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Kotaro
Pronounced koh-TAH-roh /koʊˈtɑroʊ/Medium
Meaning: Kotaro is a traditional Japanese boy's name written here in plain roman letters. It commonly joins 'ko,' small, with 'taro,' a classic suffix for an eldest son, and often an element for filial devotion, giving a sense like 'small, dutiful firstborn.' Its precise meaning shifts with the kanji a family chooses.Low
Popularity in the U.S. · SSA data
U.S. births per year (Social Security Administration, 1880–present). Pink marker = peak year.
SSA data updated May 2026. How we source & verify this data.
History & Origin
Kotaro is a classic Japanese given name in which 'taro' traditionally marks an eldest son and 'ko' adds the sense of 'small,' often with a character for filial or dutiful. Because the meaning rides on the chosen kanji, families read it in slightly different ways.
It has always been rare in the United States, given to only about fifteen boys a year at its most visible, around 2010. Its American use follows Japanese families rather than any broad fashion, keeping it an authentically Japanese choice.
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Frequently Asked
What does the name Kotaro mean?
It is a Japanese name often read as 'small, filial eldest son,' from 'ko' and the -taro suffix; the exact sense depends on the kanji.
How do you pronounce Kotaro?
It is said koh-TAH-roh /koʊˈtɑroʊ/ - three syllables.
Is Kotaro a boy or girl name?
Kotaro is used as a boy's name.
How popular is Kotaro?
It has always been rare in the United States, given to only about fifteen boys a year at its most visible.