What does Yoshikatsu mean and where does it come from?
Yoshikatsu (義勝) is a traditional Japanese name that combines 'Yoshi' (義), meaning 'righteousness' or 'justice,' and 'katsu' (勝), meaning 'to win' or 'victory.' This name has been historically popular in Japan among samurai families and many historical figures have borne this name. While traditional,
Cultural significance
Yoshikatsu has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Japan-speaking communities, where it reflects values of good fortune or victory.
Peak popularity
Reached #4812 in 1918 — currently #1822 in the US.
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Related Reading
Japan-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Yoshikatsu?
Yoshikatsu works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Yoshikatsu Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Yoshikatsu Rose
Floral · soft ending
Yoshikatsu Mae
Sweet · timeless
Yoshikatsu Claire
French influence · crisp
Yoshikatsu Jane
Literary · strong
Yoshikatsu Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Yoshikatsu right now?
Holding steady — currently #1822 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #1822 | 378 | ▲ up 5 · +6% births |
| 2022 | #1827 | 358 | ▲ up 5 · +9% births |
| 2021 | #1832 | 328 | — |
The story of Yoshikatsu
Yoshikatsu entered American naming records in 1918 and has been in use for over 106 years. With 5 total births recorded, Yoshikatsu remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #1832 in 2021 to #1822 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Yoshikatsu in 1918:
💎Yoshikatsu has only 5 total recorded births since 1918 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.
What are good nicknames for Yoshikatsu?
What names sound and feel like Yoshikatsu?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Yoshikatsu also consider these
Common questions about the name Yoshikatsu
What does the name Yoshikatsu mean?
Yoshikatsu means "good fortune or victory" — 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 Yoshikatsu?
Yoshikatsu 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 Yoshikatsu?
Yoshikatsu 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 Yoshikatsu?
Yoshikatsu is a four-syllable name pronounced Y OW1 SH IY0 K AA1 T S UW1. 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 Yoshikatsu?
Yoshikatsu 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.