Kentaro - Male Name Meaning and Origin
- Origin
- Japanese
- Meaning
- Healthy eldest son
- Pronunciation
- ken-TAH-ro
- Gender
- Male
- Variations
- Kentarou, Kentarō
- Notable Namesakes
- Kentaro Miura (Japanese manga artist known for Berserk)
- Kentaro Seagal (Japanese-American actor, son of Steven Seagal)
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Etymology & Heritage
The name Kentaro carries within its syllables the poetic essence of Japanese heritage. Derived from the Japanese characters ken, most frequently meaning healthy, and taro, a common suffix for boys' names in Japan, denoting the eldest son or a large son.
Hence, in its most traditional essence, Kentaro might be considered as symbolizing the healthy eldest son. On a linguistic note, Kentaro is simple yet sonorous, its consonants and vowels lend a balance that feels easy on the tongue in various languages.
Character & Essence
Kentaro evokes an image of a strong individual who might be seen as a pillar within a family or community, reflecting strength and stability. The implications of health and the eldest son suggest a sense of responsibility and dependability, characteristics admired in many cultures.
This universality adds to the strength of the name, reinforcing its connotation of an individual who displays resilience and versatility.
Cultural & Contemporary Significance
The resonance of this name flows fluidly across generations, as it is a commonly given name for boys in Japan, but it is by no means mundane. Instead, its frequency mirrors its cultural significance.
The name Kentaro encapsulates the values of good health, family hierarchy, and strong filial roles, which are integral to Japanese society. Many fictional characters in anime and manga also bear this name, contributing to its popularity and familiarity both within Japan and internationally.