IPA Pronunciation

tɑːˈnɑːkɑː

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Syllables

The name Tanaka is of Japanese origin, meaning 'central rice field,' derived from the kanji '田' (ta) meaning 'rice field' and '中' (naka) meaning 'center' or 'middle.' Historically, rice cultivation was central to Japanese agriculture and society, making this name reflective of prosperity and sustenance.

Cultural Significance of Tanaka

In Japan, Tanaka is one of the most common surnames, symbolizing a deep connection to rice farming, which was the backbone of traditional Japanese society and economy. The name evokes images of fertile land and communal well-being, often associated with rural life and agricultural heritage. It also reflects family ties to ancestral land and tradition.

Tanaka Name Popularity in 2025

Today, Tanaka remains a popular surname and occasionally a given name in Japan and among Japanese diaspora. It is recognized worldwide due to notable figures in sports, arts, and business. The name's agricultural roots make it appealing for parents valuing tradition and nature, while its simplicity and melodic sound suit contemporary naming trends.

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Popular Nicknames10

TanaTanNakaTannyT.K.TakaTan-TanNakiTazTano
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International Variations10

TanakaTannakaTaneko (female variation)TanakaeTanakashiTanakazuTanakitoTanakamiTanakamotoTanakaya

Similar Names You Might Love7

Name Energy & Essence

The name Tanaka carries the essence of “Central rice field” from Japanese tradition. Names beginning with "T" often embody qualities of truth-seeking, tenacity, and transformation.

Symbolism

Cultural Significance

In Japan, Tanaka is one of the most common surnames, symbolizing a deep connection to rice farming, which was the backbone of traditional Japanese society and economy. The name evokes images of fertile land and communal well-being, often associated with rural life and agricultural heritage. It also reflects family ties to ancestral land and tradition.

Tanaka Giichi

Japanese general and Prime Minister known for his role in early 20th-century politics and militarism.

Tanaka Yoshio

Pioneering Japanese botanist and early promoter of natural sciences in Japan.

Tanaka Chikuden

Renowned Edo period painter celebrated for his bird-and-flower paintings.

Tanaka

🌐Spanish

Tanaka

🌐French

Tanaka

🌐German

Tanaka

🌐Italian

田中

🌐Japanese

田中

🌐Chinese

تاناكا

🌐Arabic

Fun Fact About Tanaka

Tanaka is the 4th most common surname in Japan, making it a name with widespread recognition and cultural depth.

Personality Traits for Tanaka

Individuals named Tanaka are often perceived as grounded, dependable, and hardworking. They tend to be community-oriented, valuing family and tradition. Their personality may combine calmness with quiet strength, reflecting the nurturing and sustaining qualities symbolized by rice fields.

What does the name Tanaka mean?

Tanaka is a Japanese name meaning “Central rice field”. The name Tanaka is of Japanese origin, meaning 'central rice field,' derived from the kanji '田' (ta) meaning 'rice field' and '中' (naka) meaning 'center' or 'middle.' Historically, rice cultivation was central to Japanese agriculture and society, making this name reflective of prosperity and sustenance.

How do you pronounce Tanaka?

Tanaka is pronounced (IPA: tɑːˈnɑːkɑː). It has 2 syllables with the pattern N/A.

What are nicknames for Tanaka?

Popular nicknames for Tanaka include: Tana, Tan, Naka, Tanny, T.K., Taka, Tan-Tan, Naki, Taz, Tano.

Who are famous people named Tanaka?

Famous people named Tanaka include: , , , Tanaka Reina, Tanaka Rina.

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Tanaka is a beautiful Japanese name meaning “Central rice field”. The name Tanaka is of Japanese origin, meaning 'central rice field,' derived from the kanji '田' (ta) meaning 'rice field' and '中' (naka) meaning 'center' or 'middle.' Historically, rice cultivation wa...

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