Rising since 1998, #5,861 for boys today.
Popularity of Taiyo since 1997
Babies named Taiyo per year in U.S. Social Security records. Raw births topped out in 2008, but relative to how few babies were recorded back then, Taiyo's real moment was 2025.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1990s | 10 |
| 2000s | 112 |
| 2010s | 118 |
| 2020s | 73 |
Meaning & origin
Taiyo, a Japanese name meaning 'sun,' has seen a gradual rise in usage in the United States since it first appeared on record in 1997. In 2025, it ranked 5,861 with an incidence of 1 in 113,872 boys, marking its peak year so far. The name has been steadily climbing since 1998, reflecting a growing interest in Japanese names and nature-inspired choices. It is most popular in California, which aligns with the state's significant Japanese American population and broader cultural diversity. Taiyo's straightforward meaning and bright imagery make it an appealing option for parents seeking a distinctive yet accessible name.
Taiyo is a Japanese name derived from the word 太陽 (taiyō), meaning 'sun' or 'sunlight.' It is a straightforward nature name, often chosen for its bright, positive connotations. The name has been in consistent use in Japan and gained some international awareness through cultural exports.
Where Taiyo is most popular
Births per 100,000 boys by state, 2025. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Tai
Sibling names for Taiyo
Names that share Taiyo's style, for a brother or sister.

