All about the name

Naoko

Female

« Naoko is a traditional Japanese feminine given name derived from Kanji characters meaning "honest child. »

#31076 since 1900

Meaning, origin, history

Naoko is a beautiful and unique Japanese feminine given name. The name originates from the Kanji characters 直 (nao), which means "straight" or "honest," and 子 (ko), meaning "child." Therefore, Naoko translates to "honest child." The name Naoko has been used in Japan for centuries, with its first recorded use dating back to the Edo period (1603-1868). However, it gained significant popularity during the post-World War II era when many Japanese people adopted Western naming practices. Today, Naoko remains a popular choice among parents seeking a traditional yet distinctive name for their daughters. Historically, individuals named Naoko were often admired for their sincerity and integrity, attributes that align with the meaning of their name. Throughout Japanese literature and history, there have been notable figures named Naoko who have contributed to various fields such as art, literature, and politics. Some well-known examples include Naoko Takeuchi, the creator of the popular manga series "Sailor Moon," and Naoko Fujoka, a renowned novelist. Despite its widespread use in Japan, Naoko remains relatively uncommon outside of East Asia. This uniqueness adds to the charm and allure of this elegant name. If you're considering naming your daughter Naoko, you can be confident that she will carry a beautiful and meaningful name with a rich history and cultural significance.

In numbers

Popularity of the name Naoko since 1880

Total births
67
Total since 1880
Peak year
1982
9 births
in 1993
7
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
0%
vs previous 5 years