すみれ

Sumire

girlJapanese

Sumire is a girl name of Japanese origin, meaning “Violet (flower)”.

MeaningViolet (flower)
GenderGirl
OriginJapanese
Written asすみれ
Pronunciationsoo-MEE-reh
TraditionModern & Classic
Used inJapan

Meaning and origin of Sumire

Sumire is the Japanese word for the violet, the small purple spring flower, written 菫 in kanji or すみれ in hiragana. It has long appeared in Japanese poetry as an image of modest beauty, and the Takarazuka Revue's theme song 'Sumire no Hana Saku Koro' made it beloved in the twentieth century. As a girl's name it is used steadily in Japan. Parents may also write it with other kanji combinations.

Is Sumire a religious name?

Sumire is a nature name with no religious background in Japanese tradition. It is chosen for its gentle flower image.

How popular is Sumire?

An established girl's name in Japan; rare elsewhere.

Gifts with the name Sumire

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Spellings and variants of Sumire

SumiSumireko

Names similar to Sumire

More girl names

Frequently asked questions

What does the name Sumire mean?

Sumire means 'Violet (flower)'. It is of Japanese origin.

Does Sumire have a religious meaning?

Sumire is a nature name with no religious background in Japanese tradition. It is chosen for its gentle flower image.

How do you pronounce Sumire?

Sumire is pronounced soo-MEE-reh.

Is Sumire a boy or girl name?

Sumire is usually a girl name.

Updated October 2026. Spotted a mistake? Tell us.