Rei is a name of Japanese origin, derived from the kanji characters "rei" which mean "command" or "order". It is often used as a given name for both boys and girls in Japan.
The name Rei has a rich history in Japanese culture and tradition. In the Shinto religion, Rei is one of the seven heavenly virtues, along with other qualities such as courage, politeness, and wisdom. This association has made the name popular among parents who wish to instill these positive traits in their children.
In literature, the name Rei has been used prominently in several works. For instance, it was the given name of one of the main characters in Haruki Murakami's novel "Kafka on the Shore". Additionally, Rei Toyama is a prominent character in the anime series "Sword Art Online".
Overall, Rei is a unique and captivating name with a rich history and cultural significance. Its meaning and origins make it an appealing choice for parents looking for a distinctive name for their child.
The name Rei experienced a significant increase in popularity between the years 2015 and 2021, with a total of 186 births during this period compared to only 70 births from 1987 to 2014. The peak occurred in 2021 with 34 births, followed by 30 in 2019 and 28 in 2018. However, it is important to note that the overall trend appears to be declining since 2017.