Holding steady.
Popularity of Isamu since 1912
Babies named Isamu per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1910s | 147 |
| 1920s | 295 |
| 1930s | 73 |
| 1940s | 0 |
| 1950s | 0 |
| 1960s | 0 |
| 1970s | 0 |
| 1980s | 5 |
| 1990s | 0 |
| 2000s | 36 |
| 2010s | 0 |
| 2020s | 6 |
Meaning & origin
Isamu is a Japanese name meaning 'courage' that primarily saw use in the United States among Japanese American families in the early 20th century. The name first appeared in U.S. records in 1912 and reached its highest recorded usage in 1922, reflecting a generation of children born to immigrants from Japan. Its trajectory has been stable, and while it has never ranked in the national top 1000, it holds cultural significance. The name has not been recorded in recent decades, suggesting it remains a rare but meaningful choice for those seeking a name with a strong, straightforward meaning.
Isamu is a Japanese name derived from the verb 'isamu' (勇む), meaning 'to be courageous' or 'to be spirited.' It has been used in Japan for centuries, often chosen for boys to inspire bravery. The name saw a peak in popularity in the United States in 1922, reflecting early Japanese American communities.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Isa, Samu
Sibling names for Isamu
Names that share Isamu's style, for a brother or sister.
