Kayori is a feminine given name of Japanese origin. It is composed of two kanji characters: "海" (kai), which means "sea," and "央" (ou), which means "center." Thus, the name Kayori translates to "the center of the sea." The name is not particularly common in Japan, but it is considered unique and elegant.
The earliest record of the name Kayori appears in a collection of Japanese poems called the Man'yoshu, which was compiled during the Nara period (710-794). In one poem, a woman named Kayori is mentioned as a beautiful dancer who enchanted all who watched her perform. This historical reference suggests that the name Kayori has been in use for centuries and was once associated with grace and artistry.
In recent years, there have been no notable individuals named Kayori who have gained widespread recognition or popularity. However, this does not diminish the uniqueness and charm of the name. Those who choose to give their daughter the name Kayori are likely drawn to its elegant sound and meaningful translation, as well as its historic roots in Japanese culture.
In conclusion, Kayori is a rare but beautiful feminine given name of Japanese origin. Its meaning, "the center of the sea," adds depth and intrigue to the name, while its historical association with grace and artistry further enhances its appeal. Though not widely used today, those who choose the name Kayori are likely doing so for its unique combination of elegance, history, and cultural significance.
The name Kayori has seen a significant increase in popularity over the past decade in the United States. In 2006, there were only 6 babies named Kayori, but this number doubled by 2022 with 49 newborns given the name. The year 2023 saw an even more substantial jump, with a total of 153 births recorded for the name Kayori since 2006.
The data reveals a steady growth in popularity from 7 births in 2009 to 15 births in 2019. However, it was between 2020 and 2023 that the name Kayori experienced its most significant surge in popularity, with an increase from 13 births in 2020 to 49 in 2022, followed by a substantial leap to 153 births in 2023.
This trend suggests that more parents are choosing the name Kayori for their children, contributing to its growing popularity over time. It will be interesting to see if this upward trend continues in future years and whether Kayori becomes one of the more common names among newborns in the United States.