Mitsuko Girl
Name Meaning & Origin Pronunciation: MEET-soo-koh /miːtsuːkoʊ/
Origin: Japanese
Meaning: child of light
Historical & Cultural Background
The name Mitsuko is of Japanese origin, derived from the elements "mitsu," meaning "light" or "radiance," and "ko," which translates to "child" or "daughter." This construction reflects a common pattern in Japanese names where the first part often denotes a quality or virtue, while the second part indicates a familial relationship. The name can be traced back to the use of kanji characters in Japan, where names often carry significant meanings based on their written forms.
The earliest recorded use of such names in Japan dates back to the Nara period (710-794 CE), when the adoption of Chinese characters began to influence Japanese naming conventions. Historically, the name Mitsuko and its variants have appeared in various forms throughout Japanese literature and culture.
During the Heian period (794-1185), names became more elaborate and were often chosen for their poetic qualities. The name Mitsuko may not be directly associated with any specific historical figures or events, but it embodies the aesthetic values of the time, emphasizing beauty and virtue.
The use of names like Mitsuko continued through the Edo period (1603-1868), when the importance of names in reflecting social status and family lineage became pronounced. Culturally, the name Mitsuko resonates with themes of light and positivity, reflecting the hope and aspirations parents have for their daughters.
It is often associated with traditional values in Japanese society, where names are chosen not only for their sound but also for their meanings and the virtues they represent. The diminutive form "Mitsu" may also be used affectionately, highlighting the personal connections that names foster within families.
Overall, Mitsuko encapsulates a rich linguistic heritage and cultural significance that has endured through centuries.
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U.S. Historical Usage
The name Mitsuko was first seen in the United States in 1911. Mitsuko has ranked as high as #821 nationally, which occurred in 1919, and has been most popular in Hawaii, and California. In the past 5 years the name Mitsuko has been trending up compared to the previous 5 years.
Popularity Over Time (National)
Top States for Mitsuko (1936)
| State | Births | Share |
|---|---|---|
| HI | 6 |
Popularity Over Time (National) — Table
| Year | Births |
|---|---|
| 1911 | 5 |
| 1913 | 9 |
| 1914 | 11 |
| 1915 | 20 |
| 1916 | 16 |
| 1917 | 31 |
| 1918 | 43 |
| 1919 | 48 |
| 1920 | 37 |
| 1921 | 34 |
| 1922 | 43 |
| 1923 | 24 |
| 1924 | 25 |
| 1925 | 39 |
| 1926 | 29 |
| 1927 | 24 |
| 1928 | 21 |
| 1929 | 24 |
| 1930 | 11 |
| 1931 | 13 |
| 1932 | 11 |
| 1933 | 12 |
| 1934 | 7 |
| 1935 | 9 |
| 1936 | 9 |
| 1943 | 5 |
| 1981 | 5 |