Japanese names beginning with the letter “S” are quite common and cover a wide range of meanings and cultural significance. This article provides a detailed list of such names, including their pronunciations, Kanji characters, and meanings. This guide is invaluable for parents naming their children, authors creating characters, or anyone with an interest in Japanese names.
The Essence of Japanese Names
Japanese names often carry profound meanings, reflecting themes like nature, virtues, and artistic expressions. They typically consist of a family name followed by a given name.
The Impact of Kanji in Naming
Kanji, the characters in the Japanese writing system, significantly influence the meaning and pronunciation of names. Each Kanji has its own unique symbolism and phonetic value.
List of Japanese Names Starting with “S”
| English Version | Pronunciation | Kanji Text | Meaning |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sato | Sah-toh | 聡 | Wise |
| Sakura | Sah-koo-rah | 桜 | Cherry blossom |
| Shota | Sho-tah | 翔太 | Soaring, large |
| Sora | Soh-rah | 空 | Sky |
| Shinji | Shin-jee | 信二 | Faithful second son |
| Sayuri | Sah-yoo-ree | 小百合 | Small lily |
| Saki | Sah-kee | 咲希 | Blossom, hope |
| Shohei | Sho-hay | 翔平 | Soaring peace |
| Satoshi | Sah-toh-shee | 聡 | Wise |
| Shizuka | Shee-zoo-kah | 静香 | Quiet fragrance |
| Shun | Shoon | 俊 | Talented |
| Shiori | Shee-oh-ree | 栞 | Bookmark |
| Seiji | Say-jee | 誠二 | Sincere second son |
| Shoko | Sho-ko | 祥子 | Auspicious child |
| Sota | Soh-tah | 颯太 | Sudden, large |
| Sumire | Soo-mee-reh | 菫 | Violet (flower) |
| Shinya | Sheen-yah | 伸也 | Stretch, also |
| Shin | Shin | 伸 | Stretch |
| Shunsuke | Shoon-sue-keh | 俊輔 | Talented help |
| Saori | Sah-oh-ree | 沙織 | Sand weaving |
| Susumu | Soo-soo-moo | 進 | Progress |
| Shuhei | Shoo-hay | 周平 | Surrounding peace |
| Sachi | Sah-chee | 幸 | Happiness |
| Shinobu | Shee-noh-boo | 忍 | Endurance |
| Shigeru | Shee-geh-roo | 茂 | Luxuriant |
| Sayaka | Sah-yah-kah | 早香 | Early fragrance |
| Shota | Sho-tah | 翔太 | Soaring, large |
| Shizuo | Shee-zoo-oh | 静夫 | Quiet man |
| Sana | Sah-nah | 紗那 | Gauze, that |
| Shintaro | Shin-tah-ro | 伸太郎 | Stretching eldest son |
Choosing a Japanese Name
When selecting a Japanese name, especially for those not of Japanese descent, it’s important to consider the meaning, pronunciation, and cultural significance in both Japan and other languages. This ensures the name is meaningful and resonates well in different cultural settings.
Conclusion
Japanese names beginning with “S” offer a rich variety of meanings and sounds. Each name carries its own unique charm and significance, reflecting the depth of Japanese culture and linguistic tradition. These names are ideal for various naming needs, providing both beauty and cultural depth.