Kanari is a unique and exotic name of Japanese origin. It is derived from the word "kanari" which means "crane" in Japanese. Cranes are considered sacred birds in Japan, often associated with longevity and good fortune. The kanari name is believed to have originated during the Heian period (794-1185) when it was used as a given name for both males and females.
Throughout history, Kanari has been the name of several significant figures in Japanese culture and society. For instance, there was a famous poet named Kanari no Suganu who lived during the early Heian period. His works are considered some of the earliest examples of waka poetry, a form of traditional Japanese verse.
Today, Kanari remains relatively rare but is still used as both a given name and a surname in Japan. While its meaning may differ from more common names like "Sato" or "Nakamura," it continues to embody the grace, beauty, and wisdom associated with cranes in Japanese culture.
The name Kanari has experienced varying popularity over the past decade and a half in the United States. Between 2008 and 2023, there were a total of 106 babies born with this name.
The year 2022 saw the highest number of births for this name, with 18 newborns. This was followed by 2023, which also had a notable increase with 17 births.
However, the popularity of Kanari has not been consistent throughout these years. For instance, there were only 5 babies named Kanari in both 2008 and 2014. It's interesting to note that the name's popularity seemed to peak around 2019 with 11 births, before dropping back down slightly.
Overall, while Kanari is not one of the most common names in the U.S., it has maintained a steady presence over time, with a noticeable uptick in recent years.