What does Tatum mean and where does it come from?
The name Tatum has its origins as a surname derived from a place name. It has become increasingly popular as a feminine given name in the United States since the 1980s. Notable figures with the name include actress Tatum O'Neal, who is the youngest person to win a competitive Academy Award.
Cultural significance
Tatum has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in American-speaking communities, where it reflects values of english.
Peak popularity
Reached #329 in 2012 — currently #226 in the US.
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Related Reading
American-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Tatum?
Tatum works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Tatum Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Tatum Rose
Floral · soft ending
Tatum Mae
Sweet · timeless
Tatum Claire
French influence · crisp
Tatum Jane
Literary · strong
Tatum Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Tatum right now?
Rising — up 48 spots — currently #226 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #226 | 1,318 | ▲ up 48 · +14% births |
| 2022 | #274 | 1,156 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 2021 | #279 | 1,137 | ▲ up 64 · +27% births |
| 2020 | #343 | 897 | ▲ up 67 · +15% births |
| 2015 | #410 | 781 | ▼ down 77 · -19% births |
| 2010 | #333 | 965 | ▲ up 10 · +5% births |
| 2005 | #343 | 915 | ▲ up 77 · +36% births |
| 2000 | #420 | 675 | ▲ up 591 · +267% births |
| 1995 | #1011 | 184 | ▲ up 554 · +88% births |
| 1990 | #1565 | 98 | ▲ up 330 · +66% births |
| 1985 | #1895 | 59 | ▼ down 612 · -41% births |
| 1980 | #1283 | 100 | ▼ down 34 · +10% births |
| 1975 | #1249 | 91 | — |
The story of Tatum
Tatum is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 1966. A total of 28,063 babies have received this name. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #1249 in 1975 to #226 in 2023. Tatum is used for both genders: 78% female and 22% male.
Names that peaked alongside Tatum in 2012:
Tatum by decade
Tatum peaked in the 2010s. See all 2010s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1960s | 5 | |
| 1970s | 640 | |
| 1980s | 792 | |
| 1990s | 3,048 | |
| 2000s | 9,111 | |
| 2010s ★ | 12,978 | |
| 2020s | 1,489 | |
What are good nicknames for Tatum?
What names sound and feel like Tatum?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Tatum also consider these
Common questions about the name Tatum
What does the name Tatum mean?
Tatum means "English" — a name rooted in American 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 Tatum?
Tatum is currently ranked #226 in the United States as a baby name in the US and is rapidly gaining popularity — searches for Tatum have increased significantly in recent years.
What is the cultural origin of Tatum?
Tatum originates from American tradition. American names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
How do you pronounce the name Tatum?
Tatum is a two-syllable name pronounced T EY1 T AH0 M. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Tatum trending right now?
Tatum is currently on the rise — it has gained significant momentum in recent years as parents discover its appeal.