Ursus: a male name of Latin origin meaning "This name derives from the Latin “ursus,” meaning “bear".It derives from the Latin word "URSUS".
The name Ursus carries a rich history rooted in Latin culture. Derived from "URSUS", this masculine name embodies the essence of This name derives from the Latin “ursus,” meaning “bear. Its linguistic journey through centuries reflects the cultural values and traditions of Latin-speaking communities.
Quick Facts About Ursus
Quick facts about Ursus
Origin
Latin
Gender
Boy name
Popularity
Moderately 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 Latin “ursus,” meaning “bear.” 1) Saint Ursicinus is venerated as a martyr by the Catholic Church. He was said to be a physician of Ravenna. His legend is connected with Saint Vitalis, who is said to have encouraged the vacillating Ursicinus after the doctor was sentenced to death for his faith 2) Ursus is a 6th-century Italian saint. His feast day is February 1 (June 17 in some areas). The collegiate church of Saint Ursus in Aosta is dedicated to him.
Etymology & Details
Name Root
URSUS
How to Pronounce Ursus
Ursus is pronounced /ˈɜːr.səs/(English)
Step-by-step pronunciation guide:
Break it into syllables: Urs-us
Say it like: "URS-US"
Practice saying it naturally a few times
✓Pronunciation verified by linguistic sources
Usage & Popularity
This name has found popularity across polish, and latin speaking regions, demonstrating its cross-cultural appeal and adaptability.
polishlatin
Frequently Asked Questions About Ursus
What does the name Ursus mean?
Ursus means "This name derives from the Latin “ursus,” meaning “bear.” 1) Saint Ursicinus is venerated as a martyr by the Catholic Church. He was said to be a physician of Ravenna. His legend is connected with Saint Vitalis, who is said to have encouraged the vacillating Ursicinus after the doctor was sentenced to death for his faith 2) Ursus is a 6th-century Italian saint. His feast day is February 1 (June 17 in some areas). The collegiate church of Saint Ursus in Aosta is dedicated to him.". The name comes from URSUS. This latin name has been passed down through generations, carrying its meaning across different cultures and time periods. Parents who choose Ursus for boys often connect with the name's meaning of "This name derives from the Latin “ursus,” meaning “bear.” 1) Saint Ursicinus is venerated as a martyr by the Catholic Church. He was said to be a physician of Ravenna. His legend is connected with Saint Vitalis, who is said to have encouraged the vacillating Ursicinus after the doctor was sentenced to death for his faith 2) Ursus is a 6th-century Italian saint. His feast day is February 1 (June 17 in some areas). The collegiate church of Saint Ursus in Aosta is dedicated to him." as a quality they hope to see in their child. While not the most common choice, Ursus's meaningful roots have given it staying power among parents looking for a name with substance.
What is the origin of the name Ursus?
Ursus is a latin name. The name traces back to URSUS. From its latin roots, Ursus spread to become common in polish, latin. The latin meaning "This name derives from the Latin “ursus,” meaning “bear.” 1) Saint Ursicinus is venerated as a martyr by the Catholic Church. He was said to be a physician of Ravenna. His legend is connected with Saint Vitalis, who is said to have encouraged the vacillating Ursicinus after the doctor was sentenced to death for his faith 2) Ursus is a 6th-century Italian saint. His feast day is February 1 (June 17 in some areas). The collegiate church of Saint Ursus in Aosta is dedicated to him." reflects values important in the culture where this name first appeared.
Is Ursus a boy or girl name?
Ursus 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, Ursus has historically been given to boys. The meaning "This name derives from the Latin “ursus,” meaning “bear.” 1) Saint Ursicinus is venerated as a martyr by the Catholic Church. He was said to be a physician of Ravenna. His legend is connected with Saint Vitalis, who is said to have encouraged the vacillating Ursicinus after the doctor was sentenced to death for his faith 2) Ursus is a 6th-century Italian saint. His feast day is February 1 (June 17 in some areas). The collegiate church of Saint Ursus in Aosta is dedicated to him." carries well for a son, giving the name lasting appeal.
How do you pronounce Ursus?
Ursus is pronounced "/ˈɜːr.səs/". This pronunciation follows en language patterns. As a single-syllable name, Ursus is quick to say and easy to call out. Pronunciation may vary slightly in polish, latin, 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 Ursus can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis. This pronunciation has been verified and represents the standard way to say the name.
How popular is the name Ursus?
Ursus is somewhat common, familiar to most people. With moderate popularity, Ursus offers familiarity without being everywhere. It's the kind of name people recognize but don't hear every day. Ursus'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 “ursus,” meaning “bear.” 1) Saint Ursicinus is venerated as a martyr by the Catholic Church. He was said to be a physician of Ravenna. His legend is connected with Saint Vitalis, who is said to have encouraged the vacillating Ursicinus after the doctor was sentenced to death for his faith 2) Ursus is a 6th-century Italian saint. His feast day is February 1 (June 17 in some areas). The collegiate church of Saint Ursus in Aosta is dedicated to him." likely influences its appeal, as parents often choose names that express values or hopes for their children. Among boys' names, Ursus holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
Where is the name Ursus commonly used?
Ursus is common in polish and 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 “ursus,” meaning “bear.” 1) Saint Ursicinus is venerated as a martyr by the Catholic Church. He was said to be a physician of Ravenna. His legend is connected with Saint Vitalis, who is said to have encouraged the vacillating Ursicinus after the doctor was sentenced to death for his faith 2) Ursus is a 6th-century Italian saint. His feast day is February 1 (June 17 in some areas). The collegiate church of Saint Ursus in Aosta is dedicated to him." carries universal appeal, helping explain why different cultures adopted Ursus into their naming traditions. A child named Ursus 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, Ursus 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.