Koda

♂ Boy

Pronounced KOH-dah /ˈkoʊ.də/High

Meaning: From Lakota Sioux koda or kola meaning friend or ally; also a short form of Dakota; in Japanese koda can relate to small fieldHigh

In 30 seconds: Koda is a warm, nature-rooted name meaning 'friend' from the Lakota Sioux tradition, made famous by the Disney film Brother Bear — simple, authentic, and full of open-hearted warmth.

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Origin HighLakota Sioux, Japanese

MeaningFrom Lakota Sioux koda or kola meaning friend or ally; also a short form of Dakota; in Japanese koda can relate to small field

U.S. rank (2025)#411 ↗ Rising

2025 U.S. births778 boys (0.04% of U.S. boys)

Peak year2025

Total births (all-time)≈ 6,911

Popularity in the U.S. · SSA data

U.S. births per year (Social Security Administration, 1880–present). Pink marker = peak year.

History & Origin

Koda derives from the Lakota Sioux word koda or kola meaning friend or close companion. It is also used as a short form of Dakota, the Sioux word meaning allies or friends.

Koda gained visibility through the 2003 Disney film Brother Bear and has since grown steadily as a given name in the United States, appreciated for its short, warm sound and authentic Native American roots.

Did you know? Koda is the name of the bear cub protagonist in Disney's 2003 film Brother Bear, where the Lakota-inspired name was used for its meaning of friend — a choice that resonated deeply with audiences.

Overall data confidence 85%

U.S. Social Security Administration — popularity dataBehind the Name — Koda — etymology notes

Variations

CodaKotaDakota

Nicknames

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Famous Bearers

★Koda (Brother Bear) (fictional)
Bear cub protagonist of Disney's 2003 animated film Brother Bear, whose name means friend in Lakota.

If you like Koda…

Dakota— the parent name from the same Sioux tradition meaning allies or friends

Bodhi— shares the spiritual, nature-rooted short name with a calm, warm character

Kai— shares the short, multicultural warmth and easy cross-cultural appeal

Rio— another short, bright two-syllable name with a similar friendly, adventurous energy

Frequently Asked

What does the name Koda mean?

Koda means friend or ally from the Lakota Sioux language; it is also a short form of Dakota.

How do you pronounce Koda?

It is said KOH-dah /ˈkoʊ.də/ — two syllables, stress on the first.

Is Koda a Native American name?

Yes, Koda has roots in the Lakota Sioux language and tradition.

Is Koda popular?

Koda has been steadily rising in the U.S. since the early 2000s, boosted by the Disney film Brother Bear.