Rising since 1985, #835 for boys today.
Popularity of Kaiser since 1915
Babies named Kaiser per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1910s | 31 |
| 1920s | 29 |
| 1930s | 5 |
| 1940s | 20 |
| 1950s | 0 |
| 1960s | 17 |
| 1970s | 39 |
| 1980s | 34 |
| 1990s | 140 |
| 2000s | 336 |
| 2010s | 1,407 |
| 2020s | 1,863 |
Meaning & origin
Kaiser, meaning 'emperor,' has been in use in the United States since at least 1915, but its rise to modern popularity is a recent phenomenon. In 2025 it ranked #835, given to about 1 in 5,771 boys. The name peaked in popularity in 2023, and its trajectory has been rising steadily since 1985. Kaiser is most commonly found in southern states, especially Mississippi, Alabama, and Louisiana. The name carries a commanding presence, drawing from its imperial roots, yet feels contemporary and accessible.
Kaiser is the German word for 'emperor,' directly derived from the Roman title 'Caesar.' It was adopted as a given name, particularly in German-speaking regions, and later spread to other cultures. As a first name, it has enjoyed modern usage in the United States, especially in the South.
Where Kaiser 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 Kaiser
Names that share Kaiser's style, for a brother or sister.
