Declining since 2019, #451 for boys today.
Popularity of Kane since 1953
Babies named Kane per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1950s | 90 |
| 1960s | 165 |
| 1970s | 471 |
| 1980s | 735 |
| 1990s | 2,252 |
| 2000s | 3,674 |
| 2010s | 7,035 |
| 2020s | 5,099 |
Meaning & origin
Kane is a name with layered origins and a modern edge. First recorded in the U.S. in 1953, it gained traction slowly and reached its peak popularity in 2018, when it ranked highest nationwide. Since 2019, its trajectory has been falling, yet it remains a distinctive choice, with about 1 in every 2,458 boys bearing the name in 2025. Geographically, Kane has seen particular favor in South Dakota, West Virginia, and New Mexico. Its versatility stems from its Irish meaning 'little warrior', English connotation of 'bold', and biblical tie to Cain, offering a name that feels both ancient and contemporary. The rise of similar short, strong names like Phoenix, Zayne, and Orion has kept Kane in circulation, appealing to parents seeking a rugged, single-syllable name with historical depth.
Kane is an anglicized form of the Irish surname O Cathain, meaning 'descendant of Cathan', from cath 'battle' and the diminutive suffix an, thus 'little warrior'. It also functions as an English surname derived from the Old English cāna 'bold, able'. Additionally, it is sometimes considered a variant of Cain, from the biblical name meaning 'acquired' or 'spear'. The given name gained modern usage in the late 20th century, influenced by cultural figures and its strong one-syllable sound.
Where Kane is most popular
Births per 100,000 boys by state. Press play or drag the slider to watch it move across the decades. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
“Kane” around the world
Where Kane lands in the latest official birth statistics abroad, matched to the U.S. spelling.
France
5
babies in 2024
Ireland
7
babies in 2025
New Zealand
10
babies in 2025
Quebec
7
babies in 2025
Sources: INSEE (France) · CSO Ireland (Ireland) · NZ Dept of Internal Affairs (New Zealand) · Retraite Québec (Quebec).
Nicknames & variants
Sibling names for Kane
Names that share Kane's style, for a brother or sister.
Sisters: Quinn, Rose, Maeve, Sloan, Blair, Kamille, Lanae, Ranae, Cena, Kennia, Kennya, Sabre, Demarie, Kalah, Kenitra, Caci, Chena, Karne, Keyle
Brothers: Reid, Cole, Finn, Cade, Rhys, Kace, Diesel, Krew, Bane, Chane, Daine, Kanen, Kendon, Kessler, Shone, Tuff, Braven, Chayne, Chaze, Chen, Duwan, Kahne, Kaymen, Quante, Sher, Slayde, Tige, Havoc, Akon, Kahle, Klever, Korde, Kysin, Rage
Names like Kane
Names whose popularity has moved with Kane's over the last 50 years.
