Maruchan is a Japanese word comprised of two parts, Maru and chan. Maru literally means round, as in the shape of a ball or a happy child’s face. Maru also means rounded, as opposed to square or angular. In Japanese, round has a connotation of friendliness.  The word chan is a suffix, used with a child’s name. “Chan” is used to show endearment and affection for a child.