MallowbyNames

Kano

KAH-noh · Of uncertain origin; possibly from Japanese meaning 'one's ability' or from various African languages.

2025 rank (boys)
#6,446
Babies named in 2025
13
Peak popularity
2022
2025 frequency
1 in 131,390 boys
Usually for
Boys
Trend
Declining since 2022

Declining since 2022, #6,446 for boys today.

Popularity of Kano since 1971

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

91726198020002020Most births 2022Boys
Data table (by decade)
DecadeBoys
1970s5
1980s0
1990s0
2000s14
2010s110
2020s106

Meaning & origin

Kano is a rare name with multiple possible origins, reflecting global influences. In the United States, it has been recorded since 1971, though it has never been common. As of 2025, the name ranked 6,446, with a frequency of 1 in 131,390 births. Its peak year was 2022, suggesting a slight uptick in interest before a recent decline. The name's trajectory shows a falling trend since 2022. While no top states were recorded for Kano, its use is likely scattered. Parents choosing Kano may appreciate its simplicity, cross-cultural appeal, and distinctive sound.

Kano has multiple potential origins. In Japanese, it can be written with different kanji characters, one possibility being 叶野, combining 'leaf' with a character meaning 'one's prayer' or 'fulfill'. Alternatively, it may derive from the Kano people of Nigeria, where it is a common given name. The name gained some use in the English-speaking world as a modern coinage.

Sibling names for Kano

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

Sisters: Maya, Suki, Lena, Nia, Zara

Brothers: Kai, Leo, Milo, Ryo, Sean

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

K is for Kano, our favorite little boy.

K is for Kano…”

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

Make Kano's book

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

Questions parents ask

What does the name Kano mean?
Kano has uncertain origins. It may be Japanese, possibly meaning 'one's ability' or 'one's prayer', or it could be of West African origin, particularly from the Hausa people of Nigeria, where it is a given name.
How popular is the name Kano?
Kano is a very rare name in the United States. In 2025, it ranked 6,446, with about 1 in 131,390 baby boys given the name. Its peak popularity was in 2022.
Is Kano a boy or girl name?
Kano is primarily used as a boy's name, though it could be considered unisex due to its diverse origins.