Kazuo is a Japanese given name that consists of two characters. The character "Kazu" (数) means "numerous" or "many," and "O" (男) means "man" or "boy." Together, they can be interpreted as "Numerous Men" or "Many Boys," but it's important to note that in Japan, given names are not always explicitly descriptive of a person's characteristics.
The name Kazuo is relatively common in Japan and has been used for both men and women throughout history. It became more popular during the Meiji period (1868-1912) due to the influence of Chinese characters, which were used extensively during that time.
Learn more about the origin of the name Kazuo
The meaning, etymology, and origin of the name Kazuo
The name Kazuo is a Japanese name that consists of two components: "Kazu" and "O". The name "Kazu" is derived from the Japanese word "kazu," which means "number" or "amount." In a given name, it is often used as a masculine given name, meaning "many" or "large number." The suffix "-o" in Japanese names typically serves as a masculine honorific. Therefore, Kazuo translates roughly to "large number of" or "many of" something when used as a given name. Its origin can be traced back to Japan, where it has been in use for centuries.
Character traits associated with the name Kazuo
Kazuo is a name often associated with individuals who possess qualities of intelligence, perseverance, and a strong sense of empathy. These individuals are known for their analytical minds and ability to approach challenges with determination. They demonstrate a deep understanding and compassion towards others, making them good listeners and thoughtful communicators. Their introspective nature allows them to reflect deeply on complex issues, which can lead to insightful perspectives and solutions. However, they may sometimes struggle with expressing their feelings openly due to an inclination towards introspection. Overall, people named Kazuo are often seen as intellectual, compassionate, and thoughtful individuals.
Popularity of the name Kazuo
Kazuo is a Japanese given name, consisting of two characters: "かず" (kazu) meaning number, quantity, or multiple, and "雄" (ou), which refers to a male, strong, or warrior. While not as common in Japan compared to other names, Kazuo still holds a certain level of popularity. According to the Japanese Government Statistical Office, it ranked 587th among boys' names for those born in 2020, with approximately 1,334 newborns given the name. In comparison, more popular names like Taiga and Shogo were ranked much higher, with around 6,922 and 7,134 births respectively. However, the popularity of Kazuo has varied over time, reaching a peak in the late 1950s and early 1960s. Notable individuals bearing the name include novelist Kazuo Ishiguro, winner of the Nobel Prize in Literature in 2017.
Famous people with the name Kazuo
Kazuo Ishiguro is a renowned British-Japanese novelist, best known for his works exploring themes of identity, memory, and loss. Born in Nagasaki, Japan, in 1954, he moved to the UK as a child and later studied philosophy at the University of Kent. His novels include "The Remains of the Day" (1989), which won the Booker Prize, and "Never Let Me Go" (2005). "The Remains of the Day" was also adapted into an Academy Award-winning film in 1993. Another notable figure named Kazuo is Kazuo Ohno, a Japanese dancer who played a significant role in the development of Butoh, a postwar avant-garde dance form that emphasizes grotesque imagery and taboo subjects. Born in 1906, Ohno's innovative techniques continue to influence contemporary dance.
Variations of the name Kazuo
Kazuo is a Japanese given name that originates from Chinese characters and can be written using various combinations of kanji characters. Here are some common variants of the name Kazuo:
1. 一雄 (Ichirō): This is one of the most common variations, where "ichi" means "one," "ro" means "dragon," and "ou" is a suffix often used in male names that indicates strength or power.
2. 和夫 (Kazuhiro): In this variation, "kazu" retains its original meaning of "number" or "amount," while "hiro" means "broad" or "generous." This name conveys a sense of abundance and expansiveness.
3. 一雄郎 (Kazurō): This form of the name includes an additional kanji character "rō," which can mean "son" or "child." In this case, Kazuro might be used as a given name for a boy.
4. 一夫 (Kazuo): This is the most basic form of the name, consisting of the characters "ichi," meaning "one," and "hu," derived from "fū," which can mean "man" or "husband." This name suggests strength, stability, and individuality.
5. 和夫郎 (Kazurō): Similar to Kazuro (一雄郎), this form includes the additional "rō" character, but with a different reading of "hu" as derived from "fū," making it possible for both men and women to be given this name.
Passionate about genealogy, name history, and linguistics, we have been analyzing the origins of names for over 3 years. Our content is based on verified historical, etymological, and statistical data.
Last updated :
Share the origin and meaning of your name with your friends
The name "Kaz" is a unisex name and can have different origins and meanings depending on the cultural background. Here are a few possibilities:
1. Japanese: In Japanese, "Kaz" (wr...
The first name "Kazadi" is of African origin, specifically from the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Angola. It is often used by people of the Luba ethnic group. The name is be...
The name Kazembe is of Bantu origin and is commonly found among the Lozi people in Zambia and Angola. It's derived from the word "kazembe" which means "one who rules" or "chief." I...
The name "Kazi Anamul" is of Bengali origin. The name "Kazi" is a title given to someone who is a judge or a legal expert in Bengali culture. "Anamul" is a common name in Banglades...
The origin of the name Kazie is uncertain, but it is believed to be of Polish or Slavic origin. It may also be a variation of the name Kazue, which is of Japanese origin.
The origin of the female given name Kazuha is Japanese. It is a combination of two Japanese names, Katsuhiko (克彦) and Atsuko (敦子). In this case, Kazuha is formed by taking ...
The name Kazuhiro is of Japanese origin. It consists of two kanji characters: 和 (Kazu) meaning peace or harmony and 広 (Hiro) meaning wide or extensive. As such, Kazuhiro can be...
The name Kazuki originates from Japan. In Japanese, the characters 一輝 (Kazu-ki) can be broken down to "Kazu," meaning "small number" or "few," and "ki," which means "light" or ...
The name "Kazumba" does not have a specific origin or meaning as it appears to be a relatively rare and uncommon name. It is possible that it could be a variant or derived name fro...
