Cyrus

Boy Name
Pronunciation:/ˈsaɪ.rəs/

Cyrus: a male name of Old Persian origin meaning "This name derives from the Old Persian “Kūrush > Kūruš,” meaning “forward-looking, farsighted, or young". It derives from the Old Persian word "Kūrush > Kūruš".

In Old Persian tradition, Cyrus holds special significance as a masculine name representing This name derives from the Old Persian “Kūrush > Kūruš,” meaning “forward-looking, farsighted, or young. This name has been cherished across generations, carrying with it the wisdom and heritage of Old Persian culture. Its enduring popularity speaks to its universal resonance.

Quick Facts About Cyrus

Quick facts about Cyrus
OriginOld Persian
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 derives from the Old Persian “Kūrush > Kūruš,” meaning “forward-looking, farsighted, or young.” Cyrus II of Persia (Cyrus the Great), was the founder of the Achaemenid Empire. Under his rule, the empire embraced all the previous civilized states of the ancient Near East, expanded vastly, and conquered most of Southwest Asia and much of Central Asia and the Caucasus. From the Mediterranean Sea and Hellespont in the west to the Indus River in the east, Cyrus the Great created the largest empire the world had yet seen. The name is sometimes associated with the Greek term kýrios (κύριος) “Lord,” from which comes Cyril.

Etymology & Details

Name Root

Kūrush > Kūruš

How to Pronounce Cyrus

Cyrus is pronounced /ˈsaɪ.rəs/

Step-by-step pronunciation guide:

  1. Break it into syllables: Cyr-us
  2. Say it like: "CYR-US"
  3. Practice saying it naturally a few times

Pronunciation verified by linguistic sources

Usage & Popularity

Cyrus enjoys international appeal, used in 4 different linguistic and cultural contexts including english, french, dutch, and many others. This widespread adoption reflects its universal resonance.

englishfrenchdutchlatin
Frequently Asked Questions About Cyrus
What does the name Cyrus mean?
Cyrus means "This name derives from the Old Persian “Kūrush > Kūruš,” meaning “forward-looking, farsighted, or young.” Cyrus II of Persia (Cyrus the Great), was the founder of the Achaemenid Empire. Under his rule, the empire embraced all the previous civilized states of the ancient Near East, expanded vastly, and conquered most of Southwest Asia and much of Central Asia and the Caucasus. From the Mediterranean Sea and Hellespont in the west to the Indus River in the east, Cyrus the Great created the largest empire the world had yet seen. The name is sometimes associated with the Greek term kýrios (κύριος) “Lord,” from which comes Cyril.". The name comes from Kūrush > Kūruš. This old persian name has been passed down through generations, carrying its meaning across different cultures and time periods. Parents who choose Cyrus for boys often connect with the name's meaning of "This name derives from the Old Persian “Kūrush > Kūruš,” meaning “forward-looking, farsighted, or young.” Cyrus II of Persia (Cyrus the Great), was the founder of the Achaemenid Empire. Under his rule, the empire embraced all the previous civilized states of the ancient Near East, expanded vastly, and conquered most of Southwest Asia and much of Central Asia and the Caucasus. From the Mediterranean Sea and Hellespont in the west to the Indus River in the east, Cyrus the Great created the largest empire the world had yet seen. The name is sometimes associated with the Greek term kýrios (κύριος) “Lord,” from which comes Cyril." as a quality they hope to see in their child. While not the most common choice, Cyrus's meaningful roots have given it staying power among parents looking for a name with substance.
What is the origin of the name Cyrus?
Cyrus is a old persian name. The name traces back to Kūrush > Kūruš. From its old persian roots, Cyrus spread to become common in english, french, dutch, latin. The old persian meaning "This name derives from the Old Persian “Kūrush > Kūruš,” meaning “forward-looking, farsighted, or young.” Cyrus II of Persia (Cyrus the Great), was the founder of the Achaemenid Empire. Under his rule, the empire embraced all the previous civilized states of the ancient Near East, expanded vastly, and conquered most of Southwest Asia and much of Central Asia and the Caucasus. From the Mediterranean Sea and Hellespont in the west to the Indus River in the east, Cyrus the Great created the largest empire the world had yet seen. The name is sometimes associated with the Greek term kýrios (κύριος) “Lord,” from which comes Cyril." reflects values important in the culture where this name first appeared.
Is Cyrus a boy or girl name?
Cyrus 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 old persian tradition, Cyrus has historically been given to boys. The meaning "This name derives from the Old Persian “Kūrush > Kūruš,” meaning “forward-looking, farsighted, or young.” Cyrus II of Persia (Cyrus the Great), was the founder of the Achaemenid Empire. Under his rule, the empire embraced all the previous civilized states of the ancient Near East, expanded vastly, and conquered most of Southwest Asia and much of Central Asia and the Caucasus. From the Mediterranean Sea and Hellespont in the west to the Indus River in the east, Cyrus the Great created the largest empire the world had yet seen. The name is sometimes associated with the Greek term kýrios (κύριος) “Lord,” from which comes Cyril." carries well for a son, giving the name lasting appeal.
How do you pronounce Cyrus?
Cyrus is pronounced "/ˈsaɪ.rəs/". This pronunciation follows pe language patterns. As a single-syllable name, Cyrus is quick to say and easy to call out. Pronunciation may vary slightly in english, french, dutch, 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 old persian names, listening to a native speaker say Cyrus can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis.
How popular is the name Cyrus?
Cyrus is somewhat common, familiar to most people. With moderate popularity, Cyrus offers familiarity without being everywhere. It's the kind of name people recognize but don't hear every day. Cyrus's popularity may vary between old persian communities and the broader population, where naming trends differ. The name's meaning of "This name derives from the Old Persian “Kūrush > Kūruš,” meaning “forward-looking, farsighted, or young.” Cyrus II of Persia (Cyrus the Great), was the founder of the Achaemenid Empire. Under his rule, the empire embraced all the previous civilized states of the ancient Near East, expanded vastly, and conquered most of Southwest Asia and much of Central Asia and the Caucasus. From the Mediterranean Sea and Hellespont in the west to the Indus River in the east, Cyrus the Great created the largest empire the world had yet seen. The name is sometimes associated with the Greek term kýrios (κύριος) “Lord,” from which comes Cyril." likely influences its appeal, as parents often choose names that express values or hopes for their children. Among boys' names, Cyrus holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
Where is the name Cyrus commonly used?
Cyrus spans multiple cultures, including english, french, dutch, and 1 other traditions. Though old persian in origin, Cyrus found a home in other cultures where it resonated with local naming preferences. Names that work across multiple cultures, like Cyrus, often have straightforward pronunciation and positive meanings that translate well. The meaning "This name derives from the Old Persian “Kūrush > Kūruš,” meaning “forward-looking, farsighted, or young.” Cyrus II of Persia (Cyrus the Great), was the founder of the Achaemenid Empire. Under his rule, the empire embraced all the previous civilized states of the ancient Near East, expanded vastly, and conquered most of Southwest Asia and much of Central Asia and the Caucasus. From the Mediterranean Sea and Hellespont in the west to the Indus River in the east, Cyrus the Great created the largest empire the world had yet seen. The name is sometimes associated with the Greek term kýrios (κύριος) “Lord,” from which comes Cyril." carries universal appeal, helping explain why different cultures adopted Cyrus into their naming traditions. A child named Cyrus 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, Cyrus 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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