Find out how popular the first name Hikari has been for the last 31 years (from 1993 to 2023) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Hikari by gender

Based on the last 31 years of data, Hikari is more commonly used as a female name, with approximately 98% of people named Hikari being female.

For the most recent data in 2023, there were 12 female babies and 5 male babies born with the name Hikari.

Yes—according to the SSA data, 5 baby boys were named Hikari in 2023, despite it being a predominantly female name. We'd love to know why!

The history of the first name Hikari

Hikari is a Japanese given name that originated from the Japanese word "hikari," which means "light" or "radiance." The name has its roots in the rich cultural heritage of Japan, where it was often associated with brightness, enlightenment, and clarity.

The earliest recorded use of the name Hikari can be traced back to the 8th century CE, during the Nara period of Japanese history. It was during this time that Buddhism gained a strong foothold in Japan, and the concept of light and enlightenment held significant spiritual and philosophical meanings.

One of the earliest notable figures to bear the name Hikari was Hikari no Miko, a revered Shinto priestess who lived in the late 7th century CE. She was known for her wisdom, spirituality, and dedication to the preservation of traditional Japanese beliefs and practices.

In the 12th century, a famous Japanese poet and calligrapher named Hikari Genji gained widespread recognition for his masterful command of the written word. His works were celebrated for their beauty, depth, and skillful use of language.

During the Edo period (1603-1868 CE), Hikari became a popular name among the samurai class. One notable figure was Hikari Takeda, a skilled swordsman and military strategist who played a pivotal role in several battles throughout the 16th century.

In the 19th century, Hikari Kawaguchi was a renowned Japanese explorer and writer who embarked on a remarkable journey to Tibet. Her accounts of her travels and encounters with the Tibetan culture and people became highly influential works of literature.

Another prominent figure named Hikari was Hikari Utsunomiya, a pioneering Japanese feminist and educator who lived in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. She was a staunch advocate for women's rights and played a crucial role in advancing educational opportunities for women in Japan.

These are just a few examples of the many notable figures throughout history who have carried the name Hikari. The name's association with light, enlightenment, and clarity has endured across centuries, making it a timeless and meaningful choice for parents seeking a name with deep cultural significance.

Data source

The first name data used on this page comes from the Social Security Administration (SSA). They've been collecting data on baby names since 1880.

The history and meaning of the name Hikari was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

If you have a correction or suggestion to improve the history of Hikari, please contact us.

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