Rising since 1986, #7,885 for girls today.
Popularity of Akane since 1979
Babies named Akane per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1970s | 5 |
| 1980s | 23 |
| 1990s | 83 |
| 2000s | 90 |
| 2010s | 96 |
| 2020s | 61 |
Meaning & origin
Akane entered the U.S. naming records in 1979, later reaching its peak popularity in 1998, when it was most frequently used. Although it remains rare, its trajectory has been rising since 1986, reflecting growing interest in Japanese names in English-speaking countries. As of 2025, it ranks 7,885th with a frequency of 1 in 123,636 births. The name is associated with the vivid red of the madder plant, a natural dye used in traditional Japanese coloring. Akane is a distinctly feminine choice that has yet to appear in any U.S. top state lists, indicating a broad but low-level use across the country.
Akane derives from the Japanese word for the madder plant (Rubia cordifolia), historically used to produce a red dye. As a given name, it became popular in the late 20th century, often chosen for its vivid color association and simplicity. It is also used as a surname in Japan.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Aka, Aki, Akan-chan
Sibling names for Akane
Names that share Akane's style, for a brother or sister.
