“陽子 - 'sun child'; or 洋子 - 'ocean child'” — Associated with Yoko Ono
Japan origin · Girl name
♂ 3% boys♀ 97% girls
#17567US 2021
5Births / yr
↓Falling
470All-time births
📅 Since 192300
How to pronounce Yoko
YOH·koh
/ˈjoʊ.koʊ/ · stress on YOH · 2 syllables
“陽子 - 'sun child'; or 洋子 - 'ocean child'”
Associated with Yoko Ono · Japan origin
What does Yoko mean and where does it come from?
Yoko is a traditional Japanese name that can have several meanings based on the kanji used to write it. The most common interpretation, 陽子 (Yoko), means 'sun child', while 洋子 (Yoko) translates to 'ocean child'. The name is widely recognized internationally, particularly associated with Yoko Ono, the
Cultural significance
Yoko has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Japan-speaking communities, where it reflects values of 陽子 - 'sun child'; or 洋子 - 'ocean child'.
Peak popularity
Reached #2677 in 1933 — currently #17567 in the US.
Falling — down 369 spots — currently #17567 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
US Trend 1935–2021#17567 · Top 13%
1935
1945
1970
1975
1980
1985
1990
1995
2000
2005
2010
2021
Year
US Rank
Births
vs Prior Year
2021
#17567
5
▼ down 369
2010
#17198
5
▼ down 6970 · -50% births
2005
#10228
10
▲ up 3129 · +67% births
2000
#13357
6
▼ down 3682 · -25% births
1995
#9675
8
▼ down 2742 · -33% births
1990
#6933
12
▼ down 1782 · -14% births
1985
#5151
14
▲ up 867 · +27% births
1980
#6018
11
▼ down 371 · +10% births
1975
#5647
10
▲ up 339 · +25% births
1970
#5986
8
▼ down 1638 · +33% births
1945
#4348
6
▼ down 232
1935
#4116
6
—
Name Popularity Timeline
Popularity Statistics for Yoko
1935Rank #4116
14
#8852
↘Falling
1935 - 202112 years
The story of Yoko
Yoko entered American naming records in 1923 and has been in use for over 101 years. With 470 total births recorded, Yoko remains relatively uncommon. Once ranked #4116 in 1935, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #17567 in 2021.
Yoko means "陽子 - 'sun child'; or 洋子 - 'ocean child'" — 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 Yoko?
Yoko is currently a distinctive and less common name as a girl name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Yoko?
Yoko 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 Yoko?
Yoko is a two-syllable name pronounced Y OW1 K OW0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Yoko a common or rare name?
Yoko is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.
Sibling names that pair with Yoko
For a sister
Yoko & Emiko♡
Yoko & Sakae♡
Yoko & Misayo♡
Yoko & Shizuye♡
For a brother
Yoko & Emiko♡
Yoko & Sakae♡
Yoko & Sabe♡
Yoko & Shigeru♡
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