Origin and meaning of the name Kumiko

Kumiko is a Japanese feminine given name, derived from two kanji characters: 久 (Kumi) meaning "long-lasting" or "permanent," and 子 (Mi) meaning "child" or "daughter." It's a common name in Japan and has been used for centuries. The name can also be written using different combinations of kanji, each with slightly different meanings.

Learn more about the origin of the name Kumiko

The meaning, etymology, and origin of the name Kumiko

The given name Kumiko is of Japanese origin, specifically from the Shinto religion and folklore. The character "Kumi" (組) means 'to assemble' or 'combine', while "Ko" (子) means 'child'. Together, they symbolize a child who brings people together or unites them. This name is often given to girls born in Japan during the post-World War II era, reflecting the spirit of rebuilding and unity that prevailed at that time. Despite its ancient roots, Kumiko has gained global popularity due to its unique sound and meaningful origins, making it a beloved choice for parents worldwide seeking a distinct and significant name for their daughter.

Character traits associated with the name Kumiko

Kumiko is often characterized by her diligence, intelligence, and empathy. These qualities make her an admirable individual who excels in various aspects of life. Her diligence allows her to consistently put forth effort and dedicate herself to tasks until they are completed effectively. This trait is particularly evident in academic or professional settings where she demonstrates a strong work ethic. Kumiko's intelligence enables her to grasp complex concepts quickly, making her an asset in brainstorming sessions or problem-solving scenarios. Moreover, she exhibits empathy towards others, demonstrating a deep understanding and compassion for their feelings. This emotional intelligence allows her to build strong, meaningful relationships with those around her. Overall, Kumiko's character is defined by her commitment to excellence, intellectual prowess, and compassionate nature.

Popularity of the name Kumiko

The name Kumiko is predominantly Japanese in origin and carries significant cultural weight within that context. Historically popular in Japan, the name Kumiko peaked in usage during the mid-20th century and has since maintained consistent popularity. The name Kumiko means "child of the forest" or "forest princess," which may contribute to its appeal among Japanese parents. However, due to globalization and increased interest in Japanese culture, the name Kumiko has gained some traction beyond Japan's borders. In Western countries, it remains a relatively uncommon choice, but among Asian communities outside of Japan, it can be more prevalent. Overall, Kumiko is a well-loved and respected name within its cultural context and has a modest global presence, making it a unique and charming choice for those seeking a name with strong roots in Japanese tradition.

Famous people with the name Kumiko

Kumiko is a name that has produced notable individuals across various fields. In cinema, Kumiko Yamaguchi (born 1930) was a renowned Japanese actress who won the Best Actress award at the 23rd Venice International Film Festival for her role in "The Human Condition." Another distinguished figure is Kumiko Hidaka (1958-), a Japanese politician who served as the Minister of State for Okinawa and Northern Territories Affairs. In the realm of technology, Kumiko Sudō (born 1960) was a pioneering engineer at Sony Corporation, serving as its first female executive director. Lastly, Kumiko Okae (born 1975), also known by her stage name Yuna Ito, is a popular Japanese singer-songwriter and actress who has gained international recognition for her music. These are some of the most well-known individuals named Kumiko, each having made significant contributions to their respective fields.

Variations of the name Kumiko

Kumiko is primarily a Japanese female given name and can have several variations based on kanji characters (Chinese characters used in the Japanese writing system). The most common forms are:

1. 久美子: This reading is Kumiko, with the meaning "prosper for a long time" and "beauty child."
2. 来子: This reading can also be Kumiko, although it has a different meaning: "coming child."
3. 久美琴: Another variation of the name is Kumi-ko, where Kumi stands for "prosper for a long time" and ko means "child." The last character, 琴 (kin), can mean "zither," adding a musical touch to the name.
4. 久美香: Kumiko's kanji characters can be read as Kumi-ko or Kumikō, with the latter having an additional meaning of "fragrance."
5. くみこ: In hiragana (syllabary used in Japanese writing), Kumiko can also be written as くみこ.

Sources & References

• INSEE statistics on the first name "kumiko"
• Global distribution of the first name on Forebears.io
• Wikipedia Article

About the author :

NomOrigine Team
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 : 15 June 2025

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