What does Tatsuo mean and where does it come from?
Tatsuo (達夫) is a traditional Japanese name commonly given to boys. The name can have various meanings depending on the kanji used. Generally, it implies a person who successfully achieves goals or is strong in character. Tatsuo has been a popular name in Japan, particularly mid-20th century, and is
Cultural significance
Tatsuo has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Japan-speaking communities, where it reflects values of the man who accomplishes (the goal).
Peak popularity
Reached #833 in 1916 — currently #746 in the US.
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Related Reading
Japan-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Tatsuo?
Tatsuo works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Tatsuo Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Tatsuo Rose
Floral · soft ending
Tatsuo Mae
Sweet · timeless
Tatsuo Claire
French influence · crisp
Tatsuo Jane
Literary · strong
Tatsuo Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Tatsuo right now?
Holding steady — currently #746 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #746 | 1,454 | ▲ up 5 · +1% births |
| 2022 | #751 | 1,434 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 2021 | #756 | 1,404 | ▲ up 2605 · +23300% births |
| 1940 | #3361 | 6 | ▲ up 133 · -14% births |
| 1930 | #3494 | 7 | ▼ down 150 · -12% births |
| 1925 | #3344 | 8 | ▲ up 377 · +14% births |
| 1920 | #3721 | 7 | ▲ up 92 · +17% births |
| 1915 | #3813 | 6 | — |
The story of Tatsuo
Tatsuo entered American naming records in 1915 and has been in use for over 109 years. With 222 total births recorded, Tatsuo remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #3813 in 1915 to #746 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Tatsuo in 1916:
Tatsuo by decade
Tatsuo peaked in the 1910s. See all 1910s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1910s | 97 | |
| 1920s ★ | 112 | |
| 1930s | 7 | |
| 1940s | 6 | |
💎Tatsuo has only 222 total recorded births since 1915 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.
What are good nicknames for Tatsuo?
What names sound and feel like Tatsuo?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Tatsuo also consider these
Common questions about the name Tatsuo
What does the name Tatsuo mean?
Tatsuo means "The man who accomplishes (the goal)" — 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 Tatsuo?
Tatsuo is currently ranked #746 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 Tatsuo?
Tatsuo 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.
What are good nicknames for Tatsuo?
Tatsuo naturally lends itself to affectionate nicknames. Shortened versions based on the first syllable are most popular, and many parents also create unique pet names that feel personal to their family.
What personality traits are associated with the name Tatsuo?
Studies on name perception suggest that Tatsuo is often associated with strength and reliability. Of course, personality is shaped by experience, not a name — but the perception can influence first impressions throughout life.