Anime Cat Names

Kanon is a masculine name with multiple cultural origins. In Japanese, it relates to the Buddhist goddess of mercy (観音), representing compassion and perception. In Western contexts, it may be a variant of Canon, derived from Greek 'kanon' meaning 'rule' or 'standard,' suggesting someone who exemplifies principles or standards. The name also carries musical associations, as a 'canon' is a compositional technique where melodies imitate each other. This multicultural name has gained modest usage in recent decades, appealing to parents seeking names with cross-cultural significance. Kanon's simplicity, distinctive sound, and rich cultural connections make it an intriguing choice that works well internationally while remaining relatively uncommon.

The only bearers of this name are fictional, such as the Naruto character Sasori of the Red Sand.

Common Japanese name among Gen X women.

Seen as a name for this first time in the anime Sailor Moon.

Kouki is an uncommon choice in Japan today, but it's been used for several anime characters.

Common botanical choice in Japan.

Depending on the kanji used, this sweet name can have links to the number three, making it perfect for a third child.

No - not a creative spelling of Katy. This name, which can be used for boys or girls, means maple tree. Kaede is unusual in Japan although it has been gaining more popularity after it has been used for several anime and manga characters.

Older Japanese name given new life in the anime series One Piece.

Unisex Japanese name more often given to boys.

Commonly associated with the Japanese beverage company Asahi, which produces a beer by the same name.

Jinbe, also called Jinbei or Jimbei is a whale-like character in the anime series One Piece. His name comes from the word jinbei-zame, "whale-shark."

Also written as Eijirō or Eijirou, this name was traditionally borne by second-born sons.

Chibi is Japanese slang for someone or something small (and typically cute). It is not used as a given name in the real world, however, a number of anime characters are named Chibi.

Gem names are having their moment — metal names could feasibly be next.

Kabuto is a type of ancient Japanese warrior helmet. It is not a traditional Japanese baby name, rather, Kabuto has been used as a name in anime series including Naruto and Pokemon.

Although he goes by the alias Pain in Naruto, Nagato's name actually means "long-lasting gate." It is speculated that his name comes from famed 16th-century ninja Fujibayashi Nagato.

The name Kyubey was created for the primary villain of the anime series Mahou Shoujo Madoka Magica. It was derived from the word "incubator," which relates to the character's lack of a personal soul and desire to gain energy from girls. Kyubey is sonically resonant to kyuubi, mythical nine-tailed Japanese foxes.

Shikamaru Nara is one of the most popular characters from Naruto, although this has not translated to any American or many Japanese babies being given the name.

With Bear and Fox becoming hot baby names, why not Panda? Why not indeed. Both the name and its animal namesake are adorable. And Pan is a nickname right in line with the mythological name trend. The word panda comes from the Nepali word ponya, meaning "bamboo eater" for the panda's favorite food.