What does Takao mean and where does it come from?
Takao (高雄) is a common Japanese name, often given to boys. The meaning of the name can vary depending on the kanji characters used. The kanji '高' means 'tall' or 'high', while '雄' means 'male' or 'heroic'. The name has been used since ancient times and reflects traditional Japanese values of strengt
Cultural significance
Takao has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Japan-speaking communities, where it reflects values of tall.
Peak popularity
Reached #2229 in 1922 — currently #1552 in the US.
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Related Reading
Japan-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Takao?
Takao works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Takao Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Takao Rose
Floral · soft ending
Takao Mae
Sweet · timeless
Takao Claire
French influence · crisp
Takao Jane
Literary · strong
Takao Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Takao right now?
Holding steady — currently #1552 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #1552 | 648 | ▲ up 5 · +3% births |
| 2022 | #1557 | 628 | ▲ up 5 · +5% births |
| 2021 | #1562 | 598 | ▲ up 1930 · +9867% births |
| 1935 | #3492 | 6 | ▲ up 334 |
| 1930 | #3826 | 6 | ▼ down 1267 · -50% births |
| 1925 | #2559 | 12 | ▲ up 175 · +9% births |
| 1920 | #2734 | 11 | ▲ up 916 · +83% births |
| 1915 | #3650 | 6 | — |
The story of Takao
Takao entered American naming records in 1914 and has been in use for over 110 years. With 146 total births recorded, Takao remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #3650 in 1915 to #1552 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Takao in 1922:
💎Takao has only 146 total recorded births since 1914 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.
What are good nicknames for Takao?
What names sound and feel like Takao?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Takao also consider these
Common questions about the name Takao
What does the name Takao mean?
Takao means "tall" — 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 Takao?
Takao 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 Takao?
Takao 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 Takao?
Takao is a three-syllable name pronounced T AA2 K AA1 OW0. 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 Takao?
Takao 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.