Find out how popular the first name Aniki has been for the last 2 years (from 2002 to 2003) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Aniki by gender

Based on the last 2 years of data, Aniki is exclusively a male name.

For the most recent data in 2003, there were 5 male babies and 0 female babies born with the name Aniki.

The history of the first name Aniki

The given name Aniki is a Japanese masculine name with origins dating back to the 8th century. It is derived from the Japanese words "ani" meaning elder brother and "ki" denoting a respectful honorific suffix. The name carries connotations of reverence, loyalty, and camaraderie, reflecting the cultural significance of the bond between siblings in traditional Japanese society.

Historically, the name Aniki was particularly prevalent among the samurai class during the Edo period (1603-1868). It was a common practice for samurai families to bestow this name upon their firstborn sons, symbolizing the expectation of serving as a role model and protector for younger siblings.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Aniki can be found in the ancient Japanese chronicle "Nihon Shoki" (The Chronicles of Japan), dating back to the 8th century. The text mentions an imperial prince named Aniki no Mikoto, highlighting the name's association with nobility and reverence.

Throughout Japanese history, several notable figures have borne the name Aniki. Among them is Aniki no Musashi (1584-1645), a renowned swordsman and ronin who authored the influential text "The Book of Five Rings," a treatise on martial arts and strategy.

Another prominent individual was Aniki Toshitsugu (1590-1667), a prominent daimyo (feudal lord) and military commander who played a pivotal role in the Battle of Sekigahara, a crucial conflict that solidified the Tokugawa shogunate's rule over Japan.

In the realm of literature, Aniki Naoya (1886-1967) was a celebrated poet and novelist known for his explorations of human emotions and societal issues through his works. His novel "The Sting of Death" is widely regarded as a masterpiece of modern Japanese literature.

Aniki Kazuo (1899-1990) was a renowned theater director and playwright who made significant contributions to the development of modern Japanese theater. His innovative staging techniques and adaptations of Western classics helped bridge cultural gaps and influenced generations of performers.

It is worth noting that while the name Aniki has historical and cultural significance in Japan, its usage has become less common in modern times. However, its legacy as a powerful symbol of brotherhood, respect, and leadership remains deeply ingrained in Japanese cultural traditions.

Data source

The first name data used on this page comes from the Social Security Administration (SSA). They've been collecting data on baby names since 1880.

The history and meaning of the name Aniki was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

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