Tobio

Tobio is a masculine Japanese given name. It can be written with a variety of kanji, and the meaning depends on the characters chosen. Commonly cited elements include tob(i) “fly” (飛) and雄 “hero/brave” or 男 “man,” but many other kanji combinations are possible. As a result, Tobio can be interpreted in several ways, such as “flying hero” or “flying man,” depending on the kanji used.

In terms of usage, Tobio is relatively uncommon in contemporary Japan but has appeared in literature, film, and manga since the early 20th century. Outside Japan, the name is primarily encountered through Japanese media and transliterations, and it is most familiar to fans of certain anime and manga.

Notable bearers in fiction include Tobio Kageyama, a central character in the manga and anime Haikyuu!!. Kageyama is a setter for Karasuno High School’s volleyball team and is known for his precise play and development as a team leader. The name Tobio remains more widely represented in fiction than as a common real-world given name, contributing to its recognition primarily through popular culture.