Kannon is a unique and distinctive name of Japanese origin, derived from the Buddhist bodhisattva Guan Yin, also known as Quan Yin or Kan'non in Japanese. This figure is revered throughout East Asia for her compassion towards all beings.
The name Kannon itself means "observing sound" or "perceiving sounds," which refers to the bodhisattva's ability to hear the cries of suffering and respond with mercy. In Chinese culture, Guan Yin is often depicted with a thousand hands and eyes, symbolizing her omnipresence and compassion towards all beings in need.
Throughout history, Kannon has been a popular name among both boys and girls in Japan, particularly among families with strong Buddhist affiliations or those who wish to invoke the blessings of mercy and compassion. While it may not be as common outside of East Asia, Kannon remains an attractive choice for parents looking for a unique and meaningful name.
In terms of its usage, Kannon is typically pronounced as "KAH-non" in English-speaking countries. As with many names of Japanese origin, there are several different kanji characters that can be used to write this name, each carrying slightly different meanings related to mercy, compassion, and observation.
Overall, the name Kannon carries a rich history and profound significance, making it an appealing choice for parents seeking a unique and meaningful name for their child.
The name Kannon has seen a significant rise in popularity over the past few decades in the United States. With only 6 births recorded in 1972, it was quite rare at that time. However, by 2023, there were 298 births registered with the name Kannon, marking an increase of more than fourty-eight times compared to the first year on record.
The name's popularity began to grow steadily from the late 1990s onwards. In just a span of seven years between 1997 and 2003, the number of births with the name Kannon quadrupled, jumping from 30 in 1997 to 117 in 2003.
This upward trend continued throughout the 2000s and into the 2010s. From 2003 to 2014, the number of births with the name Kannon more than doubled, climbing from 117 to 234.
Interestingly, there was a significant spike in popularity between 2016 and 2017, when the number of births with the name Kannon increased by nearly 90 babies, reaching 377 in just one year. This sudden surge could be attributed to various factors such as celebrity influence or cultural trends.
Overall, based on the available statistics, it can be observed that the name Kannon has gained significant traction in recent years and continues to be a popular choice among parents in the United States.