Declining since 2019, #10,695 for boys today.
Popularity of Kawai since 2008
Babies named Kawai per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 2000s | 5 |
| 2010s | 53 |
| 2020s | 48 |
Meaning & origin
Kawai is a rare name with diverse cultural roots, primarily Hawaiian and Japanese. It first appeared in U.S. records in 2008, with a peak usage in 2020. Since 2019, its popularity has been falling, reflecting its niche appeal. With a rank of 10,695 in 2025, it remains an uncommon choice, given to about 1 in 284,679 newborns. While not recorded in any top states, the name's gentle sound and dual heritage may attract parents seeking a short, melodic name with island or East Asian connections.
The name Kawai has multiple potential origins. In Hawaiian, 'kawai' can mean 'to come' or may be related to 'wai' (water). In Japanese, 'kawai' (かわい) is often part of 'kawaii' meaning 'cute' or 'lovable', though it is not a standard given name in Japan. It is more commonly used in Hawaii and among families with Hawaiian heritage. The name gained modern usage in the United States, first recorded in 2008.
Sibling names for Kawai
Names that share Kawai's style, for a brother or sister.
