治

Osamu

boyJapanese

Osamu is a boy name of Japanese origin, meaning “To govern; to study, discipline”.

MeaningTo govern; to study, discipline
GenderBoy
OriginJapanese
Written as治
Pronunciationoh-SAH-moo
TraditionModern & Classic
Used inJapan

Meaning and origin of Osamu

Osamu is a Japanese name usually written with a single kanji. With 治 it means 'to govern, to heal, to bring order', and with 修 it means 'to study, master, discipline oneself'. Famous bearers include Osamu Tezuka, the father of modern manga and creator of Astro Boy, and the novelist Osamu Dazai, author of No Longer Human.

Is Osamu a religious name?

Osamu is a Japanese cultural name; the 修 spelling carries a sense of self-cultivation but is not tied to any religion.

How popular is Osamu?

Common among Japanese men born in the mid-twentieth century; less usual for babies today.

Gifts with the name Osamu

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Names similar to Osamu

More boy names

Frequently asked questions

What does the name Osamu mean?

Osamu means 'To govern; to study, discipline'. It is of Japanese origin.

Does Osamu have a religious meaning?

Osamu is a Japanese cultural name; the 修 spelling carries a sense of self-cultivation but is not tied to any religion.

How do you pronounce Osamu?

Osamu is pronounced oh-SAH-moo.

Is Osamu a boy or girl name?

Osamu is usually a boy name.

Updated October 2026. Spotted a mistake? Tell us.