"carp fish; symbol of perseverance and good luck"
Origin: Japanese
Language: Japanese
Koi
Does Koi flow with your last name?
A Japanese name meaning both 'love' and evoking serene beauty
Japanese
American
Hawaiian
Unique
Earthy
Modern
Whimsical
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Things to Know About This Name
- In Western contexts, strongly associated with decorative pond fish (koi carp), which may lead to fish-related jokes
The Story of Koi
Koi (鯉) in Japanese refers to the ornamental carp fish that are symbols of good luck, perseverance, and transformation. However, the word koi (恋) also means 'love' or 'affection' in Japanese — a homophone that gives the name a beautiful dual meaning. As a given name, it evokes both the serene beauty of koi ponds and the Japanese concept of romantic love.
Koi emerged as a given name in the US in the 2010s, riding the wave of nature-inspired, minimalist one-syllable names. It appeals to parents who appreciate Japanese culture and aesthetic, as well as those drawn to names with natural imagery.
Koi fish hold profound symbolism in Japanese and East Asian cultures, representing perseverance against adversity, good fortune, and spiritual transformation. The famous koi legend tells of fish that climbed a waterfall to transform into dragons, making koi a symbol of ambition and determination.
Historical Record
Koi first appeared in US Social Security records in 1999.
Over 585 babies have been named Koi in the United States since SSA records began.
Today, Koi is rising quickly in popularity , currently ranked #3,034 for girl names in the US .
Fun Facts
- Koi fish are considered living good luck charms in Japan and China, often living over 25 years
- The Japanese concept of koi has two meanings — the fish (鯉) and romantic love (恋) — both pronounced identically
Koi in Other Languages
Korean
코이
Chinese
锦鲤 (jǐn lǐ)
Japanese
恋 / 鯉
Popularity Over Time
#3,034
Current Rank
Rising
Trend
Rising Fast
Based on SSA data 1880–present
Year-by-year popularity data will be available soon.
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Compare Koi with:
Quick Facts
- Gender
- Girl
- Syllables
- 1
- Popularity Rank
- #3,034
- Total SSA Count
- 54
- Cultural Origins
- Japanese American Hawaiian
- Pronunciation
- Easy
- Formality
- Casual
- Cross-Cultural Ease
- Moderate
Middle Name Ideas
Suggested pairings based on syllable flow and style
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Classic pairing, smooth 1-2 syllable flow
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Classic pairing, smooth 1-2 syllable flow
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Classic pairing, smooth 1-2 syllable flow
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Distinctive pick, American heritage match, quick 1-1 syllable combo
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Timeless choice, American heritage match, quick 1-1 syllable combo
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Timeless choice, American heritage match, quick 1-1 syllable combo
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Timeless choice, American heritage match, quick 1-1 syllable combo
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Classic pairing, smooth 1-2 syllable flow
-
Classic pairing, smooth 1-2 syllable flow
-
Classic pairing, smooth 1-2 syllable flow
Middle Names
Middle Names for Koi
6 name pairings with syllable flow tips
Sibling Names
Sibling Match
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Also a Boy Name
Koi is also used as a boy name, ranked #2684.
View Koi as a boy name →Similar Names
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Frequently Asked Questions About Koi
What does the name Koi mean?
"carp fish; symbol of perseverance and good luck" (from Japanese). Koi (鯉) in Japanese refers to the ornamental carp fish that are symbols of good luck, perseverance, and transformation. However, the word koi (恋) also means 'love' or 'affection' in Japanese — a homophone that gives the name a beautiful dual meaning. As a given name, it evokes both the serene beauty of koi ponds and the Japanese concept of romantic love.
What is the origin of the name Koi?
Koi has Japanese, American, and Hawaiian origins. In Japanese, it means "carp fish; symbol of perseverance and good luck".
Is Koi a boy or girl name?
Koi is used as both a girl and boy name. As a girl name, it is ranked #3034. As a boy name, it is ranked #2684. Koi is more commonly used as a boy name.
How popular is the name Koi?
Koi is currently ranked #3034 in popularity for girl names in the United States.
What are good middle names for Koi?
Popular middle name pairings include Koi Lynn, Koi Marie, Koi Grace, Koi Renee, Koi Simone, and Koi Jade.
What are good sibling names for Koi?
Names that pair well with Koi as siblings include Kai, Suki, Ren, Mila, Sage, and River.
How many syllables does Koi have?
Koi has 1 syllable, making it easy to say and remember.
Is Koi a common or rare name?
Koi is an uncommon name, ranked #3034 in the US. Its rarity gives it a distinctive, memorable quality.
About the Name Koi
Koi is a girl name with Japanese, American, and Hawaiian origins . The name means "carp fish; symbol of perseverance and good luck" in Japanese .
Is Koi a boy or girl name? Koi is used as both a girl and boy name. As a girl name, it ranks #3,034 in popularity. As a boy name, it ranks #2,684. Koi is more commonly used as a boy name.
Koi is currently ranked #3,034 in popularity for girl names in the United States.
The name Koi has 1 syllable, making it easy to pronounce and remember.
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Sources
- U.S. Social Security Administration — National Baby Names Data (popularity rankings and historical trends)
- Behind the Name (etymology and meaning research)
- NamingEverything editorial research and analysis