Akira
Akira first appears in US records in 1973. It peaked in 2008, when 424 girls were given the name; in 2025 there were 257.
Source: US Social Security Administration.
Is Akira popular?
Declining Akira is given less often than it was a decade ago, well below its 2008 peak.
| 2020s | 1,378 | |
|---|---|---|
| 2010s | 2,521 | |
| 2000s | 2,625 | |
| 1990s | 955 | |
| 1980s | 288 | |
| 1970s | 50 |
Counts from US Social Security Administration data, 1880–2025.
What does Akira mean?
Akira is commonly written with a kanji meaning “bright” or “clear.”
Names like Akira
Japanese names with a similar feel and popularity.
Names that pair well with Akira
Popular Japanese names for a sibling or a middle name.
Compare Akira
Explore related names
Frequently asked questions
What does the name Akira mean?
Akira means Bright, clear. Akira is commonly written with a kanji meaning “bright” or “clear.”
What is the origin of the name Akira?
Akira is of Japanese origin.
How do you pronounce Akira?
Akira is pronounced “ah-KEE-rah.”
Is Akira a boy or a girl name?
Akira is most commonly used as a unisex name.
Is Akira a popular name right now?
Akira is given less often than it was a decade ago, well below its 2008 peak.
How popular is the name Akira?
In 2025, Akira ranked #2539 among boys’ and #983 among girls’ names in the United States, according to U.S. Social Security Administration data.
When was the name Akira most popular?
Akira was most popular in 2008, when about 424 US babies were given the name that year, according to US Social Security Administration records.
What names are similar to Akira?
Names similar to Akira include Aoi, Hikaru, Hinata, Kanata, Makoto.
What names go well with Akira?
Japanese names that pair well with Akira include Kenji, Emi, Ren, Nami, Ryu.