MallowbyNames

Susumu

soo-SOO-moo · To advance or progress; also interpreted as 'going forward'.

Peak popularity
1919
Usually for
Boys
Trend
Holding steady

Holding steady.

Popularity of Susumu since 1914

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

91827192019602000Most births 1919Boys
Data table (by decade)
DecadeBoys
1910s78
1920s201
1930s54
1940s18
1950s0
1960s0
1970s0
1980s0
1990s0
2000s0
2010s0
2020s0

Meaning & origin

Susumu is a Japanese boy's name that carries a sense of purposeful movement, meaning 'to advance' or 'progress.' It was first recorded in U.S. data in 1914, reflecting early Japanese immigration, and saw its peak year in 1919, when it was most common among Japanese-American families. Since then, its usage has remained stable but very rare, never ranking in the top 1000 nationally. The name's trajectory through the decades shows consistent but minimal use, primarily within Japanese communities. Its meaning has preserved its cultural resonance, though it has not experienced a revival. Susumu stands out for its clarity of intent and strong cultural roots.

Susumu is a Japanese masculine name derived from the verb 'susumu' (進む), meaning 'to advance' or 'to make progress'. It is a classic name in Japan, reflecting qualities of perseverance and forward movement. Although most common in the early 20th century, it continues in occasional use.

Nicknames & variants

Nicknames: Sussu, Mu, Sū-chan

Sibling names for Susumu

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

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

S is for Susumu, our favorite little boy.

S is for Susumu…”

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

Make Susumu's book

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

Questions parents ask

What does the name Susumu mean?
Susumu is a Japanese name that means 'to advance' or 'progress,' derived from the verb susumu.
How popular is the name Susumu?
Susumu has ranked outside the top 1000 U.S. names in recent decades. Its peak year in the U.S. was 1919, but even then it was rare.
Is Susumu a boy's name or a girl's name?
Susumu is traditionally a masculine name in Japan.