Minoru is a Japanese given name of uncertain origin and meaning. It is believed to have been created during the Edo period (1603-1868), although its exact beginnings are unclear.
One theory suggests that Minoru was originally a surname, derived from the phrase "mi no ru," which translates to "favored by the gods." Over time, this name became popular as a given name, particularly for boys. However, there is no definitive evidence to support this theory, and the true origin of Minoru remains shrouded in mystery.
Despite its uncertain beginnings, Minoru has been a popular name in Japan for centuries. In fact, it was one of the most common boy's names during the Meiji era (1868-1912). Today, Minoru is still a recognizable and widely-used name in Japan, although its popularity has declined somewhat in recent years.
In English-speaking countries, Minoru may be less familiar than some other Japanese names, but it has nonetheless been used by individuals of various backgrounds. Some notable people with the name Minoru include Minoru Yamasaki, a prominent architect known for designing the World Trade Center in New York City, and Minoru Suzuki, a professional wrestler and trainer.
Overall, while the exact origin and meaning of Minoru remain unknown, there is no doubt that it is an enduring and significant name in Japanese culture. Its mysterious beginnings only add to its intrigue and allure.
The name Minoru has seen a varied trend in popularity over the years in the United States. The statistics show that between 1912 and 1939, there were a total of 675 babies named Minoru.
The peak years for this name's popularity were during the early 1920s. In 1920 and 1921, there were 49 and 50 births respectively, indicating that these were the years when the name Minoru was at its most popular.
However, from 1923 onwards, we see a decline in the number of babies named Minoru each year. By 1932, this number had dropped significantly to just 9 births. This trend continues throughout the rest of the decade, with the lowest point being in 1938 with only 5 births.
Despite this decrease in popularity over time, it's interesting to note that there were still babies named Minoru born every year between 1912 and 1939, indicating some level of continuous popularity for the name during this period.