Masa

“The name can mean 'increase' (増), 'true' (真), or 'fruit' (実), depending on the kanji used.” — Associated with growth and truth

Japan origin · Unisex name

♂ 4% boys♀ 96% girls

#1823US 2023

377Births / yr

→Stable

316All-time births

📅 Since 191900

How to pronounce Masa

MAH·sah

/ˈmɑ.sɑ/ · stress on MAH · 2 syllables

“The name can mean 'increase' (増), 'true' (真), or 'fruit' (実), depending on the kanji used.”

Associated with growth and truth · Japan origin

What does Masa mean and where does it come from?

The name Masa is commonly used in Japan and can be a short form of longer names that start with 'Mas-' such as Masako or Masumi. It is often chosen for its beautiful meanings associated with growth and truth. The name has been used historically, but its popularity has fluctuated over the decades.

Cultural significance

Masa has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Japan-speaking communities, where it reflects values of the name can mean 'increase' (増), 'true' (真), or 'fruit' (実), depending on the kanji used..

Peak popularity

Reached #3471 in 2016 — currently #1823 in the US.

🌿

What middle names flow best with Masa?

Masa works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful

Masa Grace

How popular is Masa right now?

Holding steady — currently #1823 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names

US Trend 2005–2023#1823 · Top 1.3%

2005

2010

2015

2020

2021

2022

2023

Year	US Rank	Births	vs Prior Year
2023	#1823	377	▲ up 5 · +6% births
2022	#1828	357	▲ up 5 · +9% births
2021	#1833	327	▲ up 1884 · +738% births
2020	#3717	39	▲ up 1949 · +70% births
2015	#5666	23	▲ up 5662 · +156% births
2010	#11328	9	▼ down 1800 · -18% births
2005	#9528	11	—

Name Popularity Timeline

Popularity Statistics for Masa

Best Year2023Rank #1823

Peak Count377

Average Rank#5103

Current Trend↗Rising

Data Range2005 - 20237 years

The story of Masa

Masa entered American naming records in 1919 and has been in use for over 105 years. With 316 total births recorded, Masa remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #9528 in 2005 to #1823 in 2023. Masa is used for both genders: 96% female and 4% male.

Names that peaked alongside Masa in 2016:

Emma Olivia Ava Sophia Isabella

Masa by decade

Masa peaked in the 2010s. See all 2010s names →

Decade	Births
1910s	11
1920s	5
2000s	63
2010s ★	198
2020s	39

💎Masa has only 316 total recorded births since 1919 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.

What are good nicknames for Masa?

Common

MasMasieMasy

What names sound and feel like Masa?

Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Masa also consider these

Argentina · A term of

Maya

Hebrew · Hebrew

Mana

Japan · affection, love, or

Masan

Japanese · 真, meaning 'true'

Rasa

Lithuania · Lithuanian

Tasa

India · Hindi

Common questions about the name Masa

What does the name Masa mean?

Masa means "The name can mean 'increase' (増), 'true' (真), or 'fruit' (実), depending on the kanji used." — 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 Masa?

Masa is currently a distinctive and less common name as a baby name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.

What is the cultural origin of Masa?

Masa 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 Masa?

Masa is a two-syllable name pronounced M AA1 S AA0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.

Is Masa a common or rare name?

Masa is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.