照子

Teruko

girlJapanese

Teruko is a girl name of Japanese origin, meaning “Shining, radiant child”.

MeaningShining, radiant child
GenderGirl
OriginJapanese
Written as照子
PronunciationTEH-roo-koh
TraditionModern & Classic
Used inJapan

Meaning and origin of Teruko

Teruko is typically written 照子, combining teru, 'to shine' or 'to illuminate', with ko, 'child'. Some families use 輝 'brilliance' or 光 'light' for teru instead, keeping the bright imagery. Names of this pattern were widespread in the early and middle twentieth century, when nearly every girl's name ended in -ko, and Teruko now has a slightly old-fashioned, grandmotherly feel in Japan.

Is Teruko a religious name?

Teruko has no religious origin. Its imagery of light is poetic rather than tied to Buddhist or Shinto teaching.

How popular is Teruko?

Found mostly among older Japanese women; rare for babies today.

Gifts with the name Teruko

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Spellings and variants of Teruko

Teru

Names similar to Teruko

HikariMasakoMitsukoAkiko

More girl names

Frequently asked questions

What does the name Teruko mean?

Teruko means 'Shining, radiant child'. It is of Japanese origin.

Does Teruko have a religious meaning?

Teruko has no religious origin. Its imagery of light is poetic rather than tied to Buddhist or Shinto teaching.

How do you pronounce Teruko?

Teruko is pronounced TEH-roo-koh.

Is Teruko a boy or girl name?

Teruko is usually a girl name.

Updated October 2026. Spotted a mistake? Tell us.