Find out how popular the first name Koh has been for the last 14 years (from 2008 to 2021) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Koh by gender

Based on the last 14 years of data, Koh is exclusively a male name.

For the most recent data in 2021, there were 5 male babies and 0 female babies born with the name Koh.

The history of the first name Koh

The name Koh is believed to have originated in various regions of East and Southeast Asia, with its roots traced back to ancient times. In Chinese culture, the character for Koh (可) carries the meaning of "possible" or "acceptable," suggesting a connotation of positivity and openness.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Koh can be found in the ancient Chinese text, the Analects of Confucius, where it is mentioned as the given name of a disciple of the philosopher. This reference dates back to the 5th century BCE, underscoring the name's long-standing presence in the region.

The name Koh has also been associated with various Buddhist and Hindu traditions. In Sanskrit, the word "Koh" is believed to be derived from the root "Kau," which means "to praise" or "to honor." This connection links the name to spiritual and religious contexts, potentially indicating a reverence or respect for the divine.

Throughout history, several notable individuals have borne the name Koh. One prominent figure was Koh Shun-chen (1599-1689), a influential Chinese scholar and philosopher during the Ming and Qing dynasties, renowned for his contributions to Neo-Confucianism. Another was Koh Hung (283-343 CE), a renowned Taoist alchemist and scholar who authored the seminal work "Baopuzi," a treatise on the pursuit of immortality.

In more recent times, Koh Boon Hwee (1948-), a Singaporean entrepreneur and philanthropist, made significant contributions to the country's economic and social development. Koh Poh Koon (1963-), a Singaporean politician and former military officer, has held various cabinet positions and played a pivotal role in shaping the nation's policies.

Additionally, Koh Dong-Jin (1957-), a South Korean businessman and the founder of the Nexon Corporation, a leading video game company, has left an indelible mark on the gaming industry.

These examples illustrate the diverse backgrounds and accomplishments of individuals who have carried the name Koh throughout history, spanning fields such as philosophy, religion, business, and politics.

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

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

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