Koda
KOH-dah
Koda is commonly attributed to the Lakota Sioux word koda meaning “friend” or “companion.” Some sources also link it to Japanese, where koda can relate to “rice field.”
The Disney film Brother Bear (2003) featured a character named Koda, introducing the name to American audiences. Its use as a given name is largely a 21st-century development.
Koda peaked at No. 412 in 2023 with 775 births. In 2024 it ranks No. 464 with 665 births, slightly off its recent high.
What the name Koda means
Beyond Brother Bear, the name resonates with the growing interest in indigenous-inspired names. Dakota, a related name, has been popular for decades.
Two syllables - KOH-duh - are soft and open. The rounded vowels give it a gentle, approachable quality that differs from the harsher K-names like Knox or Kane.
Parents choosing Koda often cite its meaning of friendship and its connection to nature. It fits the outdoor, community-oriented aesthetic many families seek.
The name’s slight retreat from 2023 may reflect normal fluctuation rather than a lasting decline. Its strong meaning and easy pronunciation support continued use.
US popularity over time
Numerology and symbolism
Based on Pythagorean numerology — a traditional system linking name letters to numbers. Presented for cultural interest.
Koda - similar names
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