MallowbyNames

Tangi

TAHNG-ee · Of uncertain origin; possibly a variant of Tangi, a Shoshone name meaning 'coyote' in the Native American tradition, or a Japanese name meaning 'valley' or 'field' depending on the kanji used.

Peak popularity
1980
Usually for
Girls
Trend
Holding steady

Holding steady.

Popularity of Tangi since 1955

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

918271960198020002020Most births 1980Girls
Data table (by decade)
DecadeGirls
1950s15
1960s91
1970s142
1980s69
1990s23
2000s0
2010s0
2020s0

Meaning & origin

Tangi is a rare, predominantly feminine name with ambiguous roots. It first appeared in U.S. records in 1955, but never achieved widespread popularity, remaining outside the top 1000 in every year. Its peak came in 1980, when it was given to the most babies in a single year. The name has shown a stable trajectory, neither rising nor falling dramatically. Tangi's top state usage is minimal, reflecting its rarity. The name's uncertain etymology adds to its mystique: it may be derived from the Shoshone word for 'coyote' or have Japanese origins. For parents seeking a distinctive unheard name with a subtle natural or cultural resonance, Tangi offers a quietly intriguing option.

Tangi is a name of uncertain origin. It may derive from the Shoshone word for 'coyote' and has been used among Native American communities, particularly in the 20th century. Alternatively, it could be a Japanese name composed of elements meaning 'valley' (谷) or 'field' (田), though its adoption in the United States is more likely from Native American roots. Its usage peaked in the 1980s but remains rare.

Nicknames & variants

Nicknames: Tang, Gigi

Sibling names for Tangi

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

Sisters: Kaya, Naya, Suki, Maya, Lila

Brothers: Koda, Toma, Mika, Niko, Kai

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

T is for Tangi, our favorite little girl.

T is for Tangi…”

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

Make Tangi's book

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

Questions parents ask

What does the name Tangi mean?
Tangi is of uncertain origin. It may mean 'coyote' in Shoshone (Native American) or come from Japanese elements for 'valley' or 'field'.
How popular is the name Tangi?
Tangi has never ranked in the top 1000 U.S. names. It peaked in 1980 but remains very rare, with stable low usage through 2025.
Is Tangi a boy or girl name?
Tangi is primarily used for girls, based on U.S. Social Security data, though it can be unisex.