Katana Name: Complete Etymology, Meaning & Popularity Analysis
Summary
The name 'Katana' originates from Japanese, meaning 'sword', and refers to a specific type of traditional Japanese sword. It evolved from the ancient term for a sword, becoming culturally significant during the Kamakura period as a symbol of the samurai. The katana is often associated with honor and precision in craftsmanship, with no direct biblical relevance. Notable figures in history, such as Miyamoto Musashi, are linked to the katana's legacy.
Etymology & Cultural Background of "Katana"
Pronunciation
/kəˈtɑːnə/
Origin
Japanese
Etymology
The word 'katana' comes from the Japanese word '刀', which refers to a specific type of traditional Japanese sword characterized by its curved, single-edged blade and distinctive tsuba (hand guard).
Meaning
sword
Language Evolution
古刀 (Kodō) - Ancient sword, 刀 (Katana) - Modern term for a sword
Historical Usage
The katana gained popularity during the Kamakura period (1185-1333) in Japan, becoming a symbol of the samurai class and Japanese culture.
Variants & Derivatives
Tachi, Wakizashi, Naginata
Modern Popularity & Image
Today, the katana is often associated with traditional Japanese culture and martial arts, reflecting values such as honor and craftsmanship.
Famous People
Miyamoto Musashi - Renowned swordsman and philosopher, Hattori Hanzō - Famous samurai and ninja leader
📊 Katana Name Trend Analysis
Girl Name Trend
Recent 3-Year Analysis
Explore More Katana Name Visualizations
✨ Katana Name Meaning & Significance
Popularity Trend
Less Common name with 79 peak births in 2023
Geographic Spread
Popular across 13 US states, with strongest presence in California
Historical Span
Data spanning 145 years from 1880 to 2024, showing long-term trends
Generational Impact
Influenced 5 different American generations with varying popularity
🔊 Same Pronunciation Names for "Katana" - Complete Guide (2 Names)
Discover the ultimate list of homophone names and same pronunciation names that sound identical to "Katana". These names share the same pronunciation but may have different spellings, offering alternative options for parents seeking similar-sounding names. Whether you're looking for American or British pronunciation variations, this comprehensive guide includes 2 carefully curated names that maintain the same phonetic sound.
Why explore same pronunciation names? Many parents search for homophone names to find alternative spellings that might be more unique or culturally significant. This ultimate list covers both American and British pronunciation patterns, ensuring you find the perfect variation of "Katana" that fits your preferences.
Historical Birth Statistics for the Name "Katana"
Note: Years with identical rankings may represent different numbers of births. Data is sourced from Social Security card applications for births in the United States.
Yearly Ranking History of "Katana"
"Katana" Popularity Across American Generations
| Generation | Gender | Rank | Total Names |
|---|---|---|---|
| Baby Boomers (1946-1964) | Girl | 10394th of 12526 | 12 |
| Generation X (Gen X) (1965-1980) | Girl | 11362nd of 19264 | 33 |
| Millennials (Gen Y) (1981-1996) | Girl | 6998th of 27321 | 170 |
| Generation Z (Gen Z or Zoomers) (1997-2012) | Girl | 3239th of 35406 | 760 |
| Generation Alpha (2013-2024) | Girl | 2753rd of 30306 | 751 |
Regional Popularity of "Katana" by Generation for Male Names
| TOP(%) | MidWest | Northeast | South | West |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| G.I. Generation (1901-1927) |
- | - | - | - |
| Silent Generation (1928-1945) |
- | - | - | - |
| Baby Boomers (1946-1964) |
- | - | - | - |
| Generation X (Gen X) (1965-1980) |
- | - | - | - |
| Millennials (Gen Y) (1981-1996) |
- | - | - | - |
| Generation Z (Gen Z or Zoomers) (1997-2012) |
- | - | - | - |
| Generation Alpha (2013-2024) |
- | - | - | - |
Regional Popularity of "Katana" by Generation for Female Names
| TOP(%) | MidWest | Northeast | South | West |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| G.I. Generation (1901-1927) |
- | - | - | - |
| Silent Generation (1928-1945) |
- | - | - | - |
| Baby Boomers (1946-1964) |
- | - | - | - |
| Generation X (Gen X) (1965-1980) |
- | - | - | - |
| Millennials (Gen Y) (1981-1996) |
- | - | - | - |
| Generation Z (Gen Z or Zoomers) (1997-2012) |
94.98% 4352nd/4582 |
86.77% 4481st/5164 |
70.46% 5153rd/7313 |
41.98% 3133rd/7463 |
| Generation Alpha (2013-2024) |
72.89% 2904th/3984 |
82.79% 3715th/4487 |
55.75% 3803rd/6822 |
38.42% 2411th/6276 |
State-by-State Popularity of "Katana"
This map shows the relative popularity of "Katana" across states, calculated by dividing the number of births with this name in each state by the total births in that state. This methodology provides a standardized measure of popularity regardless of state population size.
Comprehensive Regional & Generational Popularity Trends of "Katana" in the United States
The name Katana is most popular in California, USA across all generations. It ranks highest as a Girl name among the Generation Alpha generation in the West region. Recent 3-year trends show this Girl name is maintaining steady popularity, while the 25-year trend indicates it has been relatively stable. From 2020-2022, Katana has been stalled for female in MidWest, stalled for female in Northeast, stalled for female in South, stalled for female in West. The long-term 25-year analysis reveals it has been stalled for female in MidWest, stalled for female in Northeast, stalled for female in South, stalled for female in West. Across generations, 'Katana' has shown interesting popularity patterns: Among the Baby Boomers (1946-1964), it ranked 10394th out of 12526 names. Among the Generation X (Gen X) (1965-1980), it ranked 11362nd out of 19264 names. Among the Millennials (Gen Y) (1981-1996), it ranked 6998th out of 27321 names. Among the Generation Z (Gen Z or Zoomers) (1997-2012), it ranked 3239th out of 35406 names. Among the Generation Alpha (2013-2024), it ranked 2753rd out of 30306 names. Discover how the name 'Katana' has evolved through American history with our comprehensive regional and generational analysis.