August

Boy Name
Origin:latin
Pronunciation:/ɔːˈɡʌst/

August: a male name of Latin origin meaning "This name comes from the Latin superlative “Augustus” (sacred, holy, august, majestic, sublime, venerable, solemn) from “augĕo > augēre” (increase, develop, enlarge, strengthen, enhance)". It derives from the Latin word "augĕo > augēre > Augustus".

August is a masculine name that means "This name comes from the Latin superlative “Augustus” (sacred, holy, august, majestic, sublime, venerable, solemn) from “augĕo > augēre” (increase, develop, enlarge, strengthen, enhance)". Its Latin origins reflect deep cultural values and traditions that have been passed down through generations. Parents choosing this name often appreciate its profound significance and timeless appeal.

Quick Facts About August

Quick facts about August
OriginLatin
GenderBoy name
PopularityModerately popular

Researched by Name Doctor Linguistics Team

Our names are verified by professional linguists with expertise in etymology and cultural naming traditions.

Last reviewed: November 2025

Meaning

This name comes from the Latin superlative “Augustus” (sacred, holy, august, majestic, sublime, venerable, solemn) from “augĕo > augēre” (increase, develop, enlarge, strengthen, enhance). Augustus (Latin: Imperator Caesar Divi F. Augustus) was the founder of the Roman Empire and its first Emperor, ruling from 27 BC until he died in 14 AD). St. Augoustinos was bishop of Hippo Regius (present-day Annaba, Algeria). He was a Latin philosopher and theologian from the Africa Province of the Roman Empire and is generally considered as one of the greatest Christian thinkers of all time. Auguste Ferdinande of Austria, Princess of Bavaria (1825–1864), was the daughter of Leopold II, Grand Duke of Tuscany, and his first wife, Maria Anna of Saxony, and the wife of Luitpold, Prince Regent of Bavaria. Princess Augusta of Hesse-Kassel (1797–1889) was the wife of Prince Adolphus, Duke of Cambridge, the tenth-born child, and seventh son of George III of the United Kingdom and Charlotte of Mecklenburg-Strelitz.

Etymology & Details

Name Root

augĕo > augēre > Augustus

How to Pronounce August

August is pronounced /ɔːˈɡʌst/(English)

Step-by-step pronunciation guide:

  1. Break it into syllables: Aug-ust
  2. Say it like: "AUG-UST"
  3. Practice saying it naturally a few times

Pronunciation verified by linguistic sources

Usage & Popularity

August enjoys international appeal, used in 12 different linguistic and cultural contexts including english, catalan, norwegian, and many others. This widespread adoption reflects its universal resonance.

englishcatalannorwegianswedishdanishfaroesefinnishpolishczechestoniandutchgerman
Name Relationships

August is a variant form of Augustus, developed through regional pronunciation differences and linguistic evolution. This variation preserves the essential meaning while offering a unique sound.

Frequently Asked Questions About August
What does the name August mean?
August means "This name comes from the Latin superlative “Augustus” (sacred, holy, august, majestic, sublime, venerable, solemn) from “augĕo > augēre” (increase, develop, enlarge, strengthen, enhance). Augustus (Latin: Imperator Caesar Divi F. Augustus) was the founder of the Roman Empire and its first Emperor, ruling from 27 BC until he died in 14 AD). St. Augoustinos was bishop of Hippo Regius (present-day Annaba, Algeria). He was a Latin philosopher and theologian from the Africa Province of the Roman Empire and is generally considered as one of the greatest Christian thinkers of all time. Auguste Ferdinande of Austria, Princess of Bavaria (1825–1864), was the daughter of Leopold II, Grand Duke of Tuscany, and his first wife, Maria Anna of Saxony, and the wife of Luitpold, Prince Regent of Bavaria. Princess Augusta of Hesse-Kassel (1797–1889) was the wife of Prince Adolphus, Duke of Cambridge, the tenth-born child, and seventh son of George III of the United Kingdom and Charlotte of Mecklenburg-Strelitz.". The name comes from augĕo > augēre > Augustus. This latin name has been passed down through generations, carrying its meaning across different cultures and time periods. Parents who choose August for boys often connect with the name's meaning of "This name comes from the Latin superlative “Augustus” (sacred, holy, august, majestic, sublime, venerable, solemn) from “augĕo > augēre” (increase, develop, enlarge, strengthen, enhance). Augustus (Latin: Imperator Caesar Divi F. Augustus) was the founder of the Roman Empire and its first Emperor, ruling from 27 BC until he died in 14 AD). St. Augoustinos was bishop of Hippo Regius (present-day Annaba, Algeria). He was a Latin philosopher and theologian from the Africa Province of the Roman Empire and is generally considered as one of the greatest Christian thinkers of all time. Auguste Ferdinande of Austria, Princess of Bavaria (1825–1864), was the daughter of Leopold II, Grand Duke of Tuscany, and his first wife, Maria Anna of Saxony, and the wife of Luitpold, Prince Regent of Bavaria. Princess Augusta of Hesse-Kassel (1797–1889) was the wife of Prince Adolphus, Duke of Cambridge, the tenth-born child, and seventh son of George III of the United Kingdom and Charlotte of Mecklenburg-Strelitz." as a quality they hope to see in their child. While not the most common choice, August's meaningful roots have given it staying power among parents looking for a name with substance. The name is associated with qualities like JULIAN CALENDAR MONTHS (SEXTILIS-AUGUSTUS / AUGUST) / RELIGION (BISHOPS), reflecting its meaning in how people perceive those who carry it.
What is the origin of the name August?
August is a latin name. The name traces back to augĕo > augēre > Augustus. From its latin roots, August spread to become common in english, catalan, norwegian, swedish and other cultures. The latin meaning "This name comes from the Latin superlative “Augustus” (sacred, holy, august, majestic, sublime, venerable, solemn) from “augĕo > augēre” (increase, develop, enlarge, strengthen, enhance). Augustus (Latin: Imperator Caesar Divi F. Augustus) was the founder of the Roman Empire and its first Emperor, ruling from 27 BC until he died in 14 AD). St. Augoustinos was bishop of Hippo Regius (present-day Annaba, Algeria). He was a Latin philosopher and theologian from the Africa Province of the Roman Empire and is generally considered as one of the greatest Christian thinkers of all time. Auguste Ferdinande of Austria, Princess of Bavaria (1825–1864), was the daughter of Leopold II, Grand Duke of Tuscany, and his first wife, Maria Anna of Saxony, and the wife of Luitpold, Prince Regent of Bavaria. Princess Augusta of Hesse-Kassel (1797–1889) was the wife of Prince Adolphus, Duke of Cambridge, the tenth-born child, and seventh son of George III of the United Kingdom and Charlotte of Mecklenburg-Strelitz." reflects values important in the culture where this name first appeared. August developed as a form of Augustus, adapting over time while keeping its connection to the original name.
Is August a boy or girl name?
August is a boy's name. The name has been used for boys across many generations, maintaining its masculine character through different eras and cultures. In latin tradition, August has historically been given to boys. The meaning "This name comes from the Latin superlative “Augustus” (sacred, holy, august, majestic, sublime, venerable, solemn) from “augĕo > augēre” (increase, develop, enlarge, strengthen, enhance). Augustus (Latin: Imperator Caesar Divi F. Augustus) was the founder of the Roman Empire and its first Emperor, ruling from 27 BC until he died in 14 AD). St. Augoustinos was bishop of Hippo Regius (present-day Annaba, Algeria). He was a Latin philosopher and theologian from the Africa Province of the Roman Empire and is generally considered as one of the greatest Christian thinkers of all time. Auguste Ferdinande of Austria, Princess of Bavaria (1825–1864), was the daughter of Leopold II, Grand Duke of Tuscany, and his first wife, Maria Anna of Saxony, and the wife of Luitpold, Prince Regent of Bavaria. Princess Augusta of Hesse-Kassel (1797–1889) was the wife of Prince Adolphus, Duke of Cambridge, the tenth-born child, and seventh son of George III of the United Kingdom and Charlotte of Mecklenburg-Strelitz." carries well for a son, giving the name lasting appeal.
How do you pronounce August?
August is pronounced "/ɔːˈɡʌst/". This pronunciation follows en language patterns. As a single-syllable name, August is quick to say and easy to call out. Pronunciation may vary slightly in english, catalan, norwegian, where the name is also used. Local accents and language rules can shift certain sounds while keeping the name recognizable. If you're unfamiliar with latin names, listening to a native speaker say August can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis.
How popular is the name August?
August is somewhat common, familiar to most people. With moderate popularity, August offers familiarity without being everywhere. It's the kind of name people recognize but don't hear every day. August's popularity may vary between latin communities and the broader population, where naming trends differ. The name's meaning of "This name comes from the Latin superlative “Augustus” (sacred, holy, august, majestic, sublime, venerable, solemn) from “augĕo > augēre” (increase, develop, enlarge, strengthen, enhance). Augustus (Latin: Imperator Caesar Divi F. Augustus) was the founder of the Roman Empire and its first Emperor, ruling from 27 BC until he died in 14 AD). St. Augoustinos was bishop of Hippo Regius (present-day Annaba, Algeria). He was a Latin philosopher and theologian from the Africa Province of the Roman Empire and is generally considered as one of the greatest Christian thinkers of all time. Auguste Ferdinande of Austria, Princess of Bavaria (1825–1864), was the daughter of Leopold II, Grand Duke of Tuscany, and his first wife, Maria Anna of Saxony, and the wife of Luitpold, Prince Regent of Bavaria. Princess Augusta of Hesse-Kassel (1797–1889) was the wife of Prince Adolphus, Duke of Cambridge, the tenth-born child, and seventh son of George III of the United Kingdom and Charlotte of Mecklenburg-Strelitz." likely influences its appeal, as parents often choose names that express values or hopes for their children. Among boys' names, August holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
What are variations of the name August?
August is a form of Augustus. Over time, Augustus developed into several variations, with August emerging as a distinct form used in certain regions or languages. In latin tradition, these variations allow the core name to work across different contexts while maintaining its character. All variations preserve the meaning "This name comes from the Latin superlative “Augustus” (sacred, holy, august, majestic, sublime, venerable, solemn) from “augĕo > augēre” (increase, develop, enlarge, strengthen, enhance). Augustus (Latin: Imperator Caesar Divi F. Augustus) was the founder of the Roman Empire and its first Emperor, ruling from 27 BC until he died in 14 AD). St. Augoustinos was bishop of Hippo Regius (present-day Annaba, Algeria). He was a Latin philosopher and theologian from the Africa Province of the Roman Empire and is generally considered as one of the greatest Christian thinkers of all time. Auguste Ferdinande of Austria, Princess of Bavaria (1825–1864), was the daughter of Leopold II, Grand Duke of Tuscany, and his first wife, Maria Anna of Saxony, and the wife of Luitpold, Prince Regent of Bavaria. Princess Augusta of Hesse-Kassel (1797–1889) was the wife of Prince Adolphus, Duke of Cambridge, the tenth-born child, and seventh son of George III of the United Kingdom and Charlotte of Mecklenburg-Strelitz.", so choosing between them comes down to sound preference and cultural fit rather than different meanings. Parents drawn to August might also consider these related forms, especially if they want options for siblings or prefer a more traditional or modern feel. In english and catalan, August may be more or less common than its variations, depending on local naming customs.
Where is the name August commonly used?
August spans multiple cultures, including english, catalan, norwegian, and 9 other traditions. Though latin in origin, August found a home in other cultures where it resonated with local naming preferences. Names that work across multiple cultures, like August, often have straightforward pronunciation and positive meanings that translate well. The meaning "This name comes from the Latin superlative “Augustus” (sacred, holy, august, majestic, sublime, venerable, solemn) from “augĕo > augēre” (increase, develop, enlarge, strengthen, enhance). Augustus (Latin: Imperator Caesar Divi F. Augustus) was the founder of the Roman Empire and its first Emperor, ruling from 27 BC until he died in 14 AD). St. Augoustinos was bishop of Hippo Regius (present-day Annaba, Algeria). He was a Latin philosopher and theologian from the Africa Province of the Roman Empire and is generally considered as one of the greatest Christian thinkers of all time. Auguste Ferdinande of Austria, Princess of Bavaria (1825–1864), was the daughter of Leopold II, Grand Duke of Tuscany, and his first wife, Maria Anna of Saxony, and the wife of Luitpold, Prince Regent of Bavaria. Princess Augusta of Hesse-Kassel (1797–1889) was the wife of Prince Adolphus, Duke of Cambridge, the tenth-born child, and seventh son of George III of the United Kingdom and Charlotte of Mecklenburg-Strelitz." carries universal appeal, helping explain why different cultures adopted August into their naming traditions. A child named August will likely find their name recognized in multiple countries, which can be an advantage for families with international connections or who value global accessibility. Across these cultures, August is given to boys, maintaining consistent gender association.
What is the cultural significance of August?
August carries associations with JULIAN CALENDAR MONTHS (SEXTILIS-AUGUSTUS / AUGUST) / RELIGION (BISHOPS). These qualities shape how people perceive the name and those who carry it, creating expectations and first impressions. The name's meaning of "This name comes from the Latin superlative “Augustus” (sacred, holy, august, majestic, sublime, venerable, solemn) from “augĕo > augēre” (increase, develop, enlarge, strengthen, enhance). Augustus (Latin: Imperator Caesar Divi F. Augustus) was the founder of the Roman Empire and its first Emperor, ruling from 27 BC until he died in 14 AD). St. Augoustinos was bishop of Hippo Regius (present-day Annaba, Algeria). He was a Latin philosopher and theologian from the Africa Province of the Roman Empire and is generally considered as one of the greatest Christian thinkers of all time. Auguste Ferdinande of Austria, Princess of Bavaria (1825–1864), was the daughter of Leopold II, Grand Duke of Tuscany, and his first wife, Maria Anna of Saxony, and the wife of Luitpold, Prince Regent of Bavaria. Princess Augusta of Hesse-Kassel (1797–1889) was the wife of Prince Adolphus, Duke of Cambridge, the tenth-born child, and seventh son of George III of the United Kingdom and Charlotte of Mecklenburg-Strelitz." reinforces these associations, connecting the literal translation to the character traits people expect. In latin culture, where August originates, these qualities held particular value, making the name a way to express hopes for a child's character. Research shows that names do influence perceptions. People form impressions based on names before meeting someone, which means choosing August sets certain expectations. Parents choosing August often connect with one or more of these associations, selecting the name because it represents qualities they value or wish for their child. In english communities, these associations may carry extra weight, as naming traditions often reinforce cultural values.

Sources: Etymology verified through linguistic research including Oxford Dictionary of First Names, Behind the Name, and academic etymology databases.

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