What does Masayoshi mean and where does it come from?
Masayoshi (正義) is a Japanese male name commonly given in Japan. The name is composed of two kanji: 正 (masa) meaning 'correct' or 'just', and 義 (yoshi) meaning 'righteousness' or 'virtue'. It reflects a desirable character trait of ethical conduct. It has been a popular name for many notable figures
Cultural significance
Masayoshi has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Japan-speaking communities, where it reflects values of justice and virtue.
Peak popularity
Reached #2380 in 1918 — currently #1222 in the US.
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Related Reading
Japan-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Masayoshi?
Masayoshi works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Masayoshi Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Masayoshi Rose
Floral · soft ending
Masayoshi Mae
Sweet · timeless
Masayoshi Claire
French influence · crisp
Masayoshi Jane
Literary · strong
Masayoshi Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Masayoshi right now?
Holding steady — currently #1222 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #1222 | 978 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 2022 | #1227 | 958 | ▲ up 5 · +3% births |
| 2021 | #1232 | 928 | ▲ up 1347 · +7633% births |
| 1920 | #2579 | 12 | ▲ up 1042 · +100% births |
| 1915 | #3621 | 6 | — |
The story of Masayoshi
Masayoshi entered American naming records in 1914 and has been in use for over 110 years. With 133 total births recorded, Masayoshi remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #3621 in 1915 to #1222 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Masayoshi in 1918:
💎Masayoshi has only 133 total recorded births since 1914 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.
What are good nicknames for Masayoshi?
What names sound and feel like Masayoshi?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Masayoshi also consider these
Common questions about the name Masayoshi
What does the name Masayoshi mean?
Masayoshi means "justice and virtue" — 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 Masayoshi?
Masayoshi 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 Masayoshi?
Masayoshi 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 Masayoshi?
Masayoshi is a four-syllable name pronounced M AA2 S AA0 Y OW1 SH IY2. 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 Masayoshi?
Masayoshi 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.