Tan

What does the baby name Tan mean? Learn about what Tan means, its history & origin, popularity in our random name database, pronunciation, similar names, nicknames & spelling variations.

Tan - Name Meaning, Origin & Popularity

Spelling of Tan: T-A-N, is a 3-letter male given name.
Meaning of Tan: New.
Origin of Tan: The name 'Tan' has multiple origins and can be found in various cultures around the world. In Chinese, 'Tan' is a surname that originated from the ancient state of Tan during the Zhou Dynasty. It is believed to have derived from the name of a place or a clan. In Malay and Indonesian cultures, 'Tan' is a common given name and surname, often derived from Chinese origins.; Vietnamese Names
Similar Names, Nicknames, & Spelling Variations of Tan: Tanner; Tanney
Popularity of Tan: The popularity of the name 'Tan' varies depending on the cultural context. As a Chinese surname, 'Tan' is relatively common among Chinese communities worldwide. It ranks among the top 100 surnames in China and is also prevalent in countries with significant Chinese populations, such as Singapore, Malaysia, and Indonesia.

As a given name, 'Tan' may not be as common as a surname. In some cultures, it may be used as a middle name or combined with another given name to form a full name.; Tan currently has no likes. Be the first to like this name.

Etymology of Tan

The etymology of the name 'Tan' differs depending on its cultural origin. In Chinese, 'Tan' is written as 谭 (tán) or 檀 (tán) and can have various meanings depending on the specific Chinese characters used. These meanings may include 'red sandalwood', 'altar', 'talkative', or 'humble'.

In Malay and Indonesian, 'Tan' is often derived from Chinese origins and may have similar meanings to the Chinese etymology.

Cultural Significance of Tan

The cultural significance of the name 'Tan' varies across different cultures. In Chinese culture, surnames hold great importance as they represent one's family lineage and heritage. The surname 'Tan' is associated with a sense of identity and belonging within the Chinese community.

In Malay and Indonesian cultures, 'Tan' may be seen as a reflection of the multicultural nature of these societies, where individuals with Chinese ancestry contribute to the diverse fabric of the nation.