MallowbyNames

Ishi

EE-shee · Of uncertain origin; possibly meaning 'stone' in Japanese, or a variant of Isis.

Peak popularity
2014
Usually for
Girls
Trend
Declining since 2013

Declining since 2013.

Popularity of Ishi since 1979

Babies named Ishi per year in U.S. Social Security records.

4913198020002020Most births 2014GirlsBoys
GirlsBoys
Data table (by decade)
DecadeGirlsBoys
1970s07
1980s00
1990s00
2000s190
2010s790
2020s140

Meaning & origin

Ishi is a rare and intriguing name with multiple possible origins, including Japanese and Egyptian connections. First recorded in the U.S. in 2006, it reached its peak popularity in 2014 but has been declining since 2013. The name has not ranked in the top 1000, reflecting its rarity. Its short, vowel-rich sound gives it a modern feel, and it remains a distinctive choice for parents seeking an uncommon name.

The name Ishi has multiple possible origins. In Japanese, it may derive from the word for 'stone' (ishi) or be a short form of names like Ishimatsu. Alternatively, it could be a modern diminutive of Isis, the Egyptian goddess name. The name has seen occasional use in the United States since the early 2000s, possibly influenced by the character Ishi Tib from the Star Wars franchise.

Nicknames & variants

Variants: Isi

Sibling names for Ishi

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

Sisters: Mira, Suki, Nori, Lila, Tessa

Brothers: Kai, Ryo, Leo, Jake, Taro

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

I is for Ishi, our favorite little girl.

I is for Ishi…”

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

Make Ishi's book

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

Questions parents ask

What does the name Ishi mean?
The meaning is uncertain. It may mean 'stone' in Japanese or be derived from the Egyptian goddess Isis.
How popular is Ishi?
Ishi has been rare in the United States, with no rank in the top 1000. Its peak usage was in 2014, and it has declined since 2013.
Is Ishi a boy's or girl's name?
Ishi is typically used for girls, though it could be considered unisex due to its varied origins.