What does Masaru mean and where does it come from?
Masaru (勝) is a common Japanese male name often associated with victory or excellence. The kanji used in 'Masaru' can convey meanings such as to win or to excel, signifying success in endeavors. Historically, the name has been quite popular in Japan, particularly in the mid-20th century. It is assoc
Cultural significance
Masaru has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Japan-speaking communities, where it reflects values of excellence, to exceed or become victorious.
Peak popularity
Reached #1236 in 1917 — currently #708 in the US.
🌿
Related Reading
Japan-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Masaru?
Masaru works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Masaru Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Masaru Rose
Floral · soft ending
Masaru Mae
Sweet · timeless
Masaru Claire
French influence · crisp
Masaru Jane
Literary · strong
Masaru Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Masaru right now?
Holding steady — currently #708 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #708 | 1,492 | ▲ up 5 · +1% births |
| 2022 | #713 | 1,472 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 2021 | #718 | 1,442 | ▲ up 3083 · +28740% births |
| 1935 | #3801 | 5 | ▼ down 656 · -37% births |
| 1930 | #3145 | 8 | ▼ down 1761 · -72% births |
| 1925 | #1384 | 29 | ▼ down 4 |
| 1920 | #1380 | 29 | ▲ up 270 · +53% births |
| 1915 | #1650 | 19 | — |
The story of Masaru
Masaru entered American naming records in 1912 and has been in use for over 112 years. With 448 total births recorded, Masaru remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #1650 in 1915 to #708 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Masaru in 1917:
Masaru by decade
Masaru peaked in the 1910s. See all 1910s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1910s | 139 | |
| 1920s ★ | 246 | |
| 1930s | 48 | |
| 1940s | 10 | |
| 1990s | 5 | |
💎Masaru has only 448 total recorded births since 1912 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.
What are good nicknames for Masaru?
What names sound and feel like Masaru?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Masaru also consider these
How is Masaru written in other languages?
Common questions about the name Masaru
What does the name Masaru mean?
Masaru means "excellence, to exceed or become victorious" — 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 Masaru?
Masaru is currently ranked #708 as a boy name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Masaru?
Masaru 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 Masaru?
Masaru is a three-syllable name pronounced M AA0 S AA1 R UW2. 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 Masaru?
Masaru 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.