Unisex name · Japanese
Akira
“bright, clear”
Vibes
Explore Akira further
Similar-feel alternatives, or middle-name candidates that pair well with Akira — both ranked by the same scoring system (vibe overlap, syllable rhythm, origin compatibility).
About the name
Akira means bright or clear, written 明 (sun and moon together), 昭, or 晶 depending on the shade wanted. It is one of the older Japanese given names still in ordinary use, and one of the few that reads as masculine in Japan but lands as unisex almost everywhere else.
Outside Japan, Akira arrived through film — Kurosawa first, then Otomo's 1988 anime, which is why Western recognition of it runs decades ahead of Western use of it.
No short form is needed. Three syllables want a single-syllable middle (Akira Wren, Akira Blake). On our vibe map it is Modern Minimalist with Cultural Fusion running underneath.
More Japanese names
Akira sits in our Japanese set — these share its roots.
All Japanese names →Akira — common questions
Is Akira a boy or girl name?
Akira is a unisex name — it is given to boys and girls alike, and we list it that way (Japanese origin).
What does the name Akira mean?
Akira means “bright, clear” of Japanese origin. Akira means bright or clear, written 明 (sun and moon together), 昭, or 晶 depending on the shade wanted. It is one of the older Japanese given names still in ordinary use, and one of the few that reads as masculine in Japan but lands as unisex almost everywhere else.
Where does the name Akira come from?
Akira is Japanese in origin. Outside Japan, Akira arrived through film — Kurosawa first, then Otomo's 1988 anime, which is why Western recognition of it runs decades ahead of Western use of it.
How popular is Akira?
Akira ranked #983 in US Social Security Administration data for 2025, which keeps it recognisable but uncommon.
Bring the name into the room
A couple of nice things named Akira you might want for the nursery.