What does Riko mean?
Riko often pairs the kanji for “jasmine” with “child” (子), a classic feminine ending.
What does Sumire mean?
Sumire is the Japanese word for the violet flower.
Riko vs Sumire
Which is more popular?
Riko and Sumire are given to a similar number of US babies today.
| Riko | Sumire | |
|---|---|---|
| Meaning | Jasmine child | Violet |
| Origin | Japanese | Japanese |
| Gender | Girl | Girl |
| Pronunciation | REE-koh | soo-MEE-reh |
| Syllables | 2 | 3 |
| First appeared | 2002 | 1994 |
| Peak year | 2017 (12) | 2018 (11) |
| In 2025 | 0 | 0 |
| Trend | Steady | Rising |
Popularity over time, 1880–2025
Riko
Sumire
Source: US Social Security Administration.
Births by decade
| Decade | Riko | Sumire |
|---|---|---|
| 2020s | 18 | 26 |
| 2010s | 50 | 61 |
| 2000s | 40 | 17 |
| 1990s | 0 | 10 |
Frequently asked questions
Is Riko or Sumire more popular?
Riko and Sumire are given to a similar number of US babies today.
What is the difference between Riko and Sumire?
Riko means Jasmine child (Japanese origin), while Sumire means Violet (Japanese origin).
Which name is older, Riko or Sumire?
In US records, Riko first appears in 2002 and Sumire in 1994, so Sumire has the longer recorded history.