Do atheists really need a label?

Language and identity-specific words are something we use, not necessarily to differentiate between 'default' and 'other' positions. Rather, they're something we use to make clear a specific object, person, or objects or groups of people. The only thing denoted by referring to atheists, is the definition of the word atheist which refers to a specific characteristic that is common among atheists. People may mistakenly assume additional connotations to the word. But using the word atheist, or any other word, to point out or describe a specific thing, group, or characteristic, is not wrong or unnecessary, regardless of whichever characteristic is perceived as being default. It would be a step backward in language to discontinue use of words that accurately describe and help to clarify concepts that people wish to refer to.