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Where did the Honda name come from?

I thought Honda was named after the founder, but my friend at work says it is a Japanese word. Where did the name of the Honda car company come from?

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Brittni Brinn · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
As it turns out, you and your work buddy are both correct! Soichiro Honda founded the original Honda company, but the word Honda also translates to original rice field in Japanese. The name reflected the rural landscape of Japan at the time the company was created and was considered a trustworthy title.
Here’s a brief overview of Honda’s history:
  • The Honda Technical Research Institute was founded in 1946 to make efficient engines.
  • The company was incorporated in 1948 and changed its name to the Honda Motor Company. Over the next year, Honda’s focus shifted to motorcycle manufacturing.
  • Honda’s first car was manufactured in 1963.
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