Atlas is a name of Greek origin, derived from the Titan god of the same name in Greek mythology. In ancient Greek lore, Atlas was one of the Titans who fought against the Olympians during the Titanomachy. After their defeat, Zeus, the king of the gods, condemned Atlas to bear the weight of the heavens on his shoulders as punishment.
The name Atlas has been popular throughout history and across various cultures. It is often associated with strength, resilience, and the ability to shoulder heavy burdens. This association may stem from the mythological figure of Atlas who was tasked with carrying the world on his shoulders.
In the context of geography, the Atlantic Ocean is named after Atlas, reflecting the ancient belief that this ocean was located in the realm of the Titans. Additionally, the atlas as a book of maps is named after Atlas, symbolizing the idea of bearing or carrying the world's geographical information.
The name Atlas has been used as a given name for boys and girls alike, though it is more commonly used for boys. It has gained popularity in recent years, particularly in English-speaking countries such as the United States, Canada, and Australia. Despite its increasing usage, Atlas remains a unique and distinctive name that carries with it a rich history and cultural significance.
In conclusion, Atlas is a strong and memorable name with roots in ancient Greek mythology. Its association with strength and resilience makes it an appealing choice for parents seeking a powerful and meaningful name for their child.
Based on the statistics provided, it is clear that the name Atlas has seen a significant increase in popularity over time in the United States.
From 1883 to around 1945, there were relatively few births per year with the name Atlas. However, starting in the late 1940s, there was a noticeable rise in popularity, with more than 10 births per year occurring regularly from then on.
In fact, between 2013 and 2023, the number of births with the name Atlas has grown exponentially, reaching an all-time high of over 3000 births in just one year. This represents a tremendous increase compared to earlier periods, indicating that Atlas is currently one of the most popular boys' names in the United States.
Overall, it appears that parents have become more drawn to the name Atlas over time, with its popularity rising steadily since the mid-20th century and surging dramatically within the last decade.