Ataru

to shine, to illuminate
Japanese origin · Unisex name
50% boys50% girls
#1965US 2023
10Births / yr
Stable
Top 1.4%Percentile

What does Ataru mean and where does it come from?

Ataru is derived from the Japanese verb 'ataru', meaning 'to shine' or 'to illuminate'.

Cultural significance
The name is used in Japan and can be found in various contexts, including literature and popular culture.
Peak popularity
Reached #1965 in 2015 — currently #1965 in the US.
🌿
Related Reading
Japanese-origin baby names with timeless appeal
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How else can you spell Ataru?

Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive

What middle names flow best with Ataru?

Ataru works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful

Ataru Jack
One syllable · timeless choice
Ataru John
One syllable · timeless choice
Ataru Miles
One syllable · vintage charm
Ataru Leah
One syllable · timeless choice
Ataru Brooks
One syllable · timeless choice
Ataru Gael
One syllable · timeless choice
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Middle Names
The best middle names for Ataru
Browse ideas →

How popular is Ataru right now?

Holding steady — currently #1965 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names

US Trend 20192023#1965 · Top 1.4%
2019
2020
2021
2022
2023
YearUS RankBirthsvs Prior Year
2023#196510stable
2022#196510stable
2021#196510stable
2020#196510stable
2019#196510
💎Ataru is exceptionally rare — it does not appear in US Social Security records, meaning fewer than 5 babies per year have received this name.

What are good nicknames for Ataru?

Common
AtaAtAtieAty

Common questions about the name Ataru

What does the name Ataru mean?
Ataru means "to shine, to illuminate" — a name rooted in Japanese tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.
How popular is the name Ataru?
Ataru is currently a distinctive and less common name as a baby name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Ataru?
Ataru originates from Japanese tradition. Japanese names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
What sibling names go well with Ataru?
Ataru pairs beautifully with sibling names that share a similar Greek heritage or complement its melodic and flowing sound. Names with a similar vibe create a cohesive sibling set without matching too closely.
Is Ataru more of a girl or boy name?
Ataru is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.