Atlas

male

Origin

From Greek ἄτλας (Átlas), meaning 'bearer of', related to the Titan Atlas who held up the sky in Greek mythology. The name has been adopted into English and other languages, often associated with the world map or globe, as 'atlas' refers to a collection of maps.

Meaning

Literal translation: 'bearer of' or 'world' in a figurative sense. In Australian English contexts, it evokes notions of exploration, global awareness, and strength.

Pronunciation

/ˈætləs/ (Australian English pronunciation, emphasis on first syllable, with a soft 't' and clear 's') ,"/ˈætləs/" ,"AT-ləs" (phonetic spelling) ,"Stress on the first syllable"

Variants & Nicknames

Variants

  • Atlas (standard),
  • Atlás (less common, from Greek transliteration)
  • Атлас (Russian),
  • アトラス (Japanese katakana for phonetic adaptation)

Nicknames

  • Atl
  • Lass
  • Atty

Name Days

  • Available in some Christian calendars, but no specific date is commonly celebrated for Atlas.
  • In Australia, no traditional name day associated with Atlas, reflecting its modern, mythological origin rather than religious or cultural observance.
  • N/A for Aboriginal or Māori cultural events, as the name is of Greek origin.

Name Pairings

Names that pair well with atlas:

  • Leo and Atlas (strength and exploration)
  • Oliver and Atlas (classic and adventurous)
  • Ethan and Atlas (modern and strong)

Fun Facts

  • The name Atlas is used for a popular line of globes and maps, symbolising exploration and knowledge.
  • In Australian popular culture, Atlas is occasionally used for imaginative stories or characters embodying strength and resilience.
  • Famous Tall Ship 'HMS Atlas' contributed to Australian naval history.

Personality Traits

Common traits associated with the name atlas:

  • Adventurous
  • Strong
  • Resilient
  • Intelligent

Aesthetic Qualities

The name has a solid, balanced visual structure, with a clear and symmetrical spelling that appeals in modern typography and branding in Australia. It conveys strength and stability.

Geographical Distribution

While widespread across Australia, the name Atlas tends to be more popular in metropolitan areas like Sydney and Melbourne, linking to its modern, cosmopolitan appeal.

Numerological Significance

Number 9 (if calculated using Pythagorean numerology), associated with idealism, humanism, and a completion of cycles, fitting the theme of global or universal significance.

Astrological Connections

Aligned with Sagittarius (fire sign, adventurous and optimistic) or Aquarius (innovative and humanitarian), reflecting themes of exploration and global concern in astrology.

Historical Context

The mythological figure Atlas has been referenced in classical literature and has inspired numerous works of art and literature. In Australian literature, the name has been adopted for characters symbolising resilience and guardianship. The name's adoption reflects a wider cultural fascination with exploration and the natural world.

Linguistic Adaptability

The name adapts well into multiple languages, retaining its strong urban and adventurous connotations. It is easily transliterated into scripts like Cyrillic, Katakana, and Latin-based alphabets.

Famous People Named atlas

  • Atlas (the Greek Titan) - mythological figure
  • Atlas (globes brand) - popular in educational settings in Australia
  • Atlas the dog (famous Australian film and TV dog)

Popularity in Australia

Year Count
2024 94
2017 4
2015 1
2013 2