K

Kotaro

Boy nameJapan origin#10307 in popularityTop 7.6% Rising fast — up 3156 spots

small

🔊 K AA1 T AA1 R OW0

Meaning and Origin

Kotaro (小太郎) is a traditional Japanese name typically given to boys. The name combines the characters 小 (ko), meaning 'small' or 'little,' and 太郎 (taro), which often signifies 'eldest son' or a more general concept of 'boy' in this context. The name is popular in Japan and has historical roots in th

Kotaro has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Japan-speaking communities, where it reflects values of japanese.

Popularity Over Time

+3156
Rank Change
vs. previous year
7
Babies Born
in 2023
+40%
Birth Rate Change
20192023
Top 7.6%
Popularity
out of 135.5k names
#13238
2019
#11376
2020
#13463
2022
#10307
2023
YearRankBirthsChange
2023#103077↑3156 rank · +40% births
2022#134635↓2087 rank · -17% births
2020#113766↑1862 rank · +20% births
2019#132385

Similar Names

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the name Kotaro mean?

Kotaro 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 Kotaro?

Kotaro is currently a distinctive and less common name as a boy name in the US and is rapidly gaining popularity — searches for Kotaro have increased significantly in recent years.

What is the cultural origin of Kotaro?

Kotaro 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 Kotaro?

Kotaro is a three-syllable name pronounced K AA1 T AA1 R OW0. 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 Kotaro?

Kotaro 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.