 | #6900 | 9 | ▼ down 1975 · +13% births |
| 1960 | #4925 | 8 | ▼ down 238 · +60% births |
| 1940 | #4687 | 5 | ▼ down 692 · -17% births |
| 1935 | #3995 | 6 | — |
The story of Midori
Midori entered American naming records in 1915 and has been in use for over 109 years. With 1,173 total births recorded, Midori remains relatively uncommon. Once ranked #3772 in 1915, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #9404 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Midori in 1923:
Midori by decade
Midori peaked in the 1920s. See all 1920s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1910s | 40 | |
| 1920s | 168 | |
| 1930s | 50 | |
| 1940s | 10 | |
| 1950s | 16 | |
| 1960s | 43 | |
| 1970s | 59 | |
| 1980s | 98 | |
| 1990s ★ | 255 | |
| 2000s | 255 | |
| 2010s | 164 | |
| 2020s | 15 | |
💎With 1,173 total births, Midori is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Midori?
What names sound and feel like Midori?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Midori also consider these
How is Midori written in other languages?
Common questions about the name Midori
What does the name Midori mean?
Midori means "green" — 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 Midori?
Midori is currently a distinctive and less common name as a girl name in the US and is rapidly gaining popularity — searches for Midori have increased significantly in recent years.
What is the cultural origin of Midori?
Midori 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 Midori?
Midori is a three-syllable name pronounced M IH1 D AO1 R IY0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
What sibling names go well with Midori?
Midori pairs beautifully with sibling names that share a similar Japan heritage or complement its melodic and flowing sound. Names with a similar vibe create a cohesive sibling set without matching too closely.