Declining since 2021, #7,885 for girls today.
Popularity of Kiki since 1920
Babies named Kiki per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1920s | 38 |
| 1930s | 23 |
| 1940s | 7 |
| 1950s | 71 |
| 1960s | 134 |
| 1970s | 273 |
| 1980s | 142 |
| 1990s | 85 |
| 2000s | 138 |
| 2010s | 111 |
| 2020s | 90 |
Meaning & origin
Kiki is a short, playful name that emerged as an independent given name in the early 20th century, first recorded in baby name data in 1920. It reached its peak popularity in 1975, when it ranked highest in usage. Since 2021, its popularity has been falling, with a current rank of 7,885 and a frequency of 1 in 123,636 births in 2025. The name's trajectory places it in a modest decline from earlier decades, particularly the 1970s decade when it saw its greatest use. Kiki remains an unusual choice, primarily given to girls, and retains a lively, international flair.
Kiki originated as a pet form of names beginning with the 'K' sound, such as Katherine, Kristen, or Keziah, or as a reduplicated nickname. It gained recognition in the English-speaking world as an independent name in the early 20th century, partly influenced by the French pet name Kiki. The name saw a notable spike in the 1970s, likely due to cultural references, though its usage has since declined. It is now used globally, sometimes as a creative spelling for similar-sounding names.
Sibling names for Kiki
Names that share Kiki's style, for a brother or sister.
