Aiko

Girl Name #2,398 Most Popular Hidden Gem 3 Syllables

A Japanese classic meaning cherished and beloved child

Japanese American Korean

Elegant Classic Gentle Sophisticated Traditional

Meaning & Origin

"little one who is loved"

Origin: Japanese

Language: English

The Story of Aiko

Aiko is a classic Japanese feminine name combining 'ai' (愛, love or affection) with 'ko' (子, child). The '-ko' suffix was one of the most common feminine name endings in Japan throughout the 20th century, appearing in names like Keiko, Sachiko, and Hanako. Together, Aiko means 'beloved child' or 'love child' in the purest sense — a child who is cherished.

Aiko has been popular in Japan for generations and gained international visibility through Princess Aiko of Japan, daughter of Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako, born in 2001. In the West, it's recognized as one of the most accessible and beautiful Japanese names.

In Japanese culture, the '-ko' (child) suffix in girls' names has been traditional for centuries, reflecting a cultural emphasis on the precious nature of childhood. Princess Aiko is the most famous current bearer of the name — her place in the Japanese imperial succession has been the subject of considerable public discussion.

Fun Facts

Princess Aiko of Japan, born in 2001, is the only child of Emperor Naruhito and has been at the center of debates about female succession to the Chrysanthemum Throne
The 'ai' (愛) character meaning love is one of the most popular kanji used in Japanese girls' names

Aiko in Other Languages

French Aiko

Korean 아이코

Chinese 爱子

Spanish Aiko

Japanese 愛子

Famous People Named Aiko

Princess Aiko of Japan

Royalty

2001

Only child of Emperor Naruhito and Empress Masako, a central figure in Japanese succession debates

Jhené Aiko

Musician

1988

American R&B singer known for introspective, soulful music; born Jhené Aiko Efuru Chilombo

Aiko (Musician)

Musician

1975

Japanese R&B and soul singer known as one of Japan's premier jazz-influenced vocalists

Quick Facts

Gender: Girl
Syllables: 3
Popularity Rank: #2,398
Total SSA Count: 76
Cultural Origins: Japanese American Korean
Pronunciation: Moderate
Formality: Moderate
Cross-Cultural Ease: Moderate

Common Nicknames

Ai Ko

Pairs Well With

Aiko Marie Aiko Grace Aiko Rose Aiko Elise Aiko June Aiko Pearl Aiko Naomi

Sibling Names

Keiko Hana Yuki Akira Naomi Miko Ryu

Also a Boy Name

Aiko is also used as a boy name, ranked #10540.

View Aiko as a boy name →

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Kid-Friendly

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Frequently Asked Questions About Aiko

What does the name Aiko mean?

"little one who is loved" (from Japanese). Aiko is a classic Japanese feminine name combining 'ai' (愛, love or affection) with 'ko' (子, child). The '-ko' suffix was one of the most common feminine name endings in Japan throughout the 20th century, appearing in names like Keiko, Sachiko, and Hanako. Together, Aiko means 'beloved child' or 'love child' in the purest sense — a child who is cherished.

What is the origin of the name Aiko?

Aiko has Japanese, American, and Korean origins. In Japanese, it means "little one who is loved".

Is Aiko a boy or girl name?

Aiko is used as both a girl and boy name. As a girl name, it is ranked #2398. As a boy name, it is ranked #10540. Aiko is more commonly used as a girl name.

How popular is the name Aiko?

Aiko is currently ranked #2398 in popularity for girl names in the United States.

What are common nicknames for Aiko?

Common nicknames for Aiko include Ai and Ko.

What are good middle names for Aiko?

Popular middle name pairings include Aiko Marie, Aiko Grace, Aiko Rose, Aiko Elise, Aiko June, Aiko Pearl, and Aiko Naomi.

What are good sibling names for Aiko?

Names that pair well with Aiko as siblings include Keiko, Hana, Yuki, Akira, Naomi, Miko, and Ryu.

How many syllables does Aiko have?

Aiko has 3 syllables, making it distinctive and rhythmic.

Is Aiko a common or rare name?

Aiko is an uncommon name, ranked #2398 in the US. Its rarity gives it a distinctive, memorable quality.

About the Name Aiko

Aiko is a girl name with Japanese, American, and Korean origins . The name means "little one who is loved" in Japanese .

Is Aiko a boy or girl name? Aiko is used as both a girl and boy name. As a girl name, it ranks #2,398 in popularity. As a boy name, it ranks #10,540. Aiko is more commonly used as a girl name.

Aiko is currently ranked #2,398 in popularity for girl names in the United States.

The name Aiko has 3 syllables, making it distinctive and memorable.

Common nicknames for Aiko include Ai and Ko. These shorter forms provide casual alternatives while keeping the elegance of the full name.