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Last Name Yokoi

What is the origin of the last name Yokoi?

The last name Yokoi is of Japanese origin. It is a common Japanese surname that is derived from the combination of the elements "yo" meaning "generation" and "koi" meaning "small" or "well."

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The meaning and origin of the last name Yokoi

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Geographical distribution of the last name Yokoi

The last name Yokoi is primarily found in Japan, with the highest concentration of individuals bearing this surname located in the Tokyo, Kanagawa, and Aichi prefectures. Yokoi is a relatively common surname in Japan, and is most likely of Japanese origin. It is believed to have originated from a place name, with “Yoko” meaning “horizontal” and “i” meaning “well” or “pit”, suggesting a possible association with a geographical feature such as a flat or horizontal well. In addition to Japan, there are also individuals with the last name Yokoi living in other parts of the world, particularly in the United States and Brazil where individuals of Japanese descent have settled. Overall, the surname Yokoi has a relatively limited geographical distribution, with the majority of individuals bearing this name residing in Japan.

Variants and spellings of the last name Yokoi

There are a few variations and spellings of the last name Yokoi. Some possible variations include Yoko, Yokoie, Yokoishi, Yoshikawa, and Yokuchi. In terms of spellings, Yokoi can also be spelled as Yokoie, Yokoy, Yukoi, or Yoku. These variations may reflect regional dialects, changes in pronunciation over time, or simply personal preferences when it comes to spelling the name. Despite the variations, the core root of the name remains consistent, and those with the last name Yokoi share a common heritage. Whether spelled Yokoi or one of its variations, this last name is likely to have a Japanese origin, as it is a common surname in Japan.

Famous people with the last name Yokoi

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Genealogical research on the last name Yokoi

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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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