MallowbyNames

Bayani

Bayanibah-YAH-nee · Hero, patriot

Peak popularity
2024
Usually for
Boys
Trend
Rising since 2007

Rising since 2007.

Popularity of Bayani since 2004

Babies named Bayani per year in U.S. Social Security records. Raw births topped out in 2009, but relative to how few babies were recorded back then, Bayani's real moment was 2024.

481220102020Most births 2009Boys
Data table (by decade)
DecadeBoys
2000s17
2010s63
2020s37

Meaning & origin

The name Bayani entered the U.S. Social Security Administration's baby name data in 2004, and since then it has been on a consistent upward trajectory, particularly from 2007 onward. Although it has never cracked the top 1,000 names, its peak year so far is 2024, suggesting growing interest among Filipino-American families and others who appreciate its powerful meaning. The name is deeply rooted in Tagalog, where it directly translates to 'hero' or 'patriot,' giving it a strong sense of cultural identity and pride. As a modern adoption in the United States, it remains rare but carries significant weight, making it a distinctive choice for parents seeking a name with both heritage and substance.

Bayani is a Filipino word meaning 'hero' or 'patriot,' derived from the Tagalog language. It was adopted as a given name in the Philippines, reflecting cultural pride and national identity. The name has gained usage among Filipino communities worldwide, particularly in the United States, since the early 2000s.

Nicknames & variants

Nicknames: Bay, Yani, B

Variants: Bayan

Sibling names for Bayani

Names that share Bayani's style, for a brother or sister.

Sisters: Maya, Tala, Liwayway, Dalisay, Amihan

Brothers: Datu, Lakas, Kalaw, Sikat, Maki

A parent animal hugging its little one, the personalized name page

B is for Bayani, our favorite little boy.

B is for Bayani…”

In a Mallowby alphabet book, Bayani's letter becomes Bayani's page: hand-illustrated, printed hardcover or paperback, made just for them.

Make Bayani's book

Books for siblings or grandkids? The second book is 15% off.

Questions parents ask

What does the name Bayani mean?
Bayani means 'hero' or 'patriot' in Tagalog, the national language of the Philippines.
Is Bayani a popular name?
The name Bayani has been recorded in the United States since 2004 and appears to be rising in usage. In 2025, it did not rank among the top 1,000 names, but it reached its peak rank in 2024.
Is Bayani a boy's or girl's name?
Bayani is predominantly used as a boy's name.