Rising since 1985, #189 for girls today.
Popularity of Tatum since 1966
Babies named Tatum per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls | Boys |
|---|---|---|
| 1960s | 5 | 0 |
| 1970s | 564 | 76 |
| 1980s | 723 | 70 |
| 1990s | 2,857 | 191 |
| 2000s | 8,262 | 853 |
| 2010s | 8,560 | 4,461 |
| 2020s | 7,678 | 7,574 |
Meaning & origin
Tatum is a surname-turned-given-name that has been climbing the charts since 1985, reaching a peak rank of 189 in 2025. Approximately 1 in 968 babies born that year received the name. It first appeared in U.S. records in 1966, making it a relatively modern choice. The name is most popular in states like Wyoming, North Dakota, and South Dakota, reflecting a strong presence in the northern Plains. Its unisex appeal and trendy sound have contributed to its steady rise, positioning it as a fashionable option for parents seeking a name that feels fresh yet grounded.
Tatum originated as a surname of English origin, derived from a place name meaning 'Tate's homestead' or 'homestead of a person named Tate'. The surname was later adopted as a given name, first appearing in U.S. records in the 1960s. It has risen in popularity since the 1980s, particularly as a unisex name.
Where Tatum is most popular
Births per 100,000 girls by state. Press play or drag the slider to watch it move across the decades. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
“Tatum” around the world
Where Tatum lands in the latest official birth statistics abroad, matched to the U.S. spelling.
New Zealand
24
babies in 2025
Sources: NZ Dept of Internal Affairs (New Zealand).
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Tate, Tatie
Sibling names for Tatum
Names that share Tatum's style, for a brother or sister.
Sisters: Harper, Quinn, Sloan, Morgan, Avery, Kaleigh, Josslyn, Shaye, Stevi, Bostyn, Chayla, Colbi, Cortlyn, Payslee, Scotti, Skylen, Staley, Brelynn, Brenae, Burkley, Kendalyn, Mabrey, Paetyn, Bryona, Armonee, Chaley, Delaynee, Jacqueli, Kambrey, Lexxie, Macala, Rumor, Tamaka, Taygan, Topeka, Tyronza
Brothers: Hudson, Reid, Parker, Cooper, Carter, Dekota, Kolton, Destry, Patton, Raylon, Briston, Dreyson, Louden, Renner, Ruston, Trigg, Tydus, Brockton, Kaydan, Laiden, Leelynn, Rawlins, Rayson, Tabias, Brentin, Brentton, Broxton, Cashis, Clarkson, Drevin, Hollister, Kieffer, Marquie, Savage
Names like Tatum
Names whose popularity has moved with Tatum's over the last 50 years.
