Atum is an ancient Egyptian name that has gained popularity in recent years. It is of Egyptian origin and its meaning is often associated with the concept of creation.
In Egyptian mythology, Atum was considered to be the first god and the creator of all things. He was believed to have emerged from the primordial waters, known as Nu, and created the earth and sky by spitting out Shu (the god of air) and swallowing his wife Tefnut (the goddess of moisture). This act resulted in the birth of their children Geb (the god of earth) and Nut (the goddess of the sky).
The name Atum is believed to mean "complete" or "completion." It was often used as a title for pharaohs, signifying that they were responsible for the completion of creation. The word "Atum" can also be translated as "yesterday," reflecting the idea that Atum existed before time began.
Throughout Egyptian history, Atum was worshiped in various forms and under different names. He was often associated with Ra, the sun god, and was sometimes depicted as an old man with a bald head or as a ram. Temples dedicated to Atum could be found throughout Egypt, but his primary cult center was at Heliopolis.
Despite its ancient origins, the name Atum has seen renewed popularity in recent years. It is often chosen by parents who are interested in Egyptian history or mythology and want to give their child a unique and meaningful name with a rich cultural heritage.
In recent years, the name Atum has been a relatively uncommon choice for newborns in the United States. According to data from the Social Security Administration, there were only six babies named Atum born in the U.S. in 2019, and five babies with that name were born in 2020.
However, there was a slight increase in the number of births with the name Atum in 2022, with eight newborns being given that name. Overall, since 2019, a total of nineteen babies have been named Atum in the United States. While this is still not a very common name, it appears to be gaining some popularity among parents looking for unique and distinctive names for their children.
It's worth noting that the data on baby names can vary from year to year, and the popularity of certain names may also fluctuate over time. However, even with its relatively low numbers, the name Atum has been consistently present in recent years, suggesting that it may continue to be a choice for parents seeking an uncommon yet meaningful name for their child.
In conclusion, while the name Atum is not one of the most popular choices for newborns in the United States, it has seen some level of consistent usage since 2019. With its unique sound and distinctive spelling, Atum may continue to appeal to parents looking for a distinctive name for their child.