Kaito is a unique and captivating male given name of Japanese origin. The name is derived from the kanji characters "海" (kai), meaning "sea", and "斗" (to), signifying "constellation". Therefore, Kaito translates to "sea constellation".
The use of the character "海" in a personal name is quite rare, making Kaito stand out as a distinctive choice. However, its roots in Japanese astronomy and nature make it an appealing option for parents seeking a meaningful name with a connection to their cultural heritage or simply appreciating its unique sound.
Historically, Kaito was not a common name in Japan until recent decades when it began to gain popularity among new generations of parents who were drawn to its rarity and significance. Today, while still relatively uncommon, Kaito can be found among young boys born in Japan and other parts of the world where Japanese culture has had an influence.
In terms of pronunciation, Kaito is typically pronounced as "KYEE-toh", with the stress falling on the first syllable. The name's unique sound, combined with its rich meaning and Japanese heritage, makes it a memorable choice for parents looking for something distinctive and meaningful for their child.
The name Kaito has seen a steady increase in popularity over the past three decades in the United States. In 1994, there were only five recorded births with the name Kaito. However, by 2023, that number had increased to 65 births.
The years 2000 and 2001 marked a significant turning point for the name Kaito, with 24 and 32 births respectively. This was more than double the number of births recorded in the previous two years (18 in 1999 and 17 in 2000).
Between 2005 and 2010, there were consistent increases in the number of babies named Kaito each year, ranging from 36 to 46 births annually. This trend continued through 2014, with at least 40 births per year.
In recent years, the popularity of the name Kaito has surged even further. Between 2017 and 2022, there were at least 44 births each year, peaking at 84 births in 2022.
Overall, since 1994, there have been a total of 1089 babies named Kaito born in the United States. This steady growth in popularity over nearly three decades is indicative of its enduring appeal as a name choice for parents.