Declining since 1995, #3,583 for boys today.
Popularity of Kimani since 1969
Babies named Kimani per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls | Boys |
|---|---|---|
| 1960s | 0 | 5 |
| 1970s | 7 | 250 |
| 1980s | 0 | 81 |
| 1990s | 225 | 515 |
| 2000s | 576 | 404 |
| 2010s | 597 | 337 |
| 2020s | 294 | 166 |
Meaning & origin
Kimani is a unisex name of African origin that has seen modest but consistent use in the United States since it first appeared in records in 1969. Its meaning is often cited as 'sweet' or 'gentle' from Swahili, but this derivation remains uncertain. The name reached its peak popularity in 1998, when it ranked 1,946th, and has since declined, falling to 3,583rd in 2025. Approximately 1 in 55,099 babies received the name that year. The trajectory has been downward since around 1995, reflecting a broader trend away from less common names. Geographically, Kimani is most popular in Florida and New York, suggesting a concentration in states with diverse populations. Its simple, musical sound and unisex appeal make it a distinctive choice that carries a sense of cultural connection.
The name Kimani is of African origin, likely from the Swahili language of East Africa. It has been suggested to mean 'sweet' or 'gentle', but this derivation is not firmly established. The name gained visibility in the United States from the late 1960s onward, especially among African-American families.
Where Kimani is most popular
Births per 100,000 boys by state, 2025. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Kim, Mani
Sibling names for Kimani
Names that share Kimani's style, for a brother or sister.
