MallowbyNames

Kong

KONG · Of uncertain origin, possibly a Chinese surname or a reference to a legendary monster

Peak popularity
1993
Usually for
Boys
Trend
Holding steady

Holding steady.

Popularity of Kong since 1979

Babies named Kong per year in U.S. Social Security records.

254974198020002020Most births 1993Boys
Data table (by decade)
DecadeBoys
1970s9
1980s350
1990s474
2000s96
2010s6
2020s0

Meaning & origin

Kong is a name that carries a singular, powerful cultural association. The 1933 film 'King Kong' cemented the name in public consciousness as a symbol of immense, primal force. Despite this iconic status, the name remains extremely rare in official records. There is no rank for Kong in any recent Social Security year, and its usage has always been minimal. The peak year for the name was 1993, which likely reflects a temporary uptick rather than a trend. The trajectory is stable, meaning the name has not seen significant growth or decline. It is not recorded in any particular top states, indicating its scattered, infrequent use. For those drawn to names with a bold, cinematic heritage, Kong is a distinctive choice, though its etymology remains ambiguous and its usage largely tied to the fictional giant ape.

The name Kong is most famously associated with the fictional giant ape King Kong, introduced in the 1933 film 'King Kong.' As a given name, it may also derive from the Chinese surname Kong (孔), which means 'hole' or 'opening' and was borne by Confucius. However, the name's use as a first name in English-speaking contexts is almost certainly influenced by the film, and its etymology is uncertain.

Sibling names for Kong

Names that share Kong's style, for a brother or sister.

Sisters: Mae, Lu, Jade, Nala, Kira, Houa, Malee

Brothers: Kai, Loki, Thor, Goliath, Max, Vang, Vong

A parent animal hugging its little one, the personalized name page

K is for Kong, our favorite little boy.

K is for Kong…”

In a Mallowby alphabet book, Kong's letter becomes Kong's page: hand-illustrated, printed hardcover or paperback, made just for them.

Make Kong's book

Books for siblings or grandkids? The second book is 15% off.

Questions parents ask

What does the name Kong mean?
The meaning of Kong is uncertain. It is most commonly associated with the fictional character King Kong, but it can also be a Chinese surname meaning 'hole' or 'opening.'
How popular is the name Kong?
Kong is extremely rare as a given name. According to Social Security data, it has never ranked in the top 1000 and appears infrequently, with a peak recorded usage in 1993.
Is Kong a boy name or a girl name?
Kong is almost exclusively used as a boy's name, largely due to its association with the male character King Kong.