Find out how popular the first name Masako has been for the last 18 years (from 1976 to 1993) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Masako by gender

Based on the last 18 years of data, Masako is exclusively a female name.

For the most recent data in 1993, there were 5 female babies and 0 male babies born with the name Masako.

The history of the first name Masako

Masako is a feminine Japanese given name composed of the elements "masa" meaning "truth" or "uprightness" and "ko" meaning "child." The name has its origins in the Heian period of Japanese history, spanning from the late 8th to the late 12th century.

The earliest recorded use of the name Masako dates back to the 11th century, when it was borne by Masako, the daughter of the prominent courtier and scholar Kintō. She lived from 1008 to 1084 and was known for her literary talents and contributions to the development of Japanese poetry.

Another historical figure with the name Masako was the wife of the celebrated Kamakura shogun Yoritomo Minamoto, who lived from 1159 to 1237. Masako was a member of the powerful Hōjō clan and played a significant role in the political affairs of the Kamakura shogunate.

In the Muromachi period, spanning from the late 12th to the late 16th century, Masako was the name of a renowned Buddhist nun and poet. Born in 1428, she was renowned for her spiritual wisdom and her skill in composing waka poetry.

During the Edo period, from the early 17th to the mid-19th century, Masako was the name of a notable courtesan and geisha in Kyoto. Known for her beauty and artistic talents, she lived from 1658 to 1732 and was celebrated in numerous works of literature and art.

Another influential figure bearing the name Masako was the wife of the last shogun of the Tokugawa shogunate, Yoshinobu Tokugawa, who lived from 1837 to 1913. Masako played a pivotal role in the events surrounding the Meiji Restoration and the transition of Japan from a feudal society to a modern nation-state.

The name Masako has maintained its popularity throughout the centuries, with numerous notable individuals bearing this name throughout Japanese history. Its enduring presence reflects the cultural significance and the aesthetic appeal of this name in Japanese society.

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

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

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