Holding steady.
Popularity of Payam since 1977
Babies named Payam per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1970s | 22 |
| 1980s | 89 |
| 1990s | 71 |
| 2000s | 11 |
| 2010s | 0 |
| 2020s | 0 |
Meaning & origin
Payam, a Persian name meaning 'message,' has maintained a steady but rare presence in the United States since it first appeared in Social Security records in 1977. It reached its peak usage in 1990, though even then it did not rank among the top 1,000 names. The name's trajectory shows a stable pattern over the decades, with no significant spike or decline. Despite its low frequency, Payam remains a meaningful choice for families with Iranian heritage, connecting a child to Persian language and culture. Parents considering this name often appreciate its straightforward meaning and phonetic elegance.
Payam is a Persian word meaning 'message' or 'news,' derived from the Middle Persian 'payām' with the same meaning. The name saw a rise in usage among Iranian families in the late 20th century, particularly after the 1979 revolution, and remains a common given name in Iran and diaspora communities. Its use elsewhere in the Persian-speaking world extends to Afghanistan and Tajikistan.
Sibling names for Payam
Names that share Payam's style, for a brother or sister.
