MallowbyNames

Tsutomu

tsoo-TOH-moo · One who strives or exerts effort, often interpreted as 'diligent' or 'industrious'.

Peak popularity
1924
Usually for
Boys
Trend
Holding steady

Holding steady.

Popularity of Tsutomu since 1912

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

102131192019602000Most births 1924Boys
Data table (by decade)
DecadeBoys
1910s90
1920s219
1930s43
1940s0
1950s0
1960s0
1970s0
1980s0
1990s0
2000s0
2010s0
2020s0

Meaning & origin

Tsutomu is a steadfast Japanese name rooted in a concept of diligence and effort. According to Social Security data, it first appeared in records in 1912 and reached its highest point in 1924, an era when names emphasizing industriousness were notably favored. The name has a stable trajectory over the decades, never disappearing but also not experiencing a revival. Its consistent, steady presence reflects its straightforward meaning, though it has never been among the most common names in the United States.

Tsutomu originates from the Japanese verb 'tsutomeru' (勤める), meaning 'to serve' or 'to work diligently'. It is a masculine given name common throughout the 20th century, particularly during the 1920s.

Nicknames & variants

Nicknames: Tsu, Tomu

Sibling names for Tsutomu

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

Sisters: Yuki, Aiko, Sakura, Emi, Hana

Brothers: Kenji, Takeshi, Hiroshi, Makoto, Kazuo

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

T is for Tsutomu, our favorite little boy.

T is for Tsutomu…”

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

Make Tsutomu's book

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

Questions parents ask

What does the name Tsutomu mean?
Tsutomu is a Japanese name meaning 'diligent', 'industrious', or 'one who strives'.
Is Tsutomu a common name today?
Tsutomu does not currently rank among the top names in recent Social Security data; its peak in 1924 was its most popular year, and usage has since declined.
Is Tsutomu a boy or girl name?
Tsutomu is almost exclusively used as a boy's name in Japan.