Holding steady.
Popularity of Teruo since 1913
Babies named Teruo per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1910s | 60 |
| 1920s | 183 |
| 1930s | 31 |
| 1940s | 0 |
| 1950s | 0 |
| 1960s | 0 |
| 1970s | 0 |
| 1980s | 0 |
| 1990s | 0 |
| 2000s | 0 |
| 2010s | 0 |
| 2020s | 0 |
Meaning & origin
Teruo is a classic Japanese masculine name that enjoyed its highest popularity in 1927, when it peaked in usage according to U.S. Social Security data. Since then, its frequency has been stable but very low, with a one-in-n estimate of null in 2025, meaning it is exceptionally rare today. The name first appeared in U.S. records in 1913 and has remained consistently uncommon. While it has no recorded top states, Teruo reflects a traditional Japanese naming pattern that pairs a virtue or natural element with the word for 'man'. Its straightforward meaning and distinctive sound give it a quiet dignity.
Teruo is a traditional Japanese masculine name composed of the kanji elements 'teru' (輝 or 照), meaning 'to shine' or 'illuminate', and 'o' (夫 or 男), meaning 'man' or 'husband'. The name thus signifies a 'shining man' or 'bright man'. It has been used in Japan for centuries, with consistent if modest usage throughout the 20th century. It peaked in 1927.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Teru
Sibling names for Teruo
Names that share Teruo's style, for a brother or sister.
