Welcome to the captivating world of Naruto character names! In the popular anime and manga series “Naruto,” the names of characters hold unique meanings and cultural insights.

This guide uncovers the meanings behind the names, revealing the rich Japanese language and traditions that shaped them. Learn what makes each name and character special!

Hidden Leaf Village (Konohagakure)

Haruno Sakura

Sakura, a talented medical ninja, is strong-willed. Her pink hair, resembling cherry blossoms, adds to her charm.

Name Meaning: “Sakura” means “cherry blossom,” symbolizing her beauty. It’s a popular name for girls in Japan. Learn more about Sakura’s name.

Hatake Kakashi

Kakashi, Team 7’s leader, is wise and skilled in battle.

Name Meaning: “Kakashi” means “scarecrow,” and “Hatake” means “field,” giving a pastoral impression contrary to his cool character. Learn more about Kakashi’s name.

Hyuga Hinata

Hinata, a member of the prestigious Hyuga clan, is gentle yet determined. She has been devoted to Naruto since her early ninja days.

Name Meaning: “Hinata” signifies a “sunny place” in Japanese, mirroring her warm personality. Learn more about Hinata’s name.

Jiraiya

Jiraiya, Naruto’s mentor, is a legendary Sannin and author. His name may be related to his role as a writer.

Name Meaning: Jiraiya is a ninja from a Japanese Edo-period novel. His being a writer may also be related to his name. Learn more about Jiraiya’s name.

Namikaze Minato

Known as the Fourth Hokage, Minato was a legendary ninja with incredible speed.

Name Meaning: “Minato” means “harbor,” and “Namikaze” symbolizes waves and wind, evoking the image of a vast ocean. Learn more about Minato’s name.

Nara Shikamaru

Shikamaru, a strategic genius, is loyal to his friends. His clan has a deep connection with deer, reflecting the meaning of his name, “deer boy.”

Name Meaning:“Shikamaru” means “deer boy,” symbolizing his clan’s relationship with deer. His clan’s connection to deer is famous in Nara Prefecture, Japan. Learn more about Shikamaru’s name.

Uchiha Itachi

Itachi, of the Uchiha clan, is a complex character with a tragic story. He mastered the Sharingan and is considered one of the strongest ninjas.

Name Meaning: “Itachi” means “weasel.” The Uchiha clan’s name often derives from objects of worship or reverence in Japan. Learn more about Itachi’s name.

Uchiha Sasuke

Sasuke seeks revenge and power but values his friendships. His name is inspired by the fictional ninja Sarutobi Sasuke.

Name Meaning: “Sasuke” is a common name for ninja characters in Japanese folklore. The fictional ninja Sarutobi Sasuke is the model for his name. Learn more about Sasuke’s name.

Uzumaki Naruto

Naruto dreams of becoming Hokage and is known for his unbreakable spirit.

Name Meaning: “Naruto” refers to a type of fish cake, often associated with whirlpools, reflecting his energetic nature. Learn more about Naruto’s name.

Hidden Sand Village (Sunagakure)

Gaara

Gaara, the Fifth Kazekage, manipulates sand.

Name Meaning: “Gaara” symbolizes “demon” and “love,” reflecting his complex origin. Read more about Gaara’s name.

Clans Appearing in Naruto

• Aburame: A clan known for controlling insects. “Aburame” refers to a type of oily fish, symbolizing their delicious taste. The kanji for “oil” is used due to the fish’s oily nature.
• Akimichi: Known for producing large, powerful warriors who can enlarge parts of their bodies. “Akimichi” means “autumn road.”
• Hyuga: A prestigious ninja clan, considered the strongest. “Hyuga” was an old province name in Japan.
• Inuzuka: Known for fighting alongside specially trained ninja dogs. “Inuzuka” means “dog’s grave.”
• Nara: Known for shadow manipulation techniques and high intelligence. Likely inspired by Nara Prefecture in Japan, famous for its deer.
• Sarutobi: The clan of the Third Hokage, Hiruzen. Inspired by the fictional ninja Sarutobi Sasuke.
• Senju: The clan of the First and Second Hokage. “Senju” means “thousand hands.”
• Uchiha: A prominent clan in the Hidden Leaf Village. The name derives from “uchiwa,” a fan used to fan flames.
• Umino: The surname of Iruka-sensei. “Umino” means “sea and field.” Iruka-sensei, though a minor character, has a strong fan base.
• Yamanaka: Known for controlling others’ consciousness. “Yamanaka” means “inside the mountain.”