What does Masashi mean and where does it come from?
Masashi (まさし) is a common male name in Japan, often associated with the kanji 正 which means 'correct' or 'righteous.' The name has variations depending on the kanji characters chosen to spell it, which can change its meaning. It has been borne by various notable figures, including Masashi Kishimoto,
Cultural significance
Masashi has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Japan-speaking communities, where it reflects values of meaning 'eagle', 'warrior', or 'ambition' depending on kanji used..
Peak popularity
Reached #2452 in 1924 — currently #1146 in the US.
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Related Reading
Japan-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Masashi?
Masashi works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Masashi Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Masashi Rose
Floral · soft ending
Masashi Mae
Sweet · timeless
Masashi Claire
French influence · crisp
Masashi Jane
Literary · strong
Masashi Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Masashi right now?
Holding steady — currently #1146 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #1146 | 1,054 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 2022 | #1151 | 1,034 | ▲ up 5 · +3% births |
| 2021 | #1156 | 1,004 | ▲ up 7857 · +19980% births |
| 1995 | #9013 | 5 | ▼ down 5565 · -29% births |
| 1930 | #3448 | 7 | ▼ down 341 · -22% births |
| 1920 | #3107 | 9 | ▼ down 108 · +13% births |
| 1915 | #2999 | 8 | — |
The story of Masashi
Masashi entered American naming records in 1913 and has been in use for over 111 years. With 146 total births recorded, Masashi remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #2999 in 1915 to #1146 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Masashi in 1924:
Masashi by decade
Masashi peaked in the 1920s. See all 1920s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1910s | 42 | |
| 1920s ★ | 74 | |
| 1930s | 7 | |
| 1980s | 13 | |
| 1990s | 10 | |
💎Masashi has only 146 total recorded births since 1913 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.
What are good nicknames for Masashi?
What names sound and feel like Masashi?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Masashi also consider these
Common questions about the name Masashi
What does the name Masashi mean?
Masashi means "meaning 'eagle', 'warrior', or 'ambition' depending on 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 Masashi?
Masashi is currently a distinctive and less common name 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 Masashi?
Masashi 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 Masashi?
Masashi is a three-syllable name pronounced M AA1 Z AE1 Z HH AY1. 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 Masashi?
Masashi 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.