Origin
Japanese (Japanese: 増田, pronounced 'Masuda'). The surname 'Masuda' originates from Japan, where it combines the characters for 'increase' (增) and 'field' (田). Historically, it is a common family name in Japan, and may be adopted in multicultural Australian contexts, especially among Japanese immigrants and descendants. The name appears in Japanese records dating back to the Edo period and is linked with various place names and family lineages.
Meaning
Literal translation is 'increase rice field' or 'prosperous rice paddies'. In Australian English contexts, it often retains its cultural significance as a Japanese surname, symbolising growth and abundance.
Pronunciation
/mɑːˈsuːdɑː/ (Australian English approximation, with emphasis on the second syllable) — 'muh-SOO-dah' with the stress on the second syllable, standard Japanese pronunciation is /masuːda/.
Variants & Nicknames
Variants
- Masuda (original Japanese), Masooda (less common variant in Australia), Masudha (phonetic variation)
- Masuda-san (honorific when used respectfully in cultural settings)
- Masuda (as a surname, used in formal contexts)
Nicknames
- Masa
- Suda
Name Days
- None traditionally observed in Australian religious calendars. However, April 18 is celebrated as 'Japanese Constitution Day', which some Japanese Australians might observe in cultural celebrations.
- April 29 (Showa Day), marking the birthday of Emperor Showa, which is a platform for cultural remembrance.
- 11 February (Setsubun), culturally relevant for Japanese communities in Australia.
Name Pairings
Names that pair well with masuda:
- Emma Masuda (double name)
- Sakura and Masuda (culturally thematic pairings)
- Liam and Masuda (gender-appropriate sibling names)
Fun Facts
- The surname Masuda is represented in Australia through the Japanese diaspora, notably in multicultural communities like Sydney and Melbourne.
- Some Australian athletes of Japanese descent carry the surname Masuda, contributing to Australia’s diverse sports history.
- The name is associated with Japanese cultural festivals in Australia, such as Japan Matsuri.
Personality Traits
Common traits associated with the name masuda:
- Culturally conscious
- Respectful of heritage
- Growth-oriented
- Creative
Aesthetic Qualities
The name's clean, vowel-rich structure lends a balanced and harmonious visual appeal, common in Japanese naming aesthetics, appreciated in multicultural Australian design.
Geographical Distribution
More prevalent in areas with established Japanese communities, such as Sydney's Strathfield and Melbourne's Box Hill, reflecting migration patterns and cultural enclaves.
Numerological Significance
Name number 8, associated with abundance, power, and success in numerology. in Australian astrology, a person born under the influence of Taurus or Capricorn might resonate with qualities attributed to the name.
Astrological Connections
Linked with Earth signs due to its grounding in natural imagery (rice fields, growth). Birth dates may influence personal traits, with a focus on resilience and prosperity.
Historical Context
While primarily a Japanese surname, some Australians have adopted Masuda as a given name inspired by cultural admiration or familial heritage. Notable Australian Japanese community members with the surname include academics, entrepreneurs, and artists.
Linguistic Adaptability
The name adapts by maintaining its original spelling in most contexts but may be transliterated or adapted in phonetics outside Japanese-speaking communities. It remains consistent across scripts, with Roman and kana representations.
Famous People Named masuda
- Masuda Takashi (Japanese filmmaker), Masuda Nozomi (Japanese pop singer), both of whom have influences in Australia through film festivals and music events.
- Yamato Masuda (professional golfer living in Australia)
- The Australian Japanese community often celebrates individuals with the surname Masuda for cultural contributions.
Popularity in Australia
Year | Count |
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2015 | 1 |