Holding steady.
Popularity of Yamato since 2000
Babies named Yamato per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 2000s | 62 |
| 2010s | 57 |
| 2020s | 10 |
Meaning & origin
Yamato is a Japanese name with deep historical significance, referring to the ancient clan and province that gave rise to the imperial dynasty of Japan. As a given name, it has been used in the United States since 2000, but data from the Social Security Administration shows it remains rare, with no rank in the top 1000 and no state concentration. Its peak year in recorded usage was 2007, and the trajectory has been stable. The name's meaning, 'great harmony' or 'great peace' via the kanji 大和, reflects a traditional virtue. While not yet common, Yamato has gained modest exposure through anime and other media, contributing to its gradual adoption outside Japan.
Yamato (大和) is a historical Japanese name for the country itself, originally referring to the Yamato Province (present-day Nara Prefecture). The kanji 大 means 'great' and 和 means 'harmony' or 'peace.' It was the name of the dominant clan in ancient Japan and is deeply tied to the imperial lineage. As a given name, it became more common after the year 2000, partly inspired by its use in popular culture.
Sibling names for Yamato
Names that share Yamato's style, for a brother or sister.
