梅子

Umeko

girlJapanese

Umeko is a girl name of Japanese origin, meaning “Plum-blossom child”.

MeaningPlum-blossom child
GenderGirl
OriginJapanese
Written as梅子
PronunciationOO-meh-koh
TraditionModern & Classic
Used inJapan

Meaning and origin of Umeko

Umeko is written 梅子, from ume, the Japanese apricot or plum tree, and ko, 'child'. The ume blossoms in late winter, often while snow is still on the ground, so it stands for endurance and the first promise of spring. The educator Tsuda Umeko, who founded what became Tsuda University and was one of the first Japanese girls sent to study in the United States, appears on the 5,000-yen note issued in 2024.

Is Umeko a religious name?

Umeko is a secular Japanese name. Plum blossoms are prized in Japanese poetry and appear at shrines, but the name itself carries no religious meaning.

How popular is Umeko?

An old-fashioned name in Japan, though Tsuda Umeko's place on the banknote has brought it fresh attention.

Gifts with the name Umeko

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Spellings and variants of Umeko

Ume

Names similar to Umeko

More girl names

Frequently asked questions

What does the name Umeko mean?

Umeko means 'Plum-blossom child'. It is of Japanese origin.

Does Umeko have a religious meaning?

Umeko is a secular Japanese name. Plum blossoms are prized in Japanese poetry and appear at shrines, but the name itself carries no religious meaning.

How do you pronounce Umeko?

Umeko is pronounced OO-meh-koh.

Is Umeko a boy or girl name?

Umeko is usually a girl name.

Updated October 2026. Spotted a mistake? Tell us.