Find out how popular the first name Junko has been for the last 19 years (from 1974 to 1992) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Junko by gender

Based on the last 19 years of data, Junko is exclusively a female name.

For the most recent data in 1992, there were 5 female babies and 0 male babies born with the name Junko.

The history of the first name Junko

The name Junko is a feminine Japanese given name. It originates from the Japanese language and can be traced back to the Heian period in ancient Japan, around the 8th to 12th centuries CE. The name Junko is derived from the Japanese words "jun" meaning obedient or pure, and "ko" meaning child.

The earliest recorded instance of the name Junko can be found in classical Japanese literature and poetry from the Heian period. It was a popular name among the aristocratic class during this era. One notable figure with the name Junko was a lady-in-waiting to the Empress in the 11th century, Junko no Naishi.

In the Kamakura period, from the late 12th to 14th centuries, the name Junko continued to be used among the samurai class and noble families. A famous example is Junko Hojo, the wife of the powerful Kamakura shogun, Yoritomo Minamoto, who lived from 1147 to 1199.

During the Edo period, from the 17th to 19th centuries, the name Junko remained widespread, particularly among commoners and merchants. One notable individual was Junko Hara, a renowned Kabuki actress who lived from 1760 to 1823.

In more recent history, Junko Tabei, born in 1939, was a Japanese mountaineer and author who became the first woman to reach the summit of Mount Everest in 1975. Another notable figure was Junko Koshino, a fashion designer born in 1939, who was known for her innovative and avant-garde clothing designs.

Junko Enoshima, born in 1967, is a Japanese actress and singer who has appeared in numerous films, television shows, and stage productions. She is widely recognized for her versatility and talent in the entertainment industry.

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

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

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