Find out how popular the first name Khi has been for the last 25 years (from 1999 to 2023) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Khi by gender

Based on the last 25 years of data, Khi is more commonly used as a male name, with approximately 93% of people named Khi being male.

For the most recent data in 2023, there were 16 male babies and 0 female babies born with the name Khi.

The history of the first name Khi

The given name Khi has its roots deeply embedded in the ancient Khmer language and culture, originating in the region now known as Cambodia, dating back to the 6th century AD. This moniker is believed to have been derived from the Old Khmer word 'khi,' which translates to 'crystal' or 'gemstone,' reflecting the reverence for these precious materials in Khmer society.

Khi finds prominent mention in the inscriptions and historical records of the Khmer Empire, particularly during the reign of the illustrious King Jayavarman VII in the late 12th and early 13th centuries. This monarch, renowned for his architectural prowess, adorned many of his magnificent temples and monuments with intricate carvings depicting individuals bearing the name.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Khi can be found in the ancient Khmer text, the "Reamker," a profound literary work that chronicles the epic tale of the Ramayana. Within its pages, a revered character named Khi is depicted as a wise and virtuous figure, serving as a source of guidance and inspiration for generations to come.

Throughout the annals of history, several notable individuals have borne the name Khi, leaving an indelible mark on their respective fields. Khi Neth (1908-1975) was a prominent Cambodian poet and writer, whose works celebrated the rich cultural heritage of his homeland. Khi Kosal (1915-1982), on the other hand, was a revered Buddhist monk and scholar, renowned for his profound teachings and contributions to the preservation of Khmer spirituality.

In the realm of arts and culture, Khi Bunheng (1936-2006) stands out as a celebrated Cambodian painter, whose vibrant canvases captured the essence of Khmer life and traditions with exquisite detail. Another notable figure was Khi Seng (1945-2018), a renowned Khmer classical dancer who dedicated his life to perpetuating the ancient art form and passing it on to future generations.

Finally, Khi Sovannara (1958-present) is a contemporary Cambodian artist and sculptor whose works have been exhibited globally, showcasing the enduring legacy of Khmer artistic expression to the world.

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 Khi was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

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

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