Toyoda is a Japanese surname composed of the elements 豊 (toyo) meaning "bountiful, luxuriant" and 田 (ta) meaning "field, rice paddy". The name literally refers to a "bountiful rice paddy." Etymology The name is written with the same kanji as the common Japanese surname Toyoda, and its etymology reflects agricultural abundance. The toyo element appears in various other Japanese names and words signifying richness or prosperity. Notable Bearers Perhaps the most famous bearer is Kiichiro Toyoda (1894-1952), the founder of the Toyota Motor Corporation. Interestingly, the company's name was changed to Toyota (トヨタ) because the eight-stroke character of the Tajima logo was considered more auspicious than the ten strokes of Toyoda. Other notable bearers include Sakichi Toyoda (1867-1930), inventor and industrialist who founded Toyota Industries, and Eiji Toyoda (1913-2013), who oversaw the development of the Toyota production system and served as the company's chairman. Variants and Related Names The companion surname Toyota (also written 豊田) is a slight variation but pronounced differently in Japanese due to the alternation of the voiced and unvoiced “d” sound. Both surnames share the same kanji reading and are fundamentally related. Meaning: "bountiful rice paddy" Origin: Japanese toponymic surname Type: Surname Usage: Japanese