A 1970s favorite, climbing again.
Popularity of Kemi since 1961
Babies named Kemi per year in U.S. Social Security records. Raw births topped out in 2022, but relative to how few babies were recorded back then, Kemi's real moment was 1978.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1960s | 17 |
| 1970s | 71 |
| 1980s | 56 |
| 1990s | 70 |
| 2000s | 56 |
| 2010s | 54 |
| 2020s | 59 |
Meaning & origin
Kemi entered U.S. records in 1961, a relatively late debut compared to many names of Yoruba origin. Its peak popularity came in 1978, when it saw its highest usage. After a period of decline, the name has been rising in use since 2013, reflecting a broader trend of revival for names from the 1970s. Though Kemi has never been widespread, its unique sound and meaningful Yoruba origin make it an appealing choice for parents seeking an uncommon name with cultural significance. As of 2025, about 1 in every 229,610 newborn girls receives the name, placing it well outside the top 10,000. This rarity, combined with its melodic simplicity, gives Kemi a distinctive charm.
Kemi originates from the Yoruba language of Nigeria. It is often a diminutive or pet form of longer Yoruba names such as Kemisola (meaning 'cherish wealth') or Kehinde (meaning 'second-born of twins'). As a standalone name, Kemi carries the affectionate meaning 'cherished' or 'precious one.' It has been used both in Nigeria and among the African diaspora, particularly in the United States, where it has seen modest usage since the 1960s.
“Kemi” around the world
Where Kemi lands in the latest official birth statistics abroad, matched to the U.S. spelling.
France
15
babies in 2024
Sources: INSEE (France).
Sibling names for Kemi
Names that share Kemi's style, for a brother or sister.
