All about the name

Goku

Male

« Goku is a Japanese name derived from the Buddhist term "Skt. Gokula," meaning "cowherd village." It became popular worldwide due to its use in various forms of media, notably as the main protagonist's name in Akira Toriyama's Dragon Ball series. »

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Meaning, origin, history

Goku is a name of Japanese origin, derived from the Buddhist term "Skt. Gokula," which translates to "cowherd village." This name has been popularized worldwide due to its usage in various forms of media and entertainment. In Japan, Goku is often used as a masculine given name. It is believed to have originated from the Sanskrit word "Gokula," which refers to the divine realm where cows are believed to live eternally. In Buddhist tradition, it is also the birthplace of the Hindu deity Krishna, who is known for his mischievous behavior and eventual enlightenment. One notable figure associated with the name Goku is Son Goku, the main protagonist of the popular manga and anime series Dragon Ball created by Akira Toriyama. Born as a Saiyan on the planet Vegeta, Goku was sent to Earth as an infant to destroy its inhabitants but lost his memory upon crashing into a mountainside. He grew up to become a kind-hearted and powerful warrior with an insatiable appetite for food and fighting. The character's name, Son Goku, is inspired by the Buddhist monk Gokū, who was a companion of Bodhidharma, the founder of Zen Buddhism. In addition to its use in popular culture, the name Goku has also been used as a given name for babies in Japan. Parents may choose this name for their children due to its positive associations with strength, wisdom, and enlightenment. Overall, the name Goku carries a rich history rooted in Buddhist tradition and has gained international recognition through various forms of media.

In numbers

Popularity of the name Goku since 1880

Total births
116
Total since 1880
Peak year
2020
20 births
in 2023
5
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
+42%
vs previous 5 years