The word "Hamtaro" is a portmanteau of the words "hamster" and "taro". Taro is a common name for boys in Japan, and it is often used to refer to young boys in general. The name Hamtaro is therefore appropriate for a series about a young hamster boy.
The Hamtaro series has been popular with children around the world. The series has been translated into over 30 languages, and it has been adapted into several video games, books, and other merchandise.