Misao is a unisex Japanese given name that carries a range of meanings depending on the kanji characters used.EtymologyThe most common kanji for Misao is 操 (misao), meaning "chastity, honour". However, the name can also be formed from other combinations of kanji, each giving a different nuance or meaning. It is periodically written in hiragana as みさを.Notable BearersMisao Fujimura (藤村 操; 1886–1903), Japanese philosophy student and poet known for his tragic suicide and accompanying poemMisao Jo (城 みさを; 1913–2018), Japanese textile artist, weaver, and educator who lived past 100Misao Katagiri (片桐 操; 1947–1972), Japanese murderer involved in a famous hostage incidentMisao Kodate (born 1961), Japanese biathlete who competed in the Winter OlympicsMisao Ono (1908–?), Japanese high jumperMisao Tamai (1903–1978), Japanese footballerMisao Yokota (born 1917), Japanese swimmerFictional CharactersMisao Amano from Magical Girl Pretty SammyMisao Harada from the manga Black BirdMisao Kusakabe from Lucky StarMakimachi Misao from Rurouni KenshinMisao Minakami from a light novel seriesCultural SignificanceThe name Misao, especially with the kanji meaning "chastity" or "honour," reflects traditional Japanese virtues. As a unisex name, it is relatively rare in modern times but appears in various historical records and popular culture. The most famous bearer of the name in literature may be Misao Fujimura, whose death became a cultural phenomenon influencing later Japanese writers.Meaning: can mean "chastity, honour" or other meanings based on kanjiOrigin: JapaneseType: given nameUsage regions: Japan