Rising since 1985, #1,962 for girls today.
Popularity of Kaori since 1969
Babies named Kaori per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1960s | 5 |
| 1970s | 30 |
| 1980s | 59 |
| 1990s | 114 |
| 2000s | 333 |
| 2010s | 345 |
| 2020s | 523 |
Meaning & origin
Kaori is a Japanese name that entered U.S. records in 1969, and it has been used with growing frequency since 1985. In 2025, it ranked 1962nd among American girls' names, with about 1 in every 16,401 newborns receiving it. Its peak year so far was 2022. Geographically, Kaori has shown particular favor in Louisiana, Georgia, and Pennsylvania, suggesting a spread across distinct regions rather than a single ethnic enclave. The name's appeal lies in its lyrical sound and the variety of positive meanings associated with its kanji renderings, such as "fragrance" or "weave." As a Japanese name in English-speaking contexts, Kaori carries both cultural specificity and a melodic quality that fits contemporary naming trends. Its steady rise in the U.S. reflects a broader interest in names from East Asian cultures, while its enduring presence in Japan ensures it remains a familiar choice across generations.
Kaori is a Japanese feminine name that can be written with various kanji characters. The most common interpretations include 香 (kao, 'fragrance') and 織 (ori, 'weave'), but other combinations are possible. The name has been in use since at least the mid-20th century and remains popular in Japan, often chosen for its pleasant sound and positive meanings related to scent or textile artistry.
Where Kaori is most popular
Births per 100,000 girls by state, 2025. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
“Kaori” around the world
Where Kaori lands in the latest official birth statistics abroad, matched to the U.S. spelling.
France
5
babies in 2024
Sources: INSEE (France).
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Kao, Kaorin, Orika
Sibling names for Kaori
Names that share Kaori's style, for a brother or sister.
