Rising since 2009, #3,181 for boys today.
Popularity of Dakai since 2002
Babies named Dakai per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 2000s | 17 |
| 2010s | 89 |
| 2020s | 143 |
Meaning & origin
Dakai first entered U.S. records in 2002, a modern name with no clear etymology. It may be a creative combination of the popular prefix Da- (as in Darnell or Dante) and the trendy suffix -kai (seen in names like Kai). Since 2009, Dakai has been consistently rising in use, reaching its peak rank of 3,181 in 2025 (1 in 46,164 births). Its use is most concentrated in Ohio, which recorded the highest number of births for this name. While still very rare, Dakai fits a contemporary pattern of invented names that blend fashionable sounds, and its upward trajectory suggests growing appeal among parents seeking a distinctive choice.
Dakai is a modern name with no well-established etymology. It may be a blend of the prefix Da- (as in Darnell or Dante) and the popular suffix -kai (drawn from Hawaiian Kai, meaning 'sea', or from other names). The name first appeared in U.S. records in 2002 and has seen increasing use since 2009, particularly in Ohio. It remains a rare choice.
Where Dakai is most popular
Births per 100,000 boys by state, 2025. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Sibling names for Dakai
Names that share Dakai's style, for a brother or sister.
