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Last Name Kataoka

What is the origin of the last name Kataoka?

The last name Kataoka is of Japanese origin. It is derived from a combination of the words kata, meaning "shoulder," and oka, meaning "hill." This surname likely originated as a place name for someone who lived near or on a hill by the shoulder of a mountain.

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Learn more about the origin of the last name Kataoka

The meaning and origin of the last name Kataoka

The surname Kataoka is of Japanese origin, with "kata" meaning "shoulder" and "oka" meaning "hill." This surname is common in Japan and likely originated from someone who lived near or on a hill by the shoulder of a mountain. Surnames in Japan are often derived from geographical features, occupations, or family names. It is possible that the original bearer of the surname Kataoka was either identified by their proximity to a shoulder-shaped hill or adopted the name based on their occupation or family history. Today, the surname Kataoka is still prevalent in Japan and among Japanese communities around the world.

Geographical distribution of the last name Kataoka

The last name Kataoka is primarily found in Japan, with a high concentration in the Kanto region, specifically in the prefectures of Tokyo and Saitama. It is also present in other regions of Japan such as Osaka, Hiroshima, and Aichi. Due to historical migrations and modern movements of people, the Kataoka surname can also be found in other countries, particularly in the United States, Brazil, and Peru among others. However, the majority of individuals with the last name Kataoka are still located in Japan, where it is a relatively common surname.

Variants and spellings of the last name Kataoka

Kataoka is a Japanese surname with several variations in spelling, often due to transliteration from Japanese characters to the Latin alphabet. Some common variations include Katakana, Katayoka, Kattoka, and Kataokah. Additionally, the name may be written as 片岡 in kanji, which translates to "one hill." While the pronunciation remains largely consistent, the spelling can vary depending on personal preference or the interpretation of the Japanese characters. Despite these different spellings, individuals with the last name Kataoka are likely to have common ancestry or roots in Japan, and the name carries cultural significance within the Japanese community.

Famous people with the last name Kataoka

Some of the most famous individuals with the last name Kataoka include Hiroki Kataoka, a Japanese professional golfer known for his success on the Japan Golf Tour; Miyu Kataoka, a Japanese voice actress who has voiced characters in various anime series; and Kyusaku Kataoka, a Japanese film director and screenwriter known for his work in the horror genre. These individuals have made significant contributions to their respective fields and have gained recognition for their talents and achievements.

Genealogical research on the last name Kataoka

The surname Kataoka originates from Japan and is believed to have derived from a place name. It is commonly found in the Kansai region of Japan and is associated with individuals of Japanese descent. The surname Kataoka may have ties to the samurai class in Japanese history, as well as connections to specific geographical locations. Genealogical research on the Kataoka surname may reveal information about familial lineages, historical records, and ancestral roots. It is possible that individuals with the last name Kataoka may be able to trace their family history back several generations in Japan, providing insight into their heritage and cultural background.

Sources & References

About the author :
NomOrigine Team
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 : 11 April 2025

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