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Last Name Mariko

What is the origin of the last name Mariko?

The last name "Mariko" is of Japanese origin. It is a relatively common surname in Japan and is often found in the Kagoshima and Miyazaki prefectures of Japan. The name itself may have various meanings or origins, but it is likely derived from traditional Japanese words or characters.

Learn more about the origin of the last name Mariko

The meaning and origin of the last name Mariko

The surname Mariko is of Japanese origin and is derived from the male name "Mariko". This name is composed of two elements: "husband" which means "true, sincere" and "ko" which is a common suffix for Japanese female names. Thus, Mariko can be translated as "true child" or "true child". Persons bearing Mariko's surname may be related to ancestors with Mariko's first name, or may have adopted Mariko as their last name for various reasons. This name is relatively uncommon, but can be found in different parts of Japan and in the Japanese diaspora around the world.

Geographical distribution of the last name Mariko

The last name Mariko is primarily found in Japan, with a concentration in the southern regions such as Kyushu and Okinawa. It is also present in the United States, particularly among the Japanese American community on the West Coast. Additionally, there are smaller populations of individuals with the surname Mariko in Brazil, where there is a significant Japanese immigrant population, and in other countries with Japanese diaspora communities, such as Peru and Argentina. Overall, the geographical distribution of the last name Mariko is most prevalent in Japan, followed by the United States and other countries with Japanese immigrant populations.

Variants and spellings of the last name Mariko

The variations and spellings of the last name Mariko include: Mareko, Maricko, Marikko, Meriko, Marico, Mareco, Marikow, and Marriko. These variations may differ depending on regional or cultural influences, as well as individual preference. The name Mariko is of Japanese origin and is commonly used as a surname. It is important to note that the spelling of names can vary widely and may be subject to change over time or through transliteration processes.

Famous people with the last name Mariko

Some of the most famous people with the last name Mariko include Japanese actress Kaoru Mariko, who is known for her roles in numerous films and television dramas. Another notable figure is Mariko Okada, a renowned Japanese actress who has appeared in multiple award-winning films. Additionally, Mariko Shinoda gained fame as a former member of the popular Japanese girl group AKB48 and has since pursued a successful career in acting and modeling. These individuals have made significant contributions to the entertainment industry and have garnered a large following both in Japan and internationally.

Genealogical research on the last name Mariko

The surname Mariko is of Japanese origin and is believed to have derived from a given name or a place name. It is not a very common last name, which can make genealogical research more challenging. The name Mariko may have variations or different spellings as it has been passed down through generations, and it is important to consider this when conducting research. Possible avenues to explore in tracing the Mariko family history include Japanese vital records, census documents, immigration records, and family stories or traditions. Additionally, utilizing online databases and resources specific to Japanese genealogy can help in uncovering more information about the origins and lineage of the Mariko surname.

Last name distribution maps

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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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