How common is the Kobayashi surname?

There are approximately 1,500,000 people with the surname Kobayashi in the United States.

Kobayashi

Q: What does the surname Kobayashi mean?

The surname Kobayashi means "Small forest or grove; a combination of 'ko' (small) and 'hayashi' (forest or grove).". It is of Japanese origin.

Topographic

Meaning

Small forest or grove; a combination of 'ko' (small) and 'hayashi' (forest or grove).

Etymology

The surname derives from Japanese elements 'ko' (小, small) and 'hayashi' (林, forest or grove), indicating a topographic origin referring to a small wooded area. This is one of the most common Japanese surnames.

About the Kobayashi Surname

This is one of the most common Japanese surnames, with topographic origins referring to a small forest or grove. The name has been documented in Japanese records for centuries and is widespread in modern Japan and internationally.

Distribution & Frequency

Estimated 1,500,000 bearers in the United States #42 most common surname

Rare Common

Extremely common throughout Japan, with significant presence in Japanese diaspora communities worldwide.

Notable Bearers

People with the Kobayashi Surname

Kinuji Kobayashi

Quick Facts

Origin: Japanese
Classification: Topographic
Earliest Record: Medieval period
Estimated Bearers: 1,500,000