Ichiro is a unisex Japanese given name that has been gaining popularity worldwide, particularly among Westerners who are drawn to its unique sound and meaning. The name is composed of two characters: "一" (ichi) which means 'one', and "郎" (ro) which means 'boy' or 'son'. Thus, Ichiro translates to 'first son'.
In Japan, the name has been traditionally given to eldest sons, but its use has expanded over time. It was notably popularized globally by Japanese baseball player Ichirō Suzuki, who spent his entire Major League Baseball career with the Seattle Mariners from 2001 to 2019.
The name Ichiro is also used in other cultures, such as among the Ainu people of Japan and Russia, where it means 'first child'. In Chinese culture, the name has a similar meaning but uses different characters: 一儿 (yī'ér).
Parents who choose the name Ichiro often appreciate its simple yet powerful meaning. It serves as a reminder to cherish one's firstborn or to consider the importance of being unique and distinctive like the 'first'.
"The name Ichiro has seen fluctuating popularity over the years, with peaks in the early 1920s and a resurgence in the late 2010s."