Tarcisius: a male name of Latin origin meaning "This name derives from the Latin “Tarsicius,” meaning “of Tarsus, from Tarsus".It derives from the Latin word "tarku > Tarsós > TARSICIUS".
Tarcisius is a masculine name that means "This name derives from the Latin “Tarsicius,” meaning “of Tarsus, from Tarsus". 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 Tarcisius
Quick facts about Tarcisius
Origin
Latin, Greek, Anatolian (Hittites)
Gender
Boy name
Popularity
Uncommon
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 Latin “Tarsicius,” meaning “of Tarsus, from Tarsus.” Tarsus derives from the Ancient Greek “tarsós (ταρσός),” which in turn derives from the Hittite hammer god “Tarku.” Tarsus is a historic city in south-central Turkey, 20 km inland from the Mediterranean Sea. It is part of the Adana-Mersin Metropolitan Area, the fourth-largest metropolitan area in Turkey. St. Tarcisius, a martyr of the early Christian church who lived in the 3rd-century. The little that is known about him comes from a metrical inscription by Pope Damasus I, who was pope at least a century later.
Etymology & Details
Name Root
tarku > Tarsós > TARSICIUS
How to Pronounce Tarcisius
Tarcisius is pronounced /tɑːrˈsiː.si.əs/
Step-by-step pronunciation guide:
Break it into syllables: Tarcis-ius
Say it like: "TARCIS-IUS"
Practice saying it naturally a few times
Usage & Popularity
Tarcisius is predominantly used in latin speaking communities, where it maintains strong cultural connections and traditional significance.
latin
Frequently Asked Questions About Tarcisius
What does the name Tarcisius mean?
Tarcisius means "This name derives from the Latin “Tarsicius,” meaning “of Tarsus, from Tarsus.” Tarsus derives from the Ancient Greek “tarsós (ταρσός),” which in turn derives from the Hittite hammer god “Tarku.” Tarsus is a historic city in south-central Turkey, 20 km inland from the Mediterranean Sea. It is part of the Adana-Mersin Metropolitan Area, the fourth-largest metropolitan area in Turkey. St. Tarcisius, a martyr of the early Christian church who lived in the 3rd-century. The little that is known about him comes from a metrical inscription by Pope Damasus I, who was pope at least a century later.". The name comes from tarku > Tarsós > TARSICIUS. In its original form, the name derives from Tarsós (Ταρσός). This latin name has been passed down through generations, carrying its meaning across different cultures and time periods. Parents who choose Tarcisius for boys often connect with the name's meaning of "This name derives from the Latin “Tarsicius,” meaning “of Tarsus, from Tarsus.” Tarsus derives from the Ancient Greek “tarsós (ταρσός),” which in turn derives from the Hittite hammer god “Tarku.” Tarsus is a historic city in south-central Turkey, 20 km inland from the Mediterranean Sea. It is part of the Adana-Mersin Metropolitan Area, the fourth-largest metropolitan area in Turkey. St. Tarcisius, a martyr of the early Christian church who lived in the 3rd-century. The little that is known about him comes from a metrical inscription by Pope Damasus I, who was pope at least a century later." as a quality they hope to see in their child. Tarcisius offers a distinctive option for parents who want a name with clear meaning that stands apart from more common choices. The name is associated with qualities like HITTITE-HURRIAN MYTHOLOGY, reflecting its meaning in how people perceive those who carry it.
What is the origin of the name Tarcisius?
Tarcisius has latin and greek and anatolian (hittites) origins. The name traces back to tarku > Tarsós > TARSICIUS. The original form Tarsós (Ταρσός) shows the name's roots in its native language. The name remains closely tied to latin naming traditions while occasionally appearing in other cultures. The latin meaning "This name derives from the Latin “Tarsicius,” meaning “of Tarsus, from Tarsus.” Tarsus derives from the Ancient Greek “tarsós (ταρσός),” which in turn derives from the Hittite hammer god “Tarku.” Tarsus is a historic city in south-central Turkey, 20 km inland from the Mediterranean Sea. It is part of the Adana-Mersin Metropolitan Area, the fourth-largest metropolitan area in Turkey. St. Tarcisius, a martyr of the early Christian church who lived in the 3rd-century. The little that is known about him comes from a metrical inscription by Pope Damasus I, who was pope at least a century later." reflects values important in the culture where this name first appeared.
Is Tarcisius a boy or girl name?
Tarcisius 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, Tarcisius has historically been given to boys. The meaning "This name derives from the Latin “Tarsicius,” meaning “of Tarsus, from Tarsus.” Tarsus derives from the Ancient Greek “tarsós (ταρσός),” which in turn derives from the Hittite hammer god “Tarku.” Tarsus is a historic city in south-central Turkey, 20 km inland from the Mediterranean Sea. It is part of the Adana-Mersin Metropolitan Area, the fourth-largest metropolitan area in Turkey. St. Tarcisius, a martyr of the early Christian church who lived in the 3rd-century. The little that is known about him comes from a metrical inscription by Pope Damasus I, who was pope at least a century later." carries well for a son, giving the name lasting appeal.
How do you pronounce Tarcisius?
Tarcisius is pronounced "/tɑːrˈsiː.si.əs/". This pronunciation follows tr language patterns. As a single-syllable name, Tarcisius is quick to say and easy to call out. If you're unfamiliar with latin names, listening to a native speaker say Tarcisius can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis. The name's root tarku > Tarsós > TARSICIUS influences how Tarcisius sounds in its original language.
How popular is the name Tarcisius?
Tarcisius is less common but not rare. As a less common choice, Tarcisius gives a child a name that stands out. Most people will encounter it rarely, making it memorable when they do. Tarcisius'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 Latin “Tarsicius,” meaning “of Tarsus, from Tarsus.” Tarsus derives from the Ancient Greek “tarsós (ταρσός),” which in turn derives from the Hittite hammer god “Tarku.” Tarsus is a historic city in south-central Turkey, 20 km inland from the Mediterranean Sea. It is part of the Adana-Mersin Metropolitan Area, the fourth-largest metropolitan area in Turkey. St. Tarcisius, a martyr of the early Christian church who lived in the 3rd-century. The little that is known about him comes from a metrical inscription by Pope Damasus I, who was pope at least a century later." likely influences its appeal, as parents often choose names that express values or hopes for their children. Among boys' names, Tarcisius holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
Where is the name Tarcisius commonly used?
Tarcisius is used primarily in latin naming traditions. The name originated in latin culture and spread as people migrated and cultures exchanged ideas. The meaning "This name derives from the Latin “Tarsicius,” meaning “of Tarsus, from Tarsus.” Tarsus derives from the Ancient Greek “tarsós (ταρσός),” which in turn derives from the Hittite hammer god “Tarku.” Tarsus is a historic city in south-central Turkey, 20 km inland from the Mediterranean Sea. It is part of the Adana-Mersin Metropolitan Area, the fourth-largest metropolitan area in Turkey. St. Tarcisius, a martyr of the early Christian church who lived in the 3rd-century. The little that is known about him comes from a metrical inscription by Pope Damasus I, who was pope at least a century later." carries universal appeal, helping explain why different cultures adopted Tarcisius into their naming traditions. A child named Tarcisius 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, Tarcisius is given to boys, maintaining consistent gender association.
What is the cultural significance of Tarcisius?
Tarcisius carries associations with HITTITE-HURRIAN MYTHOLOGY. 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 Latin “Tarsicius,” meaning “of Tarsus, from Tarsus.” Tarsus derives from the Ancient Greek “tarsós (ταρσός),” which in turn derives from the Hittite hammer god “Tarku.” Tarsus is a historic city in south-central Turkey, 20 km inland from the Mediterranean Sea. It is part of the Adana-Mersin Metropolitan Area, the fourth-largest metropolitan area in Turkey. St. Tarcisius, a martyr of the early Christian church who lived in the 3rd-century. The little that is known about him comes from a metrical inscription by Pope Damasus I, who was pope at least a century later." reinforces these associations, connecting the literal translation to the character traits people expect. In latin culture, where Tarcisius 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 Tarcisius sets certain expectations. Parents choosing Tarcisius often connect with one or more of these associations, selecting the name because it represents qualities they value or wish for their child. In latin 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.