Everything about the name KOEN

Meaning, origin, history

Koen is a Dutch given name for boys that has gained popularity in recent years not only in the Netherlands but also in other European countries such as Belgium and Germany. The name Koen is derived from the Dutch word 'koen' which means 'bold' or 'courageous'. It is often associated with strength, bravery, and determination.

The name Koen has a long history dating back to the Middle Ages when it was used by various noble families in the Netherlands. One of the most notable figures bearing this name was Koenraad II, Duke of Guelders who ruled from 1343 until his death in 1379. He is remembered for expanding the territory of his duchy and defending it against invasions.

In addition to its historical significance, the name Koen has also been popularized by contemporary figures such as Koen Wessing, a renowned Dutch photographer known for his candid photographs capturing social events and conflicts during the 1960s and 1970s. Today, Koen remains a strong and distinctive choice for parents looking for a unique yet meaningful name for their baby boy.

Popularity of the name KOEN since 1880

Birth evolution

Popularity analysis

The name Koen has seen a significant increase in popularity over the past two decades in the United States. In 1996, only five babies were named Koen at birth. However, by 2022, that number had grown to an impressive 466 births, marking a staggering 87-fold increase.

The trend of naming newborns Koen began to accelerate in the early 2000s. Between 2002 and 2005, the number of babies named Koen quadrupled, from 62 to 233 births annually. This steep rise suggests that the name gained considerable traction among parents during this period.

Despite a brief dip in popularity between 2017 and 2019, with birth numbers ranging from 147 to 162, Koen has maintained its status as a popular choice for parents. In fact, since 2020, the name's popularity has surged even further, with 310 births in 2021 and an impressive 466 births in 2023.

In total, over the past 27 years, from 1996 to 2023, there have been 4,317 babies named Koen born in the United States. This steady increase in popularity demonstrates that Koen has become a well-established and favored name among American parents.