Kai vs Steven

Baby Name Comparison — 2026

Kai

Boy #76 Most Popular 1 Syllable

Meaning

"sea"

Origin: Hawaiian

Cultural Roots

Hawaiian Scandinavian Japanese American Chinese

Quick Stats

Popularity Rank
#76
Total SSA Count
4,276
Syllables
1
Formality
Casual

Playground Safety Score

✓ All Clear
Full profile for Kai →

Popularity Comparison

Kai Rank #76
Steven Rank #269

Kai is more popular, ranked #76 vs #269 for Steven.

Popularity Over Time

Historical US popularity rank — lower number means more popular.

Middle Name Pairings

Kai ___

  • Kai James
  • Kai Alexander
  • Kai Michael
  • Kai Robert
  • Kai William
  • Kai Thomas

Steven ___

  • Steven James
  • Steven Michael
  • Steven Allen
  • Steven Paul
  • Steven Ray
  • Steven Anthony

Sibling Name Ideas

Names that pair well as siblings.

If you choose Kai

Zara Nova Mila Leo Finn

If you choose Steven

Kevin Brian Michelle Karen Jennifer

Which Name Fits Your Family?

Answer 3 quick questions and we'll help you decide.

1. Which style feels more like your family?

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Kai or Steven more popular?

Kai is more popular, ranked #76 compared to Steven at #269 in the United States.

What do Kai and Steven mean?

Kai means "sea" (Hawaiian origin). Steven means "crown, wreath" (Greek origin).

Are Kai and Steven boy or girl names?

Kai is primarily a boy name. Steven is primarily a boy name.

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← Full profile: Kai ← Full profile: Steven Browse all baby names