Shimizu Jirocho
A legendary Edo-period yakuza boss known for his chivalry and influence in the Tokugawa era.
IPA Pronunciation
jɑːˈkuːzɑː
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Syllables
The name 'Yakuza' originates from a Japanese card game called Oicho-Kabu, where 'ya' means eight, 'ku' means nine, and 'za' means three. Combined, these numbers (8-9-3) represent a losing hand. Historically, the term evolved to refer to Japanese organized crime syndicates. While not traditionally a personal name, its cultural weight and etymology are significant.
Cultural Significance of Yakuza
The term 'Yakuza' is deeply ingrained in Japanese culture as the name for organized crime groups with a complex history dating back to the Edo period. They have been romanticized and vilified in media, symbolizing loyalty, honor, and sometimes corruption. The name evokes strong imagery and cultural narratives around crime and social order in Japan.
Yakuza Name Popularity in 2025
Today, 'Yakuza' primarily refers to criminal syndicates in Japan and is not used as a personal name. In popular culture, it appears in movies, video games, and literature, often highlighting the mystique and traditions of these groups. The name carries a controversial yet fascinating aura, impacting its perception worldwide.
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International Variations9
YakusaYakuzaaYakuzahYakuzaeYakuzaoYakuzanYakuziYakuzeYakuzu
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More Boy Names Starting With Y10
Name Energy & Essence
The name Yakuza carries the essence of “A term associated with Japanese organized crime, literally 'eight-nine-three'.” from Japanese tradition. Names beginning with "Y" often embody qualities of youthful energy, intuition, and yearning for knowledge.
Symbolism
Cultural Significance
The term 'Yakuza' is deeply ingrained in Japanese culture as the name for organized crime groups with a complex history dating back to the Edo period. They have been romanticized and vilified in media, symbolizing loyalty, honor, and sometimes corruption. The name evokes strong imagery and cultural narratives around crime and social order in Japan.
Fukushima Masanori
A samurai turned yakuza figure, known for organizing early crime syndicates in post-feudal Japan.
Yamamoto Gonnohyōe
Though not a yakuza, his era saw the rise of organized crime groups that shaped modern yakuza.
Ishikawa Goemon
Legendary outlaw often romanticized in yakuza folklore for his rebellious acts against authority.
Kakuji Inagawa
Founder of the Inagawa-kai, one of Japan’s largest yakuza organizations.
Kenji Shibuya
Noted for bridging traditional yakuza codes with modern criminal enterprises.
Takeshi Kitano
Filmmaker/actor
Shintaro Katsu
Actor
Masaharu Fukuyama
Musician/actor
Ryuhei Kitamura
Director
Hiroshi Fujioka
Actor
Kiyoshi Kurosawa
Film director
Joe Odagiri
Actor
Tadanobu Asano
Actor
Yakuza (1974) ()
The Yakuza (1974) ()
Yakuza Apocalypse ()
Like a Dragon (Yakuza series) ()
Outrage ()
Sonatine ()
Black Rain ()
Dead or Alive: Final ()
Yakuza
🌐Spanish
Yakuza
🌐French
Yakuza
🌐German
Yakuza
🌐Italian
ヤクザ
🌐Japanese
ヤ库扎 (Yǎkùzhā)
🌐Chinese
ياكوزا
🌐Arabic
Fun Fact About Yakuza
The word 'Yakuza' literally means '8-9-3,' representing a losing hand in a traditional Japanese card game, symbolizing the group's outsider status.
Personality Traits for Yakuza
Associated with strength, resilience, loyalty, and complexity. Individuals inspired by the name might be seen as determined, enigmatic, and commanding respect. However, due to the name's association with crime, it also suggests a rebellious and unconventional nature.
What does the name Yakuza mean?
Yakuza is a Japanese name meaning “A term associated with Japanese organized crime, literally 'eight-nine-three'.”. The name 'Yakuza' originates from a Japanese card game called Oicho-Kabu, where 'ya' means eight, 'ku' means nine, and 'za' means three. Combined, these numbers (8-9-3) represent a losing hand. Historically, the term evolved to refer to Japanese organized crime syndicates. While not traditionally a personal name, its cultural weight and etymology are significant.
How do you pronounce Yakuza?
Yakuza is pronounced (IPA: jɑːˈkuːzɑː). It has 2 syllables with the pattern N/A.
What are nicknames for Yakuza?
Popular nicknames for Yakuza include: Yaku, Kuzu, Zaza, Yaz, Kuza, YaYa, Kaz, Yakuzy, Zuki, Yazzy.
Who are famous people named Yakuza?
Famous people named Yakuza include: , , , , .
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Yakuza is a beautiful Japanese name meaning “A term associated with Japanese organized crime, literally 'eight-nine-three'.”. The name 'Yakuza' originates from a Japanese card game called Oicho-Kabu, where 'ya' means eight, 'ku' means nine, and 'za' means three. Combined, these numbers (8-9-3) represent a losing hand. Histor...
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