The name Mirai is of Japanese origin and means "future." It is a gender-neutral name that has gained popularity in recent years due to its modern and forward-thinking sound. The name Mirai is often used for both boys and girls, with the kanji characters "未来" being used to write it, which literally mean "not yet" and "come," respectively. This reflects the idea of looking towards the future with hope and anticipation.
The name Mirai has a rich history in Japanese culture and literature. It is often associated with the concept of futurism and innovation, as Japan is known for its advancements in technology and science. In addition to this, the name Mirai has also been used in popular culture, such as in the anime "Neon Genesis Evangelion," where one of the main characters is named Shinji Ikari, whose middle name is Mirai.
Overall, the name Mirai is a unique and modern choice for parents looking for a name that embodies hope, innovation, and a look towards the future. Its Japanese origin adds an exotic touch to the name, making it stand out from more traditional Western names.
The name Mirai has been steadily gaining popularity over the past two decades in the United States, with a notable increase in recent years. In 1999, there were only 6 babies named Mirai, but by 2022, that number had grown to 32 births. This represents an overall growth of more than fivefold since the late 1990s.
The year 2020 saw the highest number of newborn girls named Mirai, with a total of 45 babies receiving this name. This is a significant spike compared to previous years and indicates that the name has become increasingly popular among parents in recent times.
However, it's worth noting that despite its growing popularity, Mirai remains relatively rare compared to other names. In 2021, for instance, there were over 5,000 births of girls named Emma, the most popular girl's name that year, while Mirai had only 40 births.
Overall, these statistics show a consistent trend towards greater use of the name Mirai in recent years, suggesting that it has become more appealing to parents for some reason. However, its usage remains far from widespread compared to other popular names.