What does Takeshi mean and where does it come from?
Takeshi is traditionally a masculine name in Japan, meaning 'warrior' or 'strong'. It is commonly given to boys, but as naming conventions evolve, some parents may choose the name for girls as well, especially in the context of modern, gender-neutral names. The name gained popularity through famous
Cultural significance
Takeshi has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Japan-speaking communities, where it reflects values of 武士, meaning 'warrior'..
Peak popularity
Reached #9500 in 1976 — currently #1223 in the US.
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Related Reading
Japan-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Takeshi?
Takeshi works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Takeshi Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Takeshi Rose
Floral · soft ending
Takeshi Mae
Sweet · timeless
Takeshi Claire
French influence · crisp
Takeshi Jane
Literary · strong
Takeshi Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Takeshi right now?
Holding steady — currently #1223 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #1223 | 977 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 2022 | #1228 | 957 | ▲ up 5 · +3% births |
| 2021 | #1233 | 927 | — |
The story of Takeshi
Takeshi is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 1976. With 702 total births recorded, Takeshi remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #1233 in 2021 to #1223 in 2023. Takeshi is used for both genders: 1% female and 99% male.
Names that peaked alongside Takeshi in 1976:
Takeshi by decade
Takeshi peaked in the 1970s. See all 1970s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1910s | 117 | |
| 1920s ★ | 270 | |
| 1930s | 75 | |
| 1940s | 8 | |
| 1960s | 7 | |
| 1970s | 32 | |
| 1980s | 42 | |
| 1990s | 29 | |
| 2000s | 66 | |
| 2010s | 51 | |
| 2020s | 5 | |
💎Takeshi has only 702 total recorded births since 1976 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.
What are good nicknames for Takeshi?
What names sound and feel like Takeshi?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Takeshi also consider these
How is Takeshi written in other languages?
Common questions about the name Takeshi
What does the name Takeshi mean?
Takeshi means "武士, meaning 'warrior'." — 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 Takeshi?
Takeshi 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 Takeshi?
Takeshi 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 Takeshi?
Takeshi is a three-syllable name pronounced T AH0 K EH1 SH IY0. 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 Takeshi?
Takeshi 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.