All about the name

Kiva

Female

« Kiva is a unique Hebrew given name derived from "kevah," meaning "gathering. »

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Meaning, origin, history

Kiva is a unique and distinctive given name of Hebrew origin. It is derived from the Hebrew word "kevah," which means "gathering" or "assembly." In the context of the Old Testament, Kivah refers to the congregation of Israelites who assembled at Mount Sinai. The name Kiva gained popularity in recent times due to its association with prominent individuals such as Kiva Allgood, a renowned actress and theater director, and Kiva Spencer, an American-Israeli singer-songwriter. However, it is essential to note that these figures did not influence the meaning or origin of the name; rather, they contributed to its recognition and popularity. Kiva is considered a unisex name, although it is more commonly used for females. Despite being relatively uncommon compared to other Hebrew names like Sarah or Rachel, Kiva has been gaining traction as parents seek unique yet meaningful monikers for their children. In some cultures, such as the Apache Native American tribe, the name Kiva also holds significance but with a different meaning. Among the Apache, Kiva is believed to refer to an underground chamber used for ceremonial purposes, which is known as a "kiva" in their language. Overall, the name Kiva offers an appealing blend of rarity and historical significance, making it an attractive choice for parents looking for a distinctive yet meaningful name for their child.

In numbers

Popularity of the name Kiva since 1880

Total births
797
Total since 1880
Peak year
1974
30 births
in 2023
16
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
+28% ↗
vs previous 5 years