MallowbyNames

Tamotsu

tah-MOH-tsoo · A common Japanese masculine given name with several possible meanings depending on the kanji used, such as 'protect' or 'blessing'.

Peak popularity
1923
Usually for
Boys
Trend
Holding steady

Holding steady.

Popularity of Tamotsu since 1915

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

91726192019602000Most births 1923Boys
Data table (by decade)
DecadeBoys
1910s38
1920s143
1930s18
1940s0
1950s0
1960s0
1970s0
1980s0
1990s0
2000s0
2010s0
2020s0

Meaning & origin

Tamotsu is a traditional Japanese masculine name that saw its greatest popularity in the early 20th century. It first appeared in U.S. records in 1915, reflecting immigration patterns from Japan. The name reached its peak in 1923, during the 1920s decade when Japanese American communities were growing. Since then, usage has steadily declined, and by 2025 the name is so rare that no rank is available; fewer than 5 boys receive it annually. The trajectory has been stable at very low levels, and no top states are recorded due to scarcity. Despite its rarity in the United States, Tamotsu remains a recognizable and respected name in Japan, where multiple kanji renderings offer varied meanings centered on protection and blessing.

Tamotsu is a Japanese masculine given name written with various kanji combinations. Common meanings include 保 (tamotsu, 'protect, preserve') or 恵 (tamotsu, 'blessing, grace'). The name has been used in Japan for centuries and remains in steady, if modest, use.

Sibling names for Tamotsu

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

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

T is for Tamotsu, our favorite little boy.

T is for Tamotsu…”

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

Make Tamotsu's book

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

Questions parents ask

What does the name Tamotsu mean?
Tamotsu is a Japanese name meaning 'protect' or 'blessing,' depending on the kanji characters used to write it.
How popular is the name Tamotsu today?
Tamotsu was most popular in the 1920s, peaking in 1923. In recent years it is rarely given, and no rank is recorded for the latest year of available data, 2025, indicating fewer than 5 births per year.
Is Tamotsu a boy's name or a girl's name?
Tamotsu is predominantly a masculine name in Japan.