1. Japanese origin:
* Satsuma Province: The most likely origin is from the Satsuma Province in Japan, which was a feudal domain during the Edo period. The province was known for its production of oranges (Satsuma mandarin) and pottery, which are both associated with the name "Satsuma" today.
2. Alternative theories:
* "Sats" + "uma": Some sources suggest that the name "Satsuma" might have been derived from two Japanese words: "sats" meaning "true" and "uma" meaning "horse," though this theory is less commonly accepted.
* Origin of "satsuma" oranges: There are various theories about the origin of the Satsuma mandarin orange, including the possibility that they were originally grown in China and later introduced to Japan. It's possible the name "Satsuma" was applied to the oranges after they became popular in the Satsuma region.
Overall, the most likely origin of the word "Satsuma" is the Satsuma Province in Japan. The province's association with both oranges and pottery has contributed to the name's current usage.