Cucuphas

Boy Name
Origin:phoenician
Pronunciation:/ku.kuˈfas/

Cucuphas: a male name of Phoenician origin meaning "This name derives from the Phoenician “Qaqophas,” meaning “he who jokes, he who likes to joke". It derives from the Phoenician word "Qaqophas".

The name Cucuphas carries a rich history rooted in Phoenician culture. Derived from "Qaqophas", this masculine name embodies the essence of This name derives from the Phoenician “Qaqophas,” meaning “he who jokes, he who likes to joke. Its linguistic journey through centuries reflects the cultural values and traditions of Phoenician-speaking communities.

Quick Facts About Cucuphas

Quick facts about Cucuphas
OriginPhoenician
GenderBoy name
PopularityUncommon

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 derives from the Phoenician “Qaqophas,” meaning “he who jokes, he who likes to joke.” Saint Cucuphas is a martyr of Spain. His feast day is July 25, but in some areas, it is celebrated on July 27 to avoid conflict with Santiago’s important feast day, Spain’s patron saint. He is revered in Paris since some of his relics are enshrined at the church of Saint-Denis, in the Chapelle Saint-Cucuphas. Near Rueil-Malmaison, there is a forest named Bois de St-Cucufa and a tiny lake that carries the saint’s name. Veneration in Spain: Concern amongst Catalan devotees of the saint was raised when it was discovered in 2001 that the name of Saint Cucuphas had been removed from the latest version of the Roman Martyrology.

Etymology & Details

Name Root

Qaqophas

How to Pronounce Cucuphas

Cucuphas is pronounced /ku.kuˈfas/(English)

Step-by-step pronunciation guide:

  1. Break it into syllables: Cuc-uphas
  2. Say it like: "CUC-UPHAS"
  3. Practice saying it naturally a few times

Pronunciation verified by linguistic sources

Usage & Popularity

Cucuphas is predominantly used in latin speaking communities, where it maintains strong cultural connections and traditional significance.

latin
Frequently Asked Questions About Cucuphas
What does the name Cucuphas mean?
Cucuphas means "This name derives from the Phoenician “Qaqophas,” meaning “he who jokes, he who likes to joke.” Saint Cucuphas is a martyr of Spain. His feast day is July 25, but in some areas, it is celebrated on July 27 to avoid conflict with Santiago’s important feast day, Spain’s patron saint. He is revered in Paris since some of his relics are enshrined at the church of Saint-Denis, in the Chapelle Saint-Cucuphas. Near Rueil-Malmaison, there is a forest named Bois de St-Cucufa and a tiny lake that carries the saint’s name. Veneration in Spain: Concern amongst Catalan devotees of the saint was raised when it was discovered in 2001 that the name of Saint Cucuphas had been removed from the latest version of the Roman Martyrology.". The name comes from Qaqophas. This phoenician name has been passed down through generations, carrying its meaning across different cultures and time periods. Parents who choose Cucuphas for boys often connect with the name's meaning of "This name derives from the Phoenician “Qaqophas,” meaning “he who jokes, he who likes to joke.” Saint Cucuphas is a martyr of Spain. His feast day is July 25, but in some areas, it is celebrated on July 27 to avoid conflict with Santiago’s important feast day, Spain’s patron saint. He is revered in Paris since some of his relics are enshrined at the church of Saint-Denis, in the Chapelle Saint-Cucuphas. Near Rueil-Malmaison, there is a forest named Bois de St-Cucufa and a tiny lake that carries the saint’s name. Veneration in Spain: Concern amongst Catalan devotees of the saint was raised when it was discovered in 2001 that the name of Saint Cucuphas had been removed from the latest version of the Roman Martyrology." as a quality they hope to see in their child. Cucuphas offers a distinctive option for parents who want a name with clear meaning that stands apart from more common choices.
What is the origin of the name Cucuphas?
Cucuphas is a phoenician name. The name traces back to Qaqophas. The name remains closely tied to latin naming traditions while occasionally appearing in other cultures. The phoenician meaning "This name derives from the Phoenician “Qaqophas,” meaning “he who jokes, he who likes to joke.” Saint Cucuphas is a martyr of Spain. His feast day is July 25, but in some areas, it is celebrated on July 27 to avoid conflict with Santiago’s important feast day, Spain’s patron saint. He is revered in Paris since some of his relics are enshrined at the church of Saint-Denis, in the Chapelle Saint-Cucuphas. Near Rueil-Malmaison, there is a forest named Bois de St-Cucufa and a tiny lake that carries the saint’s name. Veneration in Spain: Concern amongst Catalan devotees of the saint was raised when it was discovered in 2001 that the name of Saint Cucuphas had been removed from the latest version of the Roman Martyrology." reflects values important in the culture where this name first appeared.
Is Cucuphas a boy or girl name?
Cucuphas 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 phoenician tradition, Cucuphas has historically been given to boys. The meaning "This name derives from the Phoenician “Qaqophas,” meaning “he who jokes, he who likes to joke.” Saint Cucuphas is a martyr of Spain. His feast day is July 25, but in some areas, it is celebrated on July 27 to avoid conflict with Santiago’s important feast day, Spain’s patron saint. He is revered in Paris since some of his relics are enshrined at the church of Saint-Denis, in the Chapelle Saint-Cucuphas. Near Rueil-Malmaison, there is a forest named Bois de St-Cucufa and a tiny lake that carries the saint’s name. Veneration in Spain: Concern amongst Catalan devotees of the saint was raised when it was discovered in 2001 that the name of Saint Cucuphas had been removed from the latest version of the Roman Martyrology." carries well for a son, giving the name lasting appeal.
How do you pronounce Cucuphas?
Cucuphas is pronounced "/ku.kuˈfas/". This pronunciation follows en language patterns. As a single-syllable name, Cucuphas is quick to say and easy to call out. If you're unfamiliar with phoenician names, listening to a native speaker say Cucuphas can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis.
How popular is the name Cucuphas?
Cucuphas is less common but not rare. As a less common choice, Cucuphas gives a child a name that stands out. Most people will encounter it rarely, making it memorable when they do. Cucuphas's popularity may vary between phoenician communities and the broader population, where naming trends differ. The name's meaning of "This name derives from the Phoenician “Qaqophas,” meaning “he who jokes, he who likes to joke.” Saint Cucuphas is a martyr of Spain. His feast day is July 25, but in some areas, it is celebrated on July 27 to avoid conflict with Santiago’s important feast day, Spain’s patron saint. He is revered in Paris since some of his relics are enshrined at the church of Saint-Denis, in the Chapelle Saint-Cucuphas. Near Rueil-Malmaison, there is a forest named Bois de St-Cucufa and a tiny lake that carries the saint’s name. Veneration in Spain: Concern amongst Catalan devotees of the saint was raised when it was discovered in 2001 that the name of Saint Cucuphas had been removed from the latest version of the Roman Martyrology." likely influences its appeal, as parents often choose names that express values or hopes for their children. Among boys' names, Cucuphas holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
Where is the name Cucuphas commonly used?
Cucuphas is used primarily in latin naming traditions. Though phoenician in origin, Cucuphas found a home in other cultures where it resonated with local naming preferences. The meaning "This name derives from the Phoenician “Qaqophas,” meaning “he who jokes, he who likes to joke.” Saint Cucuphas is a martyr of Spain. His feast day is July 25, but in some areas, it is celebrated on July 27 to avoid conflict with Santiago’s important feast day, Spain’s patron saint. He is revered in Paris since some of his relics are enshrined at the church of Saint-Denis, in the Chapelle Saint-Cucuphas. Near Rueil-Malmaison, there is a forest named Bois de St-Cucufa and a tiny lake that carries the saint’s name. Veneration in Spain: Concern amongst Catalan devotees of the saint was raised when it was discovered in 2001 that the name of Saint Cucuphas had been removed from the latest version of the Roman Martyrology." carries universal appeal, helping explain why different cultures adopted Cucuphas into their naming traditions. A child named Cucuphas 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, Cucuphas is given to boys, maintaining consistent gender association.

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

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