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Name Origin

Kai is a unisex given name with origins in multiple cultures. It has Hawaiian roots meaning 'sea' or 'ocean', reflecting the islands' strong connection to the water. In Japanese, Kai can mean 'shell', 'ocean', or 'forgiveness'. In Scandinavian countries, Kai is a short form of names like Kaia and Kaj, often associated with strength and resilience.

unisexhawaiianjapanesescandinaviannatureseaoceanshellforgivenessstrengthresilience

Famous People

Kai Lenny (1992-)

Professional surfer and stand-up paddleboarder

  • World Champion Stand Up Paddle Surfer (2014)
  • Numerous wins in big wave surfing competitions

Kai Greene (1975-)

Professional bodybuilder

  • 2x Arnold Classic Champion (2009, 2010)
  • Mr. Olympia runner-up (2012, 2013, 2014)

Kai Havertz (1999-)

Professional footballer

  • UEFA Champions League winner (2021)
  • FIFA Club World Cup winner (2021)

Kai Ryssdal (1963-)

Journalist and radio host

  • Host of Marketplace on American Public Media