Kou
Kou is a boy's name of Japanese origin.
Meaning
Depending on the kanji used, it can mean 'light', 'happiness', 'peace', or 'navigation'.
Origin and history
Kou is a masculine given name of Asian origin, appearing commonly in Japanese culture and among Hmong-American communities. In Japanese, its meaning varies depending on the kanji used, often signifying light, peace, or happiness. In the United States, it is a relatively rare name, primarily used within specific East Asian and Southeast Asian diaspora communities.
Popularity in the United States
691 babies in the United States have been named Kou since 1880. It ranks #3985 all-time.
States where it is most popular
- CA (54.4 %)
- MN (22.2 %)
- WI (22 %)
- CO (1.3 %)
Trends by decade
| Decade | Births |
|---|---|
| 1880-1890 | 0 |
| 1890-1900 | 0 |
| 1900-1910 | 0 |
| 1910-1920 | 0 |
| 1920-1930 | 0 |
| 1930-1940 | 0 |
| 1940-1950 | 0 |
| 1950-1960 | 0 |
| 1960-1970 | 0 |
| 1970-1980 | 6 |
| 1980-1990 | 323 |
| 1990-2000 | 279 |
| 2000-2010 | 63 |
| 2010-2019 | 20 |
| 2020-2029 | 0 |
Famous people named Kou
- Kou Shibasaki: Actress, Singer
Fun facts
- In Japanese, the meaning of Kou changes entirely based on which kanji character is selected to write it.
- Kou is also widely used as a given name within the Hmong diaspora in the United States.