Kyaw is a male given name of Burmese origin. It is derived from the Pali language, which is used in Theravada Buddhist literature and scriptures. In Pali, "kyaw" means "first" or "to begin".
The name Kyaw has been popular among families in Myanmar for generations. It is often chosen by parents who wish to convey a sense of beginnings and new starts for their sons.
Historically, the name Kyaw has been associated with notable figures in Burmese culture and politics. For instance, Kyaw Hla Aung was a prominent Burmese politician and leader of the National League for Democracy (NLD). He played a significant role in Myanmar's pro-democracy movement during the 1980s and 1990s.
Today, Kyaw continues to be a widely used name among families in Myanmar. It is often paired with other traditional Burmese names such as Aung or Ko, which also have significant meanings. While it may not be as commonly known outside of Southeast Asia, the name Kyaw carries a deep cultural significance and a rich historical legacy.
The name Kyaw has had a steady presence in the United States over the past decade, with an average of about six births per year since 2010. However, there was a slight increase in popularity between 2010 and 2011, with seven babies named Kyaw born that year. Since then, the number of annual births has fluctuated slightly but remained relatively consistent, with five births each in 2016, 2017, and 2019.
Overall, since 2010, there have been a total of 28 babies named Kyaw born in the United States. While this is not a highly common name by any means, it has nonetheless established itself as a unique and recognizable choice among parents during this period.