Rising since 2002, #13,208 for girls today.
Popularity of Kioni since 1998
Babies named Kioni per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls | Boys |
|---|---|---|
| 1990s | 5 | 0 |
| 2000s | 52 | 0 |
| 2010s | 80 | 5 |
| 2020s | 64 | 12 |
Meaning & origin
Kioni is a modern name that first appeared in U.S. birth records in 1998. It has experienced a steady rise in use since 2002, reaching its peak popularity in 2022. As of 2025, it ranked 13,208, with a frequency of about 1 in 267,878 newborns. The name's origins are unclear, though its melodic quality and similarity to other African-inspired names like Kiana and Zuri likely contribute to its appeal. It has not yet reached widespread use in any state, suggesting it remains a distinctive choice. The etymology is uncertain, but the name is typically considered a feminine coinage with possible Swahili influences.
The name Kioni emerged in the United States in the late 1990s and appears to be a modern coinage. It may draw phonetic inspiration from Swahili or other African languages, where 'kion' or similar roots can relate to concepts of love or brightness, but no direct etymological link is established. Its rise in use is likely due to its melodic sound and resemblance to names like Kiara and Kiana.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Kio
Sibling names for Kioni
Names that share Kioni's style, for a brother or sister.
