Find out how popular the first name Issey has been for the last 10 years (from 1997 to 2006) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Issey by gender

Based on the last 10 years of data, Issey is exclusively a male name.

For the most recent data in 2006, there were 5 male babies and 0 female babies born with the name Issey.

The history of the first name Issey

The name Issey has its origins in the Japanese language and culture, dating back several centuries. It is believed to be derived from the Japanese word "isshin," which means "one heart" or "single-minded." This suggests that the name Issey may have been initially given to individuals who were perceived as focused, determined, or unwavering in their beliefs and actions.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Issey can be found in the historical records of the Kamakura period (1185-1333 CE) in Japan. During this era, the Issey family was a prominent samurai clan known for their military prowess and loyalty to the Shogunate.

While the name Issey does not appear to have been mentioned in any major religious texts or scriptures, it has been associated with several notable figures throughout Japanese history. One such figure was Issey Ogata (1660-1738), a renowned Noh actor and playwright who helped popularize and preserve the traditional Japanese theatrical art form.

Another significant bearer of the name was Issey Miyake (1938-2022), a celebrated Japanese fashion designer known for his innovative and avant-garde clothing designs. Miyake's work blended traditional Japanese aesthetics with modern techniques, earning him international acclaim and numerous accolades, including the Praemium Imperiale in 2005.

In the realm of literature, Issey Sagawa (1944-present) is a Japanese writer and literary critic known for his controversial and often disturbing works exploring themes of violence, sexuality, and societal taboos. His memoir "In the Fog," detailing his experiences as a murderer and cannibal, garnered both critical acclaim and public outcry upon its publication in 1992.

Moving into the world of sports, Issey Nakajima-Farran (1984-present) is a Japanese-born Canadian soccer player who has represented both Japan and Canada at the international level. He is known for his technical skills and versatility on the field, having played in various positions throughout his career.

These are just a few examples of notable individuals who have carried the name Issey throughout history, each leaving their mark in their respective fields and contributing to the rich cultural tapestry of Japan and beyond.

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

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

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