Why is it Called Saiyan?

In the Dragon Ball series, the term Saiyan refers to a powerful and warrior-like race of beings from the planet Vegeta. The Saiyans are known for their fighting prowess, their ability to transform into Super Saiyans, and their role as key characters in the Dragon Ball saga. But have you ever wondered where the name "Saiyan" comes from? Why is the warrior race called "Saiyan"? Let’s dive into the origins of the name and its significance within the Dragon Ball universe.

Origin of the Name "Saiyan"

The term "Saiyan" is a play on words, created by Dragon Ball creator Akira Toriyama. The name Saiyan is derived from a word in the Japanese language, "yasai" (野菜), which means "vegetable." The Saiyan race, as a whole, is tied to vegetable-themed names, a naming convention that Toriyama employed for many of the Saiyan characters.

If you break down the word "Saiyan," you'll notice it sounds similar to the Japanese word "Saiya" (サイヤ), which is a reversed form of "yasai" (vegetable). This subtle but clever wordplay makes sense when you look at the names of the individual Saiyan characters. For example:

• Kakarot (Goku’s birth name) is based on carrot.
• Raditz is based on radish.
• Vegeta is based on vegetable.
• Nappa is based on "nappa" (a type of cabbage).
• Broly is derived from broccoli.

So, the name Saiyan is part of a broader trend in Dragon Ball where many characters' names are inspired by food items—particularly vegetables.

The Saiyan Race’s Origins

The Saiyan race, as a species, is one of the most important elements of the Dragon Ball universe. They are a proud warrior race with a rich history, strong combat abilities, and a deep connection to their home planet, Planet Vegeta. The Saiyans were known for their strength, ruthlessness, and their ability to grow stronger after every battle. Their natural fighting instincts, combined with their ability to transform into Super Saiyans, made them a formidable force in the universe.

The Saiyans were ruled by their king, King Vegeta, and their ultimate goal was to conquer other planets. However, their civilization was destroyed when Frieza, the tyrant ruler of the universe, destroyed Planet Vegeta to eliminate the Saiyan threat. This tragic event led to the last surviving Saiyans—Goku, Vegeta, and Nappa, among others—being scattered throughout the universe.

The Significance of the Name "Saiyan"

The name Saiyan holds more significance than just being a clever play on words. It symbolizes the warrior spirit of the race. The Saiyans, despite being ruthless in their early days, eventually evolved into characters with complex personalities and motivations. Some Saiyans, like Vegeta and Goku, began to grow beyond their original, destructive nature. Over time, these characters developed a strong sense of pride, honor, and compassion.

For Vegeta, the title of Prince of all Saiyans was something that he took great pride in. As a warrior race, the Saiyans lived for battle, and their power and determination became their defining features. However, the name also serves as a reminder of the destruction and pain the Saiyan race faced, particularly at the hands of Frieza. The fall of Planet Vegeta and the near extinction of the Saiyan race gave rise to the complex relationships and emotional journeys of the surviving Saiyans.

Saiyan Name Conventions

As mentioned earlier, the Saiyan naming system in Dragon Ball is primarily food-themed, especially with vegetables. This is not just a fun little quirk; it is an important aspect of the lore. Each Saiyan's name often correlates with a vegetable, and this theme runs through their family lines.

• Kakarot (Goku) – Carrot
• Vegeta – Vegetable
• Raditz – Radish
• Nappa – Cabbage
• Bardock – Derived from "burdock," a root vegetable.
• Broly – Broccoli
• Turles – Turnip

This naming system adds a layer of light-hearted humor to the Dragon Ball universe, though it also serves as a unique aspect of the Saiyan culture. Despite their fearsome reputations and their violent past, the names of these characters bring a sense of whimsy and fun to their otherwise intense personalities.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the name "Saiyan" is a creative and clever choice by Akira Toriyama, reflecting both the warrior spirit of the race and the light-hearted naming conventions associated with it. The Saiyan race is integral to the Dragon Ball universe, and its name—while humorous—carries significant weight in the context of their heritage, their connection to Vegeta, and their defining traits as a powerful warrior race. Despite the tragic fall of their planet and the subsequent hardships they faced, the Saiyans continue to play a key role in the Dragon Ball saga, with characters like Goku, Vegeta, and Broly continuing to showcase the enduring legacy of the Saiyan name.