Find out how popular the first name Goku has been for the last 11 years (from 2013 to 2023) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Goku by gender

Based on the last 11 years of data, Goku 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 Goku.

The history of the first name Goku

The name Goku has its origins in the Japanese language and culture, with roots dating back to the late 16th century. It is thought to be derived from the Japanese word "goku," which means "solitude" or "detachment." The name was initially associated with Buddhist monasticism and the pursuit of spiritual enlightenment through isolation and contemplation.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Goku can be found in the historical records of the Tokugawa Shogunate, where it was used by a renowned Zen Buddhist monk named Goku Sogen (1561-1625). Sogen was revered for his teachings on the principles of mindfulness and inner peace, and his writings continue to influence Buddhist thought to this day.

During the Edo period (1603-1868), the name Goku gained further prominence through the literary works of several influential authors and poets. Notably, the renowned haiku master Matsuo Basho (1644-1694) made reference to the name Goku in his celebrated travel diary, "Oku no Hosomichi," which recounts his journey through the rural regions of Japan.

In the realm of martial arts, the name Goku has been associated with several notable figures throughout history. One such figure was Goku Ryu (1824-1887), a revered master of the Shindo Muso-ryu style of swordsmanship. Ryu's teachings on the principles of discipline, focus, and spiritual cultivation through martial arts have had a lasting impact on modern practitioners.

Another prominent individual bearing the name Goku was Goku Ningyo (1874-1941), a pioneering artist and craftsman renowned for his intricate and lifelike wooden dolls. Ningyo's creations were highly sought after by collectors and connoisseurs, and his work helped to elevate the art of Japanese doll-making to new heights.

In more recent times, the name Goku has gained global recognition through its association with the iconic anime and manga series "Dragon Ball." The protagonist, Son Goku, has become a beloved and enduring character, embodying the values of perseverance, courage, and unwavering determination in the face of adversity.

While the name Goku has its roots in Japanese culture, its meaning and significance have transcended geographical boundaries, resonating with people from diverse backgrounds and inspiring a sense of inner strength and resilience.

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

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

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