Tan Name: Complete Etymology, Meaning & Popularity Analysis
Summary
The name Tan originates from Chinese, with meanings related to discussion and communication. It has evolved through various forms in the Chinese language and is linked to historical prominence in Chinese culture. The name is not associated with biblical narratives. Today, it carries a positive perception and is linked to various notable individuals.
Etymology & Cultural Background of "Tan"
Pronunciation
/tæn/
Origin
Chinese
Etymology
The surname Tan is of Chinese origin, derived from the character '谭', which means 'to discuss' or 'to talk'. It is also associated with a river name in China.
Meaning
to discuss, talk
Language Evolution
Tan (谭), T'an (Tang dynasty transliteration), Taan (Hokkien variant)
Historical Usage
The surname Tan has been used in China for centuries, becoming more prominent during the Tang dynasty when many surnames were established.
Variants & Derivatives
Taan, Tanaka, Tana
Modern Popularity & Image
In contemporary society, the name Tan is viewed positively, often associated with intelligence and communication skills.
Famous People
Tan Sri Lim Goh Tong - Malaysian businessman, Tan Weiwei - Chinese singer, Tan Cheng Bock - Singaporean politician
📊 Tan Name Trend Analysis
Boy Name Trend
Recent 3-Year Analysis
Girl Name Trend
Recent 3-Year Analysis
Explore More Tan Name Visualizations
✨ Tan Name Meaning & Significance
Popularity Trend
Less Common name with 29 peak births in 1985
Geographic Spread
Popular across 3 US states, with strongest presence in California
Historical Span
Data spanning 145 years from 1880 to 2024, showing long-term trends
Generational Impact
Influenced 5 different American generations with varying popularity
🔊 Same Pronunciation Names for "Tan" - Complete Guide (2 Names)
Discover the ultimate list of homophone names and same pronunciation names that sound identical to "Tan". These names share the same pronunciation but may have different spellings, offering alternative options for parents seeking similar-sounding names. Whether you're looking for American or British pronunciation variations, this comprehensive guide includes 2 carefully curated names that maintain the same phonetic sound.
Why explore same pronunciation names? Many parents search for homophone names to find alternative spellings that might be more unique or culturally significant. This ultimate list covers both American and British pronunciation patterns, ensuring you find the perfect variation of "Tan" that fits your preferences.
Historical Birth Statistics for the Name "Tan"
Note: Years with identical rankings may represent different numbers of births. Data is sourced from Social Security card applications for births in the United States.
Yearly Ranking History of "Tan"
"Tan" Popularity Across American Generations
| Generation | Gender | Rank | Total Names |
|---|---|---|---|
| Generation X (Gen X) (1965-1980) | Boy | 5344th of 10718 | 57 |
| Millennials (Gen Y) (1981-1996) | Boy | 2952nd of 16616 | 317 |
| Generation Z (Gen Z or Zoomers) (1997-2012) | Boy | 6183rd of 24088 | 190 |
| Generation Alpha (2013-2024) | Boy | 16116th of 23106 | 22 |
| Generation X (Gen X) (1965-1980) | Girl | 15863rd of 19264 | 11 |
Regional Popularity of "Tan" by Generation for Male Names
| TOP(%) | MidWest | Northeast | South | West |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| G.I. Generation (1901-1927) |
- | - | - | - |
| Silent Generation (1928-1945) |
- | - | - | - |
| Baby Boomers (1946-1964) |
- | - | - | - |
| Generation X (Gen X) (1965-1980) |
- | - | - |
57.34% 2319th/4044 |
| Millennials (Gen Y) (1981-1996) |
- | - |
53.58% 2783rd/5194 |
30.39% 1920th/6317 |
| Generation Z (Gen Z or Zoomers) (1997-2012) |
- | - | - |
57.18% 4267th/7463 |
| Generation Alpha (2013-2024) |
- | - | - | - |
Regional Popularity of "Tan" by Generation for Female Names
| TOP(%) | MidWest | Northeast | South | West |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| G.I. Generation (1901-1927) |
- | - | - | - |
| Silent Generation (1928-1945) |
- | - | - | - |
| Baby Boomers (1946-1964) |
- | - | - | - |
| Generation X (Gen X) (1965-1980) |
- | - | - | - |
| Millennials (Gen Y) (1981-1996) |
- | - | - | - |
| Generation Z (Gen Z or Zoomers) (1997-2012) |
- | - | - | - |
| Generation Alpha (2013-2024) |
- | - | - | - |
State-by-State Popularity of "Tan"
This map shows the relative popularity of "Tan" across states, calculated by dividing the number of births with this name in each state by the total births in that state. This methodology provides a standardized measure of popularity regardless of state population size.
Comprehensive Regional & Generational Popularity Trends of "Tan" in the United States
The name Tan is most popular in California, USA across all generations. It ranks highest as a Boy name among the Millennials (Gen Y) generation in the West region. Recent 3-year trends show this Boy name is maintaining steady popularity, while the 25-year trend indicates it has been relatively stable. Recent 3-year trends show this Girl name is maintaining steady popularity, while the 25-year trend indicates it has been relatively stable. From 2020-2022, Tan has been stalled for male in South, stalled for male in West. The long-term 25-year analysis reveals it has been stalled for male in South, stalled for male in West. Across generations, 'Tan' has shown interesting popularity patterns: Among the Generation X (Gen X) (1965-1980), it ranked 5344th out of 10718 names. Among the Millennials (Gen Y) (1981-1996), it ranked 2952nd out of 16616 names. Among the Generation Z (Gen Z or Zoomers) (1997-2012), it ranked 6183rd out of 24088 names. Among the Generation Alpha (2013-2024), it ranked 16116th out of 23106 names. Among the Generation X (Gen X) (1965-1980), it ranked 15863rd out of 19264 names. Discover how the name 'Tan' has evolved through American history with our comprehensive regional and generational analysis.