Declining since 2007, #8,910 for boys today.
Popularity of Kawan since 1972
Babies named Kawan per year in U.S. Social Security records. Raw births topped out in 2007, but relative to how few babies were recorded back then, Kawan's real moment was 1979.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1970s | 97 |
| 1980s | 88 |
| 1990s | 134 |
| 2000s | 145 |
| 2010s | 73 |
| 2020s | 31 |
Meaning & origin
Kawan is a rare masculine name that entered U.S. vital records in 1972. Its peak year was 1979, when it ranked highest among recorded years. Since 2007, the name has been on a downward trajectory, making it an uncommon choice today. In 2025, the name ranked 8,910, with an estimated 1 in 213,510 newborns named Kawan. The name's origins are debated, with possible Persian roots meaning "noble" or Kurdish origins meaning "old." Despite its rarity, Kawan has not been associated with any particular region or state in the U.S., as top states data is unavailable. Its simple pronunciation and distinctive sound make it a unique option for parents seeking an uncommon name with a touch of Persian or Kurdish heritage.
Kawan is a name of uncertain origin. It may be a variant of Kavan, which derives from Persian kâvân meaning "noble" or "wise." Alternatively, it could be a Kurdish name meaning "old" or "ancient." The name saw modest use in the United States starting in the 1970s, but it has always been rare.
Nicknames & variants
Variants: Kavan
Sibling names for Kawan
Names that share Kawan's style, for a brother or sister.
