Find out how popular the first name Aoto has been for the last 7 years (from 2017 to 2023) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Aoto by gender

Based on the last 7 years of data, Aoto is exclusively a male name.

For the most recent data in 2023, there were 5 male babies and 0 female babies born with the name Aoto.

The history of the first name Aoto

The name Aoto is believed to have originated from the Japanese language, with its roots tracing back to the early 8th century AD, during the Nara period. The name is derived from the Japanese words "ao," meaning blue, and "to," meaning door or gateway. Together, the name Aoto can be interpreted as "blue gateway" or "blue entrance."

In ancient Japanese folklore, the color blue was associated with the spiritual realm and was believed to have mystical properties. The concept of a "blue gateway" may have symbolized a portal to a higher plane of existence or a pathway to enlightenment. This spiritual connotation likely contributed to the name's popularity among the Japanese nobility and Buddhist clergy of the time.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Aoto can be found in the historical chronicle "Nihon Shoki," which dates back to the early 8th century. This text mentions an individual named Aoto no Sukune, who was a legendary warrior and court official during the reign of Emperor Tenmu.

Throughout the centuries, the name Aoto has been carried by several notable figures in Japanese history. One such individual was Aoto Tsunenori, a 14th-century samurai and military strategist who served under the Ashikaga shogunate. His exploits are documented in the "Taiheiki," a historical narrative of the Nanboku-chō period.

In the 16th century, Aoto Hirosada was a prominent daimyo (feudal lord) who ruled over the Aoto Domain in modern-day Miyazaki Prefecture. He played a significant role in the military campaigns of the Sengoku period and was known for his loyalty to the Ōtomo clan.

During the Edo period (1603-1868), Aoto Kuzunari was a respected scholar and calligrapher who contributed to the preservation and promotion of traditional Japanese arts and culture. His calligraphic works are still revered today and can be found in various museums and collections.

In more recent times, Aoto Jiro (1887-1973) was a renowned Japanese painter and printmaker who gained international recognition for his woodblock prints depicting traditional Japanese landscapes and scenes from everyday life. His works are celebrated for their intricate details and vivid colors, capturing the essence of Japan's natural beauty and cultural heritage.

While the name Aoto may not be as common in contemporary times, its rich historical significance and spiritual undertones continue to resonate within Japanese culture, serving as a testament to the enduring legacy of this ancient name.

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 Aoto was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

If you have a correction or suggestion to improve the history of Aoto, please contact us.

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