Hi, it’s Junko from Japan. The name NARUTO, the main character of NARUTO, comes from Japanese food. Seeing is believing. Here’s the NARUTO!
Today, we’re exploring the world of anime, focusing on a name that’s become globally recognized – NARUTO.
This popular character’s name is rooted in Japanese cuisine and culture. Intrigued to discover the true Naruto meaning in Japanese? Let’s get started!
The Meaning of Naruto in the Japanese Language
Have you ever noticed those white and pink-swirled toppings on your Ramen? That’s NARUTO, a type of KAMABOKO (Japanese fish cake) often used to garnish dishes.
A common food in Japan, Naruto is elastic and slightly sweet. You can find it in any supermarket for around 200 JPY (1 to 2 USD).
The Significance of ‘UZUMAKI’ in Naruto’s Name
Naruto’s full name is UZUMAKI NARUTO. UZUMAKI translates to ‘swirl’ or ‘spiral’ in Japanese, symbolizing the swirl in the Naruto fish cake.
The food Naruto was named after NARUTO NO UZUSHIO in Tokushima prefecture, a sightseeing spot famous for its large whirlpools.
UZU = whirling, swirl
SHIO = wave, tide
This connection also explains why Naruto’s signature move is the ‘Rasengan’ or ‘Spiralling Sphere'”!
Is ‘NARUTO’ a Common Name in Japan?
While NARUTO is a common food, it’s not typically used as a person’s name. Naming someone Naruto would be akin to naming them ‘Potato’ or ‘Hamburger’.
How to Write and Pronounce ‘UZUMAKI NARUTO’ in Japanese
UZUMAKI NARUTO is written in Japanese as follows:
UZUMAKI is written in Hiragana characters, and NARUTO is in Katakana. Though Japanese last names are usually written in Kanji, Hiragana is often used for creative works like manga and anime. First names in Katakana are less common, but not unheard of.
In terms of pronunciation, UZUMAKI NARUTO is pronounced as ‘U-Zu-Ma-Ki Na-Ru-To’. Note that Japanese doesn’t have a distinct ‘R’ sound, so it’s pronounced closer to ‘Na-Lu-To’.
Discover More: The Meanings Behind Names of Other NARUTO Characters
If you’re interested in the meanings behind the names of other characters in NARUTO, check out the links below!
What’s the Meaning of SASUKE in Japanese? It Comes from a Legendary Ninja!
What’s the Meaning of KAKASHI in Japanese?
What’s the Meaning of GAARA in Japanese Kanji?
What’s the Last Name of JIRAIYA in NARUTO?
What Is CHAKRA in the NARUTO World? How You Generate the Ninja Energy
Read More: Naruto Characters Names: A Guide to Meanings and Origins
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