-Ichi names

[tayocham]

I was noticing that in the "Samurai" story (and others) there are a ton of name that end in "-ichi" (Kenichi, Katsuichi, Gunichi and the like). I was wondering if that particlar suffix meant anything specific. I do know that "ichi" means "one." Does it mean that they were the first born in their family?

[Steve Hubbell]

Very interesting observation and I would be interested in hearing a possible answer. I know it has been suggested that Katsuichi Sensei's name was derived as a tribute to actor Shintaro "Katsu" and his most famous character Zato "Ichi" but I have never read where Stan confirms or denies this theory.

[go]

Dear Readers,
Ichi means one (1).
Is this the first born?
Best wishes to all!
go

[Stan Sakai]

"Ichi" can mean "one", and can be used as part of the name of the first born male.

Depending on the kanji, it can also mean other things, such as "market". Ichiko could mean "market child", though it is more a girl's name. This could be the child of a merchant or store owner.

"-ji" would be used to denote a second son, such as in names like Kenji or Shunji or Masajiro.

I never heard the Katsuichi/Shintaro Katsu/Zatoichi connection. I just wanted a name appropriate to the character. "Katsuichi" means "win, one" or, in English, "Victor". I thought it fit him.

[Steve Hubbell]

I never heard the Katsuichi/Shintaro Katsu/Zatoichi connection. I just wanted a name appropriate to the character. "Katsuichi" means "win, one" or, in English, "Victor". I thought it fit him.

I don't know where I originally ran across the theory concerning Katsuichi's name, but it sounded so.... logical.

I guess the comment in the trivia section of the Wikipedia article on Usagi Yojimbo needs to be corrected.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Usagi_Yojimbo

Abayo.....