Tomiko is a name of Japanese origin, derived from the combination of two elements: "Tomi" and "ko." "Tomi" is a shortened form of the given name Tomohiro or Tomoyuki, both of which mean "to brighten and clear" or "to pacify," respectively. The element "ko" means "child" in Japanese.
The name Tomiko has been popular among Japanese families for generations, often used as a feminine name. It is believed to have originated during the Edo period (1603-1868), when many people adopted Chinese characters and meanings for their names to reflect virtues they wished to cultivate or characteristics they hoped to embody.
Throughout history, there have been several notable figures named Tomiko. One such example is Tomiko Okumura, a Japanese painter active during the Taisho period (1912-1926). She was known for her distinctive style and contribution to Japanese art.
In recent years, Tomiko has gained recognition beyond Japan due to its unique sound and meaning. It remains popular among families who appreciate names with deep roots in history and culture. While it is not widely used outside of Japan, those who bear the name Tomiko carry a rich heritage that dates back centuries.
Statistics on the name Tomiko show a varied trend over the years in the United States. The name first appeared in the top 1000 baby names list in 1912 with only five births that year. However, it quickly gained popularity and reached its peak in 1968 with a total of 60 births.
After this high point, the number of babies named Tomiko started to decline steadily. Between 1970 and 1983, there were an average of around 15 births per year. This decreased even further in the following decades, with only six births per year between 1984 and 1996.
Despite the decrease in popularity, Tomiko has remained a unique and distinctive name. Between 1992 and 2001, there were an average of six births per year, indicating that some parents still chose this name for their daughters despite its waning popularity.
In total, there have been 918 babies named Tomiko in the United States since 1912. While it may not be as popular today as it was in the mid-20th century, Tomiko remains a name with a rich history and a distinct identity. It is important to note that popularity does not necessarily indicate the value or meaning of a name, and many people choose unique names for their children precisely because they are not widely used.
Overall, the statistics on the name Tomiko demonstrate how trends in naming can change over time, reflecting the shifting cultural landscape and personal preferences of parents. Despite its fluctuations in popularity, Tomiko remains a unique and distinctive name with a significant historical presence in the United States.