Rei is a name of Japanese origin, derived from the kanji characters 令 which mean "command" or "order". The name Rei is often associated with the concept of order, harmony, and authority in Japanese culture.
The history of the name Rei can be traced back to ancient Japan, where it was used as an imperial title. In the Heian period (794-1185), Rei was one of the five ranks of the court hierarchy, signifying a high level of authority. Over time, the name Rei became popular among both sexes and is now commonly used as a given name in Japan.
In English-speaking countries, Rei gained popularity in the late 20th century due to its use in various forms of media. For example, it was used as the name of a character in the popular anime series "Sailor Moon," which may have contributed to its increased familiarity among Western audiences.
Today, Rei is considered a unisex name and can be found among people of various cultural backgrounds. It continues to hold its original meanings of order, harmony, and authority while also carrying a modern and international appeal.
The name Rei has seen a significant increase in popularity over the past few decades in the United States, according to the statistics provided. In 1974, there were only 5 births registered with the name Rei, but this number began to rise gradually over time.
In the late 1980s and early 1990s, the number of babies named Rei ranged from 5 to 9 per year. However, starting in 2002, there was a notable increase, with 12 births recorded that year. This trend continued, reaching a peak of 48 births in 2020 and 33 births in both 2018 and 2021.
Overall, from 1974 to 2023, there have been a total of 499 babies named Rei born in the United States. This steady rise in popularity indicates that the name Rei has become increasingly favored by parents over time.