Kensuke is a masculine given name of Japanese origin. The name is composed of two kanji characters: "Ken" (健), which means "healthy" or "strong," and "Suke" (助), which means "help" or "assist." Thus, Kensuke translates to "healthy assistance" or "strong help."
The name Kensuke gained popularity in Japan during the Showa period (1926-1989). It was often given to boys born during this time, as parents hoped their children would grow up to be strong and helpful individuals. Today, Kensuke remains a popular choice among Japanese parents, although it is less common than some other names.
Historically, there are no famous figures or notable characters named Kensuke that have significantly influenced the name's popularity or meaning. However, the name has been used in various forms of media, such as anime and manga, further contributing to its familiarity in popular culture.
Overall, Kensuke is a unique and meaningful name with a strong and helpful connotation. Its origin and history provide insight into Japanese naming traditions and cultural values surrounding strength, assistance, and health.
The name Kensuke has seen a varied level of popularity over the years in the United States. In the early 1980s, it started with a modest 5 babies being named Kensuke in 1982. This number remained relatively stable, with another 5 births recorded in 2004 and 2010.
However, there was a notable increase in popularity between these periods. In the late 1980s and early 1990s, Kensuke reached its peak popularity, with 6 babies named Kensuke each year from 1990 to 1998, and again in 2001.
Overall, since 1982, a total of 33 American babies have been named Kensuke. While it hasn't become one of the most popular names in recent years, its consistent appearance on birth records over several decades suggests that Kensuke remains a name with some enduring appeal among parents in the United States.