Teruo is a unisex Japanese given name that has been traditionally used for both boys and girls. The name consists of two kanji characters: "tera" (照) which means "shine", and "u" (宇) which signifies "space" or "universe". Therefore, Teruo can be interpreted to mean "shine upon the universe" or "shining in the vast space". This name is often chosen for its positive connotations and esthetically pleasing sound. It is particularly popular among families who wish to imbue their child with a sense of brightness, expansiveness, and cosmic connection. Teruo has been used consistently throughout modern Japanese history, though it was more commonly given during the mid-20th century. Today, it continues to be chosen by parents seeking a name that combines traditional Japanese culture with contemporary relevance.
The name Teruo had a notable start with consistent growth from 1913 to 1927, peaking at 37 births in that year. However, it declined thereafter, reaching its lowest point with only 5 births in 1935. Overall, there were 274 births over the period from 1913 to 1935.