Sato

Meaning

Sugar or sweet; also a common place-based surname.

Etymology

Derived from Japanese 'sato' (里), meaning 'village' or 'hamlet,' though some sources suggest connection to 'satoh' (砂糖) meaning 'sugar.' The exact origin varies by family lineage.

About the Sato Surname

One of Japan's most prevalent surnames, typically indicating a village origin or connection. The name reflects the importance of geographic descriptors in Japanese naming traditions.

Distribution

One of the most common surnames in Japan, found throughout Japanese-speaking populations worldwide.

Notable Bearers

Eisaku Sato (Japanese Prime Minister, 1901-1975), Naoki Sato (Japanese footballer)

People with the Sato Surname