“Goku (悟空) is a character from the 'Dragon Ball' series created by Akira Toriyama”
Japan origin · Boy name
♂ 97% boys♀ 3% girls
#12854US 2023
5Births / yr
↓Falling
88All-time births
📅 Since 201300
How to pronounce Goku
GOH·KOO
/ˈɡoʊ.ˈkuː/ · stress on GOH · 2 syllables
“Goku (悟空) is a character from the 'Dragon Ball' series created by Akira Toriyama”
Japan origin · Boy name
What does Goku mean and where does it come from?
Goku (悟空) is a character from the 'Dragon Ball' series created by Akira Toriyama. The name itself can be interpreted as someone who has achieved enlightenment and is ready to face challenges. The character is famous worldwide and has become a cultural icon. While Goku as a name is not commonly used
Cultural significance
Goku has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Japan-speaking communities, where it reflects values of japanese.
Peak popularity
Reached #4798 in 2020 — currently #12854 in the US.
Falling — down 5891 spots — currently #12854 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
US Trend 2015–2023#12854 · Top 9.5%
2015
2020
2021
2022
2023
Year
US Rank
Births
vs Prior Year
2023
#12854
5
▼ down 5891 · -58% births
2022
#6963
12
▲ up 304 · +9% births
2021
#7267
11
▼ down 2469 · -45% births
2020
#4798
20
▲ up 5744 · +186% births
2015
#10542
7
—
Name Popularity Timeline
Popularity Statistics for Goku
2020Rank #4798
20
#8485
→Stable
2015 - 20235 years
The story of Goku
Goku is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 2013. With 88 total births recorded, Goku remains relatively uncommon. Once ranked #10542 in 2015, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #12854 in 2023.
Goku means "Japanese" — a name rooted in Japan tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.
How popular is the name Goku?
Goku is currently a distinctive and less common name as a boy name in the US and is becoming rarer and more distinctive, making it a unique choice that stands out.
What is the cultural origin of Goku?
Goku originates from Japan tradition. Japan names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
How do you pronounce the name Goku?
Goku is a two-syllable name pronounced G OW1 K UW1. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Goku a common or rare name?
Goku is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.
Sibling names that pair with Goku
For a sister
Goku & Amaya♡
Goku & Koda♡
Goku & Kobe♡
Goku & Raiden♡
For a brother
Goku & Amaya♡
Goku & Koda♡
Goku & Kobe♡
Goku & Raiden♡
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