Pompey

Boy Name
Origin:latin
Pronunciation:/ˈpɒm.peɪ/

Pompey: a male name of Latin origin meaning "This name derives from the Medieval Latin “Pompēius / Pompĭlĭus,” in turn from Italic (Oscan) “pompe > Pompaios,” meaning “fifth born, from Pompe, five,” corresponding to the Latin Quintus". It derives from the Latin word "pompe > Pompaios > Pompēius / Pompĭlĭus".

Pompey is a masculine name that means "This name derives from the Medieval Latin “Pompēius / Pompĭlĭus,” in turn from Italic (Oscan) “pompe > Pompaios,” meaning “fifth born, from Pompe, five,” corresponding to the Latin Quintus". 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 Pompey

Quick facts about Pompey
OriginLatin, Italic (Oscan)
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 Medieval Latin “Pompēius / Pompĭlĭus,” in turn from Italic (Oscan) “pompe > Pompaios,” meaning “fifth born, from Pompe, five,” corresponding to the Latin Quintus. The gens Pompilia was a plebeian family at Rome during the time of the Republic. The only member of the gens to achieve any prominence in the state was Sextus Pompilius, who was a tribune of the plebs in 420 BC; however, persons by this name are occasionally found throughout the history of the Republic. Numa Pompilius was the legendary second king of Rome, succeeding Romulus. He was of Sabine origin, and many of Rome’s most important religious and political institutions are attributed to him. Pompilio Maria Pirrotti was an Italian priest and monk. He is venerated as a saint by the Catholic Church.

Etymology & Details

Name Root

pompe > Pompaios > Pompēius / Pompĭlĭus

Other Scripts

Russian (Помпей)

How to Pronounce Pompey

Pompey is pronounced /ˈpɒm.peɪ/(Latin)

Step-by-step pronunciation guide:

  1. Break it into syllables: Pom-pey
  2. Say it like: "POM-PEY"
  3. Practice saying it naturally a few times

Pronunciation verified by linguistic sources

Usage & Popularity

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

russian
Frequently Asked Questions About Pompey
What does the name Pompey mean?
Pompey means "This name derives from the Medieval Latin “Pompēius / Pompĭlĭus,” in turn from Italic (Oscan) “pompe > Pompaios,” meaning “fifth born, from Pompe, five,” corresponding to the Latin Quintus. The gens Pompilia was a plebeian family at Rome during the time of the Republic. The only member of the gens to achieve any prominence in the state was Sextus Pompilius, who was a tribune of the plebs in 420 BC; however, persons by this name are occasionally found throughout the history of the Republic. Numa Pompilius was the legendary second king of Rome, succeeding Romulus. He was of Sabine origin, and many of Rome’s most important religious and political institutions are attributed to him. Pompilio Maria Pirrotti was an Italian priest and monk. He is venerated as a saint by the Catholic Church.". The name comes from pompe > Pompaios > Pompēius / Pompĭlĭus. This latin name has been passed down through generations, carrying its meaning across different cultures and time periods. Parents who choose Pompey for boys often connect with the name's meaning of "This name derives from the Medieval Latin “Pompēius / Pompĭlĭus,” in turn from Italic (Oscan) “pompe > Pompaios,” meaning “fifth born, from Pompe, five,” corresponding to the Latin Quintus. The gens Pompilia was a plebeian family at Rome during the time of the Republic. The only member of the gens to achieve any prominence in the state was Sextus Pompilius, who was a tribune of the plebs in 420 BC; however, persons by this name are occasionally found throughout the history of the Republic. Numa Pompilius was the legendary second king of Rome, succeeding Romulus. He was of Sabine origin, and many of Rome’s most important religious and political institutions are attributed to him. Pompilio Maria Pirrotti was an Italian priest and monk. He is venerated as a saint by the Catholic Church." as a quality they hope to see in their child. While not the most common choice, Pompey's meaningful roots have given it staying power among parents looking for a name with substance. The name is associated with qualities like NUMBERS (5 OR FIFTH), reflecting its meaning in how people perceive those who carry it.
What is the origin of the name Pompey?
Pompey has latin and italic (oscan) origins. The name traces back to pompe > Pompaios > Pompēius / Pompĭlĭus. In its native script, Pompey is written as Russian (Помпей). The name remains closely tied to russian naming traditions while occasionally appearing in other cultures. The latin meaning "This name derives from the Medieval Latin “Pompēius / Pompĭlĭus,” in turn from Italic (Oscan) “pompe > Pompaios,” meaning “fifth born, from Pompe, five,” corresponding to the Latin Quintus. The gens Pompilia was a plebeian family at Rome during the time of the Republic. The only member of the gens to achieve any prominence in the state was Sextus Pompilius, who was a tribune of the plebs in 420 BC; however, persons by this name are occasionally found throughout the history of the Republic. Numa Pompilius was the legendary second king of Rome, succeeding Romulus. He was of Sabine origin, and many of Rome’s most important religious and political institutions are attributed to him. Pompilio Maria Pirrotti was an Italian priest and monk. He is venerated as a saint by the Catholic Church." reflects values important in the culture where this name first appeared.
Is Pompey a boy or girl name?
Pompey 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, Pompey has historically been given to boys. The meaning "This name derives from the Medieval Latin “Pompēius / Pompĭlĭus,” in turn from Italic (Oscan) “pompe > Pompaios,” meaning “fifth born, from Pompe, five,” corresponding to the Latin Quintus. The gens Pompilia was a plebeian family at Rome during the time of the Republic. The only member of the gens to achieve any prominence in the state was Sextus Pompilius, who was a tribune of the plebs in 420 BC; however, persons by this name are occasionally found throughout the history of the Republic. Numa Pompilius was the legendary second king of Rome, succeeding Romulus. He was of Sabine origin, and many of Rome’s most important religious and political institutions are attributed to him. Pompilio Maria Pirrotti was an Italian priest and monk. He is venerated as a saint by the Catholic Church." carries well for a son, giving the name lasting appeal.
How do you pronounce Pompey?
Pompey is pronounced "/ˈpɒm.peɪ/". This pronunciation follows la language patterns. In its original script, the name appears as Russian (Помпей), which helps explain how native speakers pronounce it. As a single-syllable name, Pompey is quick to say and easy to call out. If you're unfamiliar with latin names, listening to a native speaker say Pompey can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis.
How popular is the name Pompey?
Pompey is somewhat common, familiar to most people. With moderate popularity, Pompey offers familiarity without being everywhere. It's the kind of name people recognize but don't hear every day. Pompey's popularity may vary between latin communities and the broader population, where naming trends differ. The name's meaning of "This name derives from the Medieval Latin “Pompēius / Pompĭlĭus,” in turn from Italic (Oscan) “pompe > Pompaios,” meaning “fifth born, from Pompe, five,” corresponding to the Latin Quintus. The gens Pompilia was a plebeian family at Rome during the time of the Republic. The only member of the gens to achieve any prominence in the state was Sextus Pompilius, who was a tribune of the plebs in 420 BC; however, persons by this name are occasionally found throughout the history of the Republic. Numa Pompilius was the legendary second king of Rome, succeeding Romulus. He was of Sabine origin, and many of Rome’s most important religious and political institutions are attributed to him. Pompilio Maria Pirrotti was an Italian priest and monk. He is venerated as a saint by the Catholic Church." likely influences its appeal, as parents often choose names that express values or hopes for their children. Among boys' names, Pompey holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
Where is the name Pompey commonly used?
Pompey is used primarily in russian naming traditions. Though latin in origin, Pompey found a home in other cultures where it resonated with local naming preferences. The meaning "This name derives from the Medieval Latin “Pompēius / Pompĭlĭus,” in turn from Italic (Oscan) “pompe > Pompaios,” meaning “fifth born, from Pompe, five,” corresponding to the Latin Quintus. The gens Pompilia was a plebeian family at Rome during the time of the Republic. The only member of the gens to achieve any prominence in the state was Sextus Pompilius, who was a tribune of the plebs in 420 BC; however, persons by this name are occasionally found throughout the history of the Republic. Numa Pompilius was the legendary second king of Rome, succeeding Romulus. He was of Sabine origin, and many of Rome’s most important religious and political institutions are attributed to him. Pompilio Maria Pirrotti was an Italian priest and monk. He is venerated as a saint by the Catholic Church." carries universal appeal, helping explain why different cultures adopted Pompey into their naming traditions. A child named Pompey 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, Pompey is given to boys, maintaining consistent gender association.
What is the cultural significance of Pompey?
Pompey carries associations with NUMBERS (5 OR FIFTH). 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 derives from the Medieval Latin “Pompēius / Pompĭlĭus,” in turn from Italic (Oscan) “pompe > Pompaios,” meaning “fifth born, from Pompe, five,” corresponding to the Latin Quintus. The gens Pompilia was a plebeian family at Rome during the time of the Republic. The only member of the gens to achieve any prominence in the state was Sextus Pompilius, who was a tribune of the plebs in 420 BC; however, persons by this name are occasionally found throughout the history of the Republic. Numa Pompilius was the legendary second king of Rome, succeeding Romulus. He was of Sabine origin, and many of Rome’s most important religious and political institutions are attributed to him. Pompilio Maria Pirrotti was an Italian priest and monk. He is venerated as a saint by the Catholic Church." reinforces these associations, connecting the literal translation to the character traits people expect. In latin culture, where Pompey 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 Pompey sets certain expectations. Parents choosing Pompey often connect with one or more of these associations, selecting the name because it represents qualities they value or wish for their child. In russian 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.

Similar Names

Explore More Names

Explore by Meaning