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Yasuke

Boy nameJapan origin#12179 in popularityTop 9.0% Rising fast — up 88 spots

八介 or やすけ meaning 'eight' and 'help'

🔊 Y AA1 S UW1 K EH1

Meaning and Origin

Yasuke (八介) is most famously known as an African samurai who served under the Japanese warlord Oda Nobunaga in the late 16th century. His arrival in Japan is generally believed to have occurred in 1579, and he was noted for being the first foreign-born samurai. His legacy has found representation in

Yasuke has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Japan-speaking communities, where it reflects values of 八介 or やすけ meaning 'eight' and 'help'.

Popularity Over Time

+88
Rank Change
vs. previous year
6
Babies Born
in 2023
-25%
Birth Rate Change
20212023
Top 9.0%
Popularity
out of 135.5k names
#9664
2021
#12267
2022
#12179
2023
YearRankBirthsChange
2023#121796↑88 rank
2022#122676↓2603 rank · -25% births
2021#96648

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Frequently Asked Questions

What does the name Yasuke mean?

Yasuke means "八介 or やすけ meaning 'eight' and 'help'" — 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 Yasuke?

Yasuke is currently a distinctive and less common name as a boy name in the US and is becoming rarer and more distinctive, making it a unique choice that stands out.

What is the cultural origin of Yasuke?

Yasuke 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 Yasuke?

Yasuke is a three-syllable name pronounced Y AA1 S UW1 K EH1. 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 Yasuke?

Yasuke 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.