Unknown; popularized by fictional lore
The name has no established etymological root in traditional languages and was created for the Star Wars franchise. It is most famously associated with the character Obi-Wan Kenobi, serving as a surname that has transitioned into a rare given name for fans of the series. Its phonetic structure suggests a Japanese influence, though it is not a standard Japanese name.
Less common today
Kenobi isn't in the latest US Top 1000. It last peaked at #5,872 in 2022.
US births per 5-year period, 1990βpresent (SSA data).
Legendary Jedi Master and mentor Β· Star Wars