Zenitsu Agatsuma is one of the main protagonists in the popular anime and manga series Demon Slayer. While he is simply referred to as “Zenitsu” throughout the series, some fans have wondered whether he has a full name that includes a family name or surname. In this article, we will explore Zenitsu’s full name and the meaning behind it.
Zenitsu’s Surname
Although he is usually just called “Zenitsu”, the character’s full name is Zenitsu Agatsuma. Agatsuma is his family name or surname. This surname is revealed in official Demon Slayer media, including the manga and anime credits. For example, in the anime ending credits, he is listed as “Zenitsu Agatsuma”.
In Japanese culture, the surname or family name comes before the given name. So Zenitsu’s full name in Japanese order would be Agatsuma Zenitsu. This follows the traditional Eastern naming order of Family Name + Given Name that is used in many Asian countries.
The Meaning Behind the Name
In Japanese, Zenitsu’s full name has some poetic meaning that offers insight into his character.
The surname “Agatsuma” contains the kanji characters 我 (aga) meaning “self” and 漆 (tsuma) meaning “lacquer”. Together, Agatsuma refers to a type of natural Japanese lacquer.
His given name “Zenitsu” is written with the kanji 禅 (zen) meaning “Zen Buddhism” and 津 (tsu) meaning “harbor”. Together, Zenitsu roughly translates to “Zen harbor”.
The meaning behind Zenitsu Agatsuma evokes the image of a harbor providing calm and spiritual Zen. This reflects Zenitsu’s frequent desire to find peace, avoid conflict, and rest.
Appearance in the Series
Zenitsu Agatsuma plays a major role in Demon Slayer as one of Tanjiro Kamado’s comrades. He is a Demon Slayer in the Demon Slaying Corps and uses the Breath of Thunder style.
Some key facts about Zenitsu’s appearance in the series include:
- He has yellow hair and eyes
- Wears a standard Demon Slayer uniform with a yellow-and-black lined haori
- Carries a single sword passed down from his teacher
- Uses the Breath of Thunder style and its techniques
- Always seen carrying or playing his shamisen guitar
Despite his cowardly personality, Zenitsu displays impressive swordsmanship when unconscious or asleep. He cannot fully control this powerful “sleeping” state, however.
Zenitsu’s Personality and Relationships
Zenitsu has a complex personality that shapes his relationships and development in the story. Some key traits include:
- Cowardly, frightened personality
- Complainer who constantly talks about wanting a quiet life or pretty girlfriend
- Low self-esteem and lack of confidence in his skills
- Prone to nervous breakdowns and comical panic attacks
- Caring friend who will still risk his life to protect others
Zenitsu develops close friendships with his fellow Demon Slayers:
- Tanjiro Kamado – His best friend who helps him gradually gain confidence
- Inosuke Hashibira – Their bickering friendship masks mutual care and respect
- Nezuko Kamado – Fiercely protective of Tanjiro’s demon sister
He also forms a bond with the young demon girl Nezuko, vowing to turn her human again and defending her demon nature from harm.
Zenitsu’s Abilities
Despite his lack of confidence, Zenitsu possesses some notable abilities as a Demon Slayer:
- Keen Hearing – Can hear things from miles away, making him effective as a lookout
- Breath of Thunder Style – Specializes in fast lightning-based sword techniques
- Godspeed State – Displays uncanny reflexes and speed when unconscious
His signature move is the First Form: Thunderclap and Flash. When using his Godspeed state, Zenitsu can quickly slice enemies before they realize what happened.
He learned the Breath of Thunder style from the former Thunder Hashira, Jigoro Kuwajima. It focuses on lightning-quick forms ideal for fast movements and attacks.
Conclusion
While simply known as “Zenitsu” most of the time, examining Zenitsu Agatsuma’s full name provides deeper insight into his character. His Japanese name evokes a peaceful Zen harbor, reflecting his personality and dreams. Despite his flaws and fears, Zenitsu plays a key role in Demon Slayer as Tanjiro’s close friend and ally.