Find out how popular the first name Riken has been for the last 1 years (from 2008 to 2008) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Riken by gender

Based on the last 1 years of data, Riken is exclusively a male name.

For the most recent data in 2008, there were 6 male babies and 0 female babies born with the name Riken.

The history of the first name Riken

The name Riken has its origins in the Japanese language and culture. It is a masculine given name that has been in use for centuries. The name is derived from the Japanese words "ri" meaning "truth" and "ken" meaning "sword" or "blade." Together, the name can be interpreted to mean "truth sword" or "truthful blade."

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Riken dates back to the 12th century during the Kamakura period in Japan. It is believed that the name was initially used by samurai warriors, reflecting their commitment to honor, truth, and the way of the sword.

In Japanese folklore and mythology, the name Riken has been associated with various legendary figures and tales of bravery and heroism. One such figure is Riken no Kenshi, a skilled swordsman from the 14th century who was renowned for his mastery of the sword and his unwavering pursuit of truth and justice.

Throughout history, several notable individuals have borne the name Riken. One of the earliest recorded was Riken Seikyo (1179-1259), a Buddhist monk and scholar who played a significant role in the development of Zen Buddhism in Japan.

Another prominent figure with the name Riken was Riken Akiba (1661-1738), a renowned mathematician and astronomer who made significant contributions to the field of celestial mechanics and the study of comets.

In the 19th century, Riken Nishina (1892-1951) was a pioneering Japanese physicist who made important contributions to the field of nuclear physics, particularly in the study of cosmic rays and the development of particle accelerators.

During the Meiji era, Riken Yokoyama (1836-1898) was a prominent statesman and diplomat who played a crucial role in the modernization and westernization of Japan. He served as the Minister of Foreign Affairs and helped establish Japan's position on the international stage.

More recently, Riken Yamamoto (1945-2018) was a celebrated Japanese architect known for his innovative and sustainable designs, including the iconic Hiroshima City Museum of Contemporary Art.

These are just a few examples of notable individuals who have carried the name Riken throughout history, reflecting its enduring legacy and association with truth, honor, and excellence in various fields.

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

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

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