What does Kashima mean and where does it come from?
Kashima (鹿島) is a notable Japanese name that is derived from Shinto, often associated with the Kashima Shrine in Japan, dedicated to the god of the sea. The name conveys themes of protection and prosperity. It is frequently used in various forms such as Kashimura or Kashimako. The name embodies cult
Cultural significance
Kashima has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Japan-speaking communities, where it reflects values of a god of the sea; commercial prosperity.
Peak popularity
Reached #9093 in 1976 — currently #1730 in the US.
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Related Reading
Japan-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Kashima?
Kashima works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Kashima Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Kashima Rose
Floral · soft ending
Kashima Mae
Sweet · timeless
Kashima Claire
French influence · crisp
Kashima Jane
Literary · strong
Kashima Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Kashima right now?
Holding steady — currently #1730 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #1730 | 470 | ▲ up 5 · +4% births |
| 2022 | #1735 | 450 | ▲ up 5 · +7% births |
| 2021 | #1740 | 420 | ▲ up 12171 · +8300% births |
| 1990 | #13911 | 5 | ▼ down 3913 · -17% births |
| 1980 | #9998 | 6 | ▲ up 375 · +20% births |
| 1975 | #10373 | 5 | — |
The story of Kashima
Kashima is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 1975. With 39 total births recorded, Kashima remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #10373 in 1975 to #1730 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Kashima in 1976:
💎Kashima has only 39 total recorded births since 1975 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.
What are good nicknames for Kashima?
What names sound and feel like Kashima?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Kashima also consider these
Common questions about the name Kashima
What does the name Kashima mean?
Kashima means "a god of the sea; commercial prosperity" — 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 Kashima?
Kashima is currently a distinctive and less common name as a girl name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Kashima?
Kashima 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 Kashima?
Kashima is a three-syllable name pronounced K AA1 SH IY1 M AH0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
What sibling names go well with Kashima?
Kashima pairs beautifully with sibling names that share a similar Japan heritage or complement its melodic and flowing sound. Names with a similar vibe create a cohesive sibling set without matching too closely.