Alex vs Tatum

Baby Name Comparison — 2026

Alex

Boy #205 Most Popular 2 Syllables

Meaning

"defender of men"

Origin: Greek

Cultural Roots

English Greek Spanish Russian French

Quick Stats

Popularity Rank
#205
Total SSA Count
1,722
Syllables
2
Formality
Moderate
Nicknames
Al, Lex

Playground Safety Score

All Clear

Tatum

Boy #195 Most Popular 2 Syllables

Meaning

"cheerful settlement"

Origin: Old English

Cultural Roots

American English

Quick Stats

Popularity Rank
#195
Total SSA Count
1,833
Syllables
2
Formality
Moderate
Nicknames
Tate

Playground Safety Score

All Clear

Popularity Comparison

Alex Rank #205
Tatum Rank #195

Tatum is more popular, ranked #195 vs #205 for Alex.

Popularity Over Time

Historical US popularity rank — lower number means more popular.

Middle Name Pairings

Alex ___

  • Alex James
  • Alex Michael
  • Alex Thomas
  • Alex Ryan
  • Alex John
  • Alex William

Tatum ___

  • Tatum James
  • Tatum Michael
  • Tatum Alexander
  • Tatum Lee
  • Tatum Blake
  • Tatum River

Sibling Name Ideas

Names that pair well as siblings.

If you choose Alex

Ryan Emma Sophie Natalie Jack

If you choose Tatum

Hudson Easton Colton Avery Piper

Which Name Fits Your Family?

Answer 3 quick questions and we'll help you decide.

1. Which style feels more like your family?

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Alex or Tatum more popular?

Tatum is more popular, ranked #195 compared to Alex at #205 in the United States.

What do Alex and Tatum mean?

Alex means "defender of men" (Greek origin). Tatum means "cheerful settlement" (Old English origin).

Are Alex and Tatum boy or girl names?

Alex is primarily a boy name. Tatum is primarily a boy name.

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