What does Masako mean and where does it come from?
Masako (雅子) is a common Japanese feminine name. The name combines the kanji 雅 (masa) meaning 'elegant' or 'graceful' and 子 (ko) meaning 'child.' It is often used as an indication of hope for the child to lead an elegant life. The name is notable for its connection to Masako Owada, who became Crown P
Cultural significance
Masako has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Japan-speaking communities, where it reflects values of air, breeze, child.
Peak popularity
Reached #924 in 1913 — currently #813 in the US.
🌿
Related Reading
Japan-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Masako?
Masako works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Masako Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Masako Rose
Floral · soft ending
Masako Mae
Sweet · timeless
Masako Claire
French influence · crisp
Masako Jane
Literary · strong
Masako Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Masako right now?
Holding steady — currently #813 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #813 | 1,387 | ▲ up 5 · +1% births |
| 2022 | #818 | 1,367 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 2021 | #823 | 1,337 | ▲ up 3750 · +26640% births |
| 1940 | #4573 | 5 | ▼ down 2054 · -58% births |
| 1935 | #2519 | 12 | ▼ down 994 · -56% births |
| 1930 | #1525 | 27 | ▲ up 5 · -10% births |
| 1925 | #1530 | 30 | ▼ down 428 · -36% births |
| 1920 | #1102 | 47 | ▲ up 87 · +38% births |
| 1915 | #1189 | 34 | — |
The story of Masako
Masako entered American naming records in 1909 and has been in use for over 115 years. With 821 total births recorded, Masako remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #1189 in 1915 to #813 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Masako in 1913:
Masako by decade
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1900s | 6 | |
| 1910s | 293 | |
| 1920s ★ | 386 | |
| 1930s | 109 | |
| 1940s | 10 | |
| 1970s | 12 | |
| 1990s | 5 | |
💎Masako has only 821 total recorded births since 1909 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.
What are good nicknames for Masako?
What names sound and feel like Masako?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Masako also consider these
Common questions about the name Masako
What does the name Masako mean?
Masako means "air, breeze, child" — 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 Masako?
Masako is currently ranked #813 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 Masako?
Masako 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 Masako?
Masako is a three-syllable name pronounced M AH0 S AA1 K OW2. 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 Masako?
Masako 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.