千代

Chiyo

girlJapanese

Chiyo is a girl name of Japanese origin, meaning “A thousand generations”.

MeaningA thousand generations
GenderGirl
OriginJapanese
Written as千代
PronunciationCHEE-yoh
TraditionModern & Classic
Used inJapan

Meaning and origin of Chiyo

Chiyo is usually written 千代, joining 千 'thousand' and 代 'generation, age', and it expresses a wish for a very long life or an enduring family. The same phrase appears in Japan's national anthem, which hopes the emperor's reign will last 'a thousand, eight thousand generations'. The haiku poet Fukuda Chiyo-ni, of the eighteenth century, is one famous bearer. The name was common in the early twentieth century and now feels classic.

Is Chiyo a religious name?

Chiyo has no specific religious background; it is a traditional Japanese name expressing longevity, a value honoured in both Shinto and Buddhist custom.

How popular is Chiyo?

Mostly associated with older generations in Japan, though some parents revive it as a vintage name.

Gifts with the name Chiyo

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Spellings and variants of Chiyo

ChiyokoChiyoe

Names similar to Chiyo

ChiyokoHarukoSumikoKayo

More girl names

Frequently asked questions

What does the name Chiyo mean?

Chiyo means 'A thousand generations'. It is of Japanese origin.

Does Chiyo have a religious meaning?

Chiyo has no specific religious background; it is a traditional Japanese name expressing longevity, a value honoured in both Shinto and Buddhist custom.

How do you pronounce Chiyo?

Chiyo is pronounced CHEE-yoh.

Is Chiyo a boy or girl name?

Chiyo is usually a girl name.

Updated October 2026. Spotted a mistake? Tell us.