What does Katura mean and where does it come from?
The name Katura (かつら) has Japanese origins and can mean 'wig' in one context, but it is also associated with names of trees and flowers when different kanji are used. The name has become known more in Western contexts as a unique name choice due to its melodic sound. Its usage has spread into Americ
Cultural significance
Katura has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Japanese-speaking communities, where it reflects values of japanese.
Peak popularity
Reached #6156 in 1981 — currently #532 in the US.
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Related Reading
Japanese-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Katura?
Katura works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Katura Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Katura Rose
Floral · soft ending
Katura Mae
Sweet · timeless
Katura Claire
French influence · crisp
Katura Jane
Literary · strong
Katura Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Katura right now?
Holding steady — currently #532 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #532 | 1,668 | ▲ up 5 · +1% births |
| 2022 | #537 | 1,648 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 2021 | #542 | 1,618 | ▲ up 16435 · +32260% births |
| 2005 | #16977 | 5 | ▼ down 8788 · -58% births |
| 2000 | #8189 | 12 | ▲ up 5781 · +140% births |
| 1995 | #13970 | 5 | ▼ down 4376 · -37% births |
| 1990 | #9594 | 8 | ▲ up 291 · +33% births |
| 1985 | #9885 | 6 | ▼ down 2065 · -25% births |
| 1980 | #7820 | 8 | ▼ down 898 |
| 1975 | #6922 | 8 | — |
The story of Katura
Katura is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 1968. With 195 total births recorded, Katura remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #6922 in 1975 to #532 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Katura in 1981:
Katura by decade
Katura peaked in the 1980s. See all 1980s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1960s | 10 | |
| 1970s | 45 | |
| 1980s ★ | 71 | |
| 1990s | 46 | |
| 2000s | 23 | |
💎Katura has only 195 total recorded births since 1968 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.
What are good nicknames for Katura?
What names sound and feel like Katura?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Katura also consider these
Common questions about the name Katura
What does the name Katura mean?
Katura means "Japanese" — a name rooted in Japanese 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 Katura?
Katura is currently ranked #532 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 Katura?
Katura originates from Japanese tradition. Japanese 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 Katura?
Katura is a three-syllable name pronounced K AA1 T UW1 R AA1. 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 Katura?
Katura pairs beautifully with sibling names that share a similar Japanese heritage or complement its melodic and flowing sound. Names with a similar vibe create a cohesive sibling set without matching too closely.