MallowbyNames

Minoru

mee-NOH-roo · One possible meaning is 'truth' or 'reality' (実), but the kanji used can vary, giving different meanings.

Peak popularity
1917
Usually for
Boys
Trend
Holding steady

Holding steady.

Popularity of Minoru since 1912

Babies named Minoru per year in U.S. Social Security records.

173350192019602000Most births 1921Boys
Data table (by decade)
DecadeBoys
1910s206
1920s370
1930s99
1940s0
1950s0
1960s0
1970s0
1980s0
1990s0
2000s0
2010s0
2020s0

Meaning & origin

Minoru is a Japanese name that entered U.S. records in 1912 and reached its peak popularity in 1917, the year it was most frequently recorded. Since then, its usage has remained stable at very low numbers, with no significant resurgence. While exact one-in-N ratios are unavailable for recent years, the name's rarity in modern U.S. data reflects its niche appeal mainly within Japanese-American communities. The name's meaning is tied to its kanji components, most often the character 実 (truth, fruit). Despite its low overall frequency, Minoru represents a distinct cultural heritage and has maintained a consistent presence over the decades.

Minoru is a Japanese given name, typically masculine, written with various kanji combinations. One common character is 実, meaning 'fruit,' 'truth,' or 'reality.' The name has been in use since at least the early 20th century and was particularly popular in Japan during the 1910s. It saw a peak in 1917 in the United States, likely among Japanese-American families.

Sibling names for Minoru

Names that share Minoru's style, for a brother or sister.

A parent animal hugging its little one, the personalized name page

M is for Minoru, our favorite little boy.

M is for Minoru…”

In a Mallowby alphabet book, Minoru's letter becomes Minoru's page: hand-illustrated, printed hardcover or paperback, made just for them.

Make Minoru's book

Books for siblings or grandkids? The second book is 15% off.

Questions parents ask

What does the name Minoru mean?
Minoru is a Japanese name meaning can vary based on the kanji used, but common meanings include 'truth,' 'reality,' or 'fruit.'
How popular is the name Minoru currently?
Minoru has not ranked in the U.S. top 1000 in recent years. Its peak popularity in U.S. records was in 1917, but data for 2025 shows no recent ranking.
Is Minoru a boy or girl name?
Minoru is predominantly a masculine name.