US Popularity Rank: 12503

Origin: Japanese

Meaning: Gracious child

Yuko is a girl's name of Japanese origin, meaning "gracious child." It can be written in various ways using the Japanese writing system of kanji, hiragana, or katakana. These variations ever so slightly alter the meaning of Yuko. One of the most famous people in Japan is Yuko Shimizu, the founder of the cartoon "Hello Kitty." Since 1974, the character has spawned TV shows, films, music, and theme parks. UNICEF has even appointed Hello Kitty as children's ambassador, and the Japanese government appointed her as ambassador for tourism. As a role model for your gracious child, there aren't many better.