Rising since 1997, #1,753 for boys today.
Popularity of Akai since 1975
Babies named Akai per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls | Boys |
|---|---|---|
| 1970s | 0 | 7 |
| 1980s | 7 | 12 |
| 1990s | 5 | 11 |
| 2000s | 7 | 132 |
| 2010s | 32 | 359 |
| 2020s | 17 | 489 |
Meaning & origin
Akai is a concise, multicultural name that has gained steady traction in the United States since the 1970s. Its earliest recorded use in U.S. data is 1975, and it has been on a rising trajectory since 1997. As of the 2025 data, it ranks 1753, with roughly 1 in 18,566 newborn boys receiving the name. Its peak popularity occurred recently, in 2023. The name is most frequently given in Pennsylvania, Georgia, and Florida, reflecting a broad geographic appeal. Akai's appeal likely stems from its cross-cultural resonance: it evokes the Japanese word for 'red' as well as a Ghanaian term meaning 'firstborn'. This dual heritage, combined with its simple two-syllable sound, aligns with modern naming trends favoring short, globally inspired names. While still uncommon, Akai's consistent upward trend suggests it may continue to grow in use.
Akai is a name with multiple possible origins. In Japanese, 'akai' (赤い) means 'red'. It may also be a variant of the Akan name 'Akai' meaning 'firstborn' from Ghana. The name has seen modern use as a given name in the United States, particularly since the 1970s.
Where Akai is most popular
Births per 100,000 boys by state, 2025. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Kai
Sibling names for Akai
Names that share Akai's style, for a brother or sister.
