Atlas: Name Meaning, Origin, & Popularity

Boy name origins & meanings

What does Atlas mean and stand for?

Meaning:

Greek: Enduring and strong
Mythological: Bearer of the heavens

Gender: Male

Syllables: 2

Pronunciation: The name Atlas is pronounced at-luhs

The name Atlas is derived from Greek mythology, specifically from the Titan Atlas who was condemned to hold up the sky for eternity. The name signifies endurance and strength, reflecting the mythological figure's role and attributes.

Family name origins & meanings

Jewish (Ashkenazic): ornamental name from German Atlas or Polish at{l-}as, both meaning "satin" (ultimately from an Arabic word meaning "smooth"). It was probably also used as a metonymic occupational name for a merchant dealing in satin goods.

Famous people who gave their babies this name

Anne Heche

Atlas in Pop Culture

Do you know these fictional characters that share this first name?

Atlas from BioShock - A mysterious and pivotal character in the video game series, he is a seemingly helpful guide to the protagonist.
Atlas from Atlas Shrugged - A philosophical novel by Ayn Rand where John Galt, who embodies Atlas, carries the weight of the world on his shoulders.
Atlas from Astro Boy - A recurring antagonist in the classic manga series, who is an advanced robot with a rebellious streak.
Atlas from Battlestar Galactica - The name of an armored Colonial ship that can be outclassed by other vessels in the fleet.

Popularity of the Name Atlas

According to Social Security Administration data, the name Atlas does not appear in the top rankings of popular baby names for the year 2023 as provided by the Social Security Administration. This could indicate that while Atlas has historical and cultural significance, it may not be among the most chosen names for newborns in recent years in the U.S.

The name Atlas is steeped in mythology, with its most famous bearer being the Titan god Atlas from Greek mythology, who was condemned to hold up the sky for eternity. Its mythological roots lend it a sense of strength and endurance. In modern times, the name has seen use not just for individuals but has also been adopted in various forms of media and literature, symbolizing resilience and support.

There haven't been many well-known historical figures or celebrities with the name Atlas, which might contribute to its unique and distinctive appeal for parents seeking a less common name for their child. In terms of fictional characters, Atlas has appeared in works such as Ayn Rand's novel Atlas Shrugged, where it symbolizes the weight of carrying an immense burden, akin to its mythological origins.

While there aren't many notable namesakes with this name, it is very popular among celebrities, having been chosen for the children of Shay Mitchell and Matte Babbel, singer Jonny Blu and actress Jacqueline Piñol, actor Edward Norton and producer Shauna Robertson, musician Claudio Sanchez, and actors Anne Heche and James Tupper.