Yamato
Yamato is a boy name of Japanese origin, meaning “Great harmony; old name of Japan”.
| Meaning | Great harmony; old name of Japan |
|---|---|
| Gender | Boy |
| Origin | Japanese |
| Written as | 大和 |
| Pronunciation | YAH-mah-toh |
| Tradition | Modern & Classic |
| Used in | Japan |
Meaning and origin of Yamato
Yamato is the ancient name of the Japanese heartland around Nara and, by extension, of Japan itself. It is usually written with the characters for 'great' and 'harmony', though these were chosen later for an older native word. The legendary hero Yamato Takeru carries the name, as did the famous Second World War battleship. Today it is a popular boys' name with a patriotic, classic feel.
Is Yamato a religious name?
Yamato has no specific religious background; it is a historical and national name rather than a Buddhist one. It is linked to Japan's early history and to the Shinto myths about the land's origins.
How popular is Yamato?
A popular boys' name in Japan in recent decades.
Gifts with the name Yamato
As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. We may earn a small commission from these links, at no extra cost to you.
Names similar to Yamato
More boy names
Frequently asked questions
What does the name Yamato mean?
Yamato means 'Great harmony; old name of Japan'. It is of Japanese origin.
Does Yamato have a religious meaning?
Yamato has no specific religious background; it is a historical and national name rather than a Buddhist one. It is linked to Japan's early history and to the Shinto myths about the land's origins.
How do you pronounce Yamato?
Yamato is pronounced YAH-mah-toh.
Is Yamato a boy or girl name?
Yamato is usually a boy name.