In Japanese, 'San' (さん) is an honorific suffix attached to a person's name to show respect and politeness. In China, 'San' (三) is the number three, and it can also be a character representing a family name. The name is often used in cultural references and pop culture.
Cultural significance
San has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Japan-speaking communities, where it reflects values of mountain.
Peak popularity
Reached #1142 in 1950 — currently #13243 in the US.
Rising fast — up 3292 spots — currently #13243 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
US Trend 1920–2021#13243 · Top 9.8%
1940
1945
1950
1955
1960
1965
1970
1975
1980
1985
1990
1995
2000
2015
2021
Year
US Rank
Births
vs Prior Year
2021
#13243
7
▲ up 3292 · +40% births
2015
#16535
5
▼ down 1377
2000
#15158
5
▼ down 4546 · -29% births
1995
#10612
7
▼ down 4435 · -50% births
1990
#6177
14
▲ up 343 · +40% births
1985
#6520
10
▼ down 3436 · -64% births
1980
#3084
28
▼ down 908 · -28% births
1975
#2176
39
▼ down 185 · -7% births
1970
#1991
42
▼ down 263 · -2% births
1965
#1728
43
▼ down 78 · -9% births
1960
#1650
47
▲ up 135 · +34% births
1955
#1785
35
▼ down 643 · -47% births
1950
#1142
66
▲ up 892 · +267% births
1945
#2034
18
▲ up 2012 · +200% births
1940
#4046
6
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Name Popularity Timeline
Popularity Statistics for San
1950Rank #1142
66
#5514
↘Falling
1920 - 202119 years
The story of San
San entered American naming records in 1911 and has been in use for over 113 years. With 2,466 total births recorded, San remains relatively uncommon. Once ranked #5222 in 1920, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #13243 in 2021. San is used for both genders: 75% female and 25% male.
San means "mountain" — 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 San?
San 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 San?
San 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 San?
San is a one-syllable name pronounced S AE1 N. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
How does San sound with different last names?
As a one-syllable name, San flows best with last names of two or three syllables. Avoid last names ending in the same sound as San ends, as this can create an unwanted rhyme. Test by saying the full name out loud several times.
Sibling names that pair with San
For a sister
San & Kimera♡
San & Nekki♡
San & Toki♡
San & Yuko♡
For a brother
San & Toki♡
San & Mano♡
San & Amaya♡
San & Noren♡
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