Akira is a Japanese given name of both masculine and feminine usage. The name originates from the kanji characters "明" (aki) meaning "bright" or "clear", and "良" (ra) meaning "good". Therefore, Akira can be interpreted as "bright" or "clear" combined with "good".
The name Akira has a rich history in Japan. It was popularized by the famous Japanese author Yukio Mishima, who used it for his protagonist in his 1964 novel "Kyoksu!". Since then, Akira has become increasingly popular as both a masculine and feminine name.
In recent years, Akira has gained international recognition due to its use in various forms of media. The most notable example is the manga and anime series "Akira" created by Katsuhiro Otomo, which became hugely successful worldwide. As a result, Akira has become more commonly used as a given name outside Japan.
In conclusion, Akira is a Japanese given name that means "bright" or "clear" combined with "good". Its history spans centuries, but it gained significant popularity in modern times due to its use in literature and media. Today, Akira continues to be a popular choice for both boys and girls in Japan and beyond.
"Akira has seen a significant rise in popularity over time, with birth numbers fluctuating between 6 and 345 from 1973 to 2023. The name reached its peak popularity in recent years, with 345 births recorded in 2008 and consistent high figures since 2006."