Declining since 2010, #2,676 for boys today.
Popularity of Lathan since 1912
Babies named Lathan per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1910s | 38 |
| 1920s | 90 |
| 1930s | 78 |
| 1940s | 84 |
| 1950s | 107 |
| 1960s | 96 |
| 1970s | 133 |
| 1980s | 193 |
| 1990s | 360 |
| 2000s | 1,121 |
| 2010s | 1,558 |
| 2020s | 431 |
Meaning & origin
Lathan is a modern given name that entered the U.S. naming landscape in the early 20th century, with its first recorded use in 1912. It has seen modest but consistent usage, reaching its peak popularity in 2011. As of 2025, it ranks 2,676 with a usage rate of approximately 1 in every 35,585 boys. The name's trajectory has been falling since 2010, indicating a gradual decline in favor. Lathan is most popular in Texas, where it has the highest concentration among states. The name likely derives from the English surname Latham, which itself originates from a place name meaning 'barn' or 'granary' in Old Norse, reflecting the common practice of adopting surnames as first names in English-speaking cultures.
Lathan is generally considered a variant of the English surname Latham, which originates from various places named Latham in England. The place name itself likely derives from the Old Norse word 'hlaða' meaning 'barn' or 'granary', combined with the Old English 'hām' meaning 'homestead'. As a given name, Lathan emerged in the late 20th century, particularly in the United States, following the trend of using surnames as first names.
Where Lathan is most popular
Births per 100,000 boys by state, 2025. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Lath
Variants: Latham
Sibling names for Lathan
Names that share Lathan's style, for a brother or sister.
