Latin names belong to the Italic branch of Indo-European, ancestor of Romance languages. This collection contains 13,361 Latin names with their meanings, cultural backgrounds, and pronunciation guides. You'll find 7,014 names traditionally given to boys and 6,065 names for girls, reflecting naming patterns from ancient Rome and the Roman Empire. These names carry the linguistic heritage and cultural values of Latin-speaking communities. Common themes include divine, noble, nature, showing what Latin cultures have valued across generations.
This name derives from the Latin “Æmŭlus > Æmĭlĭus > Æmĭlĭa,” meaning “imitating, rivaling.” The gens Aemilia, originally written Aimilia, was one of the most ancient patrician houses in Rome. The family was said to have originated in the reign of Numa Pompilius, the second King of Rome, and its members held the highest offices of the state, from the early decades of the Republic to imperial times. Emily’s name has been used as a vernacular form of the Germanic “Amelia” up to the 19th-century. Used since the Middle Ages, it was popular in the 19th-century and is once again today. Émilie de Vialar (1797–1856) was a French nun who founded the missionary congregation of the Sisters of St. Joseph of the Apparition. She is venerated as a saint by the Catholic Church. Émilie Tavernier Gamelin (1800–1851) was a French Canadian social worker and Roman Catholic Religious Sister.
⭐ PopularThis name derives from the Latin “Æmŭlus > Æmĭlĭus > Æmĭlĭānus,” meaning “imitating, rivaling.” The gens Aemilia, originally written Aimilia, was one of the most ancient patrician houses in Rome. The family was said to have originated in the reign of Numa Pompilius, the second King of Rome, and its members held the state’s highest offices from the early decades of the Republic to imperial times. Emily’s name has been used as a vernacular form of the Germanic “Amelia” up to the 19th-century. Used since the Middle Ages, it was popular in the 19th-century and is once again today. Saints Castus and Emilius († 250 AD) are venerated as saints and martyrs by the Catholic Church. Saint Cyprian and Augustine of Hippo praise them. When they were imprisoned, Castus and Emilius denied that they were Christians under torture and were released.
⭐ PopularThis name may have different origins due to the unification of the term concerning its origin. 1) From the Latin “Almus,” meaning “kind, nourishing, vital, who maintains life, (poetic) nourishing, vital (of divinity) benign, beneficial.” 2) This name represents the short form of Germanic names beginning with the element “Amal-,” especially Amalia. 3) From the Spanish “alma,” from the Latin “anima,” meaning “soul, spirit, life, breath, the vital principle,” from the Proto-Italic “*anamos” (Greek: ánemos’ ἄνεμος’), meaning “breathe.” A) Alma Adamkienė (born 1927) is the wife of the former President of Lithuania, Valdas Adamkus, and was First Lady during his two terms (1998–2003; 2004–2009). She also holds United States citizenship. B) Alma Maria Schindler (1879–1964) was a Viennese-born socialite well known in her youth for her beauty and vivacity.
⭐ PopularThis name derives from the Old French, based on past participle form of the verb “esmer,” meaning “esteemed, loved, beloved,” which in turn derives from the Latin “æstĭmāre > æstĭmo,” meaning “estimate, evaluate, appreciate.” First recorded as a male given name in Scotland in the sixteenth century. 1) Esmé Stewart, 1st Duke of Lennox (1542–1583), was the son of John Stewart, 5th Lord of Aubigny, who was the younger brother of Matthew Stewart, 4th Earl of Lennox. 1) Esmé Stewart, 3rd Duke of Lennox (1579–1624), was the son of Esmé Stewart, 1st Duke of Lennox. He was a patron of the playwright Ben Jonson, who lived in his household for five years.
⭐ PopularThis name means “consecrated to the god Mars, god of war, dedicated to Mars.” The name derives from the Latin praenomen “Marcus” derived from “Mars,” the Roman god of war, originally Mavors, which in turn derives from the Proto Indo-European root “*Māwort-,” probably reconstructed from the Indian (Sanskrit: Marutas), a given name of ancient Roman Pre-Christian origin. It is referring to the mythological figure Mars because Mars was identified as the Roman god of war. The name ‘Mars’ can be taken by extension to refer to the deity Ares in the ancient Greek pantheon. Marcus developed as a patronymic or locational surname in Italy, southern France, and Spain around 1000 AD, traceable to religious monasteries and sanctuaries called Sanctus Marcus (or its many variants). Mark the Evangelist is the traditional author of the Gospel of Mark. He is one of the Seventy Disciples, founder of the Church of Alexandria, one of the four main original episcopal seats of Christianity. Martis dies in Latin is the second day of the week for some cultures and in honor of the god Mars.
It is a name of medieval origin from the Latin “perla,” meaning “pearl.” This name came into widespread use along with other gemstone names during the late Victorian Era. The name Margaret may have also inspired it and Gyöngyi, which means “pearl,” in fact, the Greek “Margaritēs (μαργαρίτης)” means “pearl.” The word is related to “Marg” from “Marq” or “Marka,” meaning “chicken,” probably because pearls looked like small bird eggs. It is an auspicious name imposed on young girls who wished to be beautiful and precious as pearls.
This name derives from the Latin “Paulus,” which in turn derives from the Latin “parvus > parvulus,” meaning “tiny, small, humble, modest.” It is a common name in countries and ethnicities with a Christian heritage (Eastern Orthodoxy, Catholicism, Protestantism) and, beyond Europe, in Christian religious communities throughout the world. The name exists since Roman times. It derives from the Roman family name Paulus or Paullus - in particular in the Roman patrician family of the Gens “group of people, clan” Aemilia. Paul the Apostle, original name Saul of Tarsus, was a Christian missionary who took the gospel of Christ to the first-century world. He is generally considered one of the most important figures of the Apostolic Age.
This name is a variant of Amelia and Emilia and derives from two different roots: from Germanic (Gothic) “Amalia” which means “work, effort, strain, diligent.” The Amali, also called Amals or Amalings, were the leading dynasty of the Goths, a Germanic people who confronted the Roman Empire in its declining years in the west. The second root is from Latin “Aemilia,” meaning “imitating, rivaling.” Aimilia was one of the most ancient patrician houses in Rome. The family was said to have originated in the reign of Numa Pompilius, the second King of Rome, and its members held the state’s highest offices from the early decades of the Republic to imperial times.
This name derives from the Old French, based on past participle form of the verb “esmer,” meaning “esteemed, loved, beloved,” which in turn derives from the Latin “æstĭmāre > æstĭmo,” meaning “estimate, evaluate, appreciate.” First recorded as a male given name in Scotland in the sixteenth century. 1) Esmé Stewart, 1st Duke of Lennox (1542–1583), was the son of John Stewart, 5th Lord of Aubigny, who was the younger brother of Matthew Stewart, 4th Earl of Lennox. 1) Esmé Stewart, 3rd Duke of Lennox (1579–1624), was the son of Esmé Stewart, 1st Duke of Lennox. He was a patron of the playwright Ben Jonson, who lived in his household for five years.
This name is a short form of Albert, Alba, Albina, and Alban. The name is of Germanic and Latin origin and comes from the following roots: (ADELBERT) (ALBINUS) and (ALBA).
The origin of this name is still quite uncertain today. The theories include: A) From the Late Latin “Iūlius,” meaning “youth, youthful, juvenile.” B) A supreme god from the Latin and Proto Indo-European “*djew > iou-pater > Juppĭtĕr.” Jupiter is the King of the Gods and the God of sky and thunder in Roman Religion. C) From the Ancient Greek “Íoulos (ἴουλος),” meaning “haired, bearded, downy-bearded.” The Roman and the standard meaning is “sacred to Jupiter.” The gens Julia or Iulia was one of the most ancient Patrician families in ancient Rome. Members of the gens attained the highest dignities of the state in the earliest times of the republic. Iūlius is the fifth month of the Roman calendar. The month was renamed in honor of Gaius Julius Caesar after his death and deification, as he was born in this month. In republican Rome, the month was formally known as Quintilis, “fifth.” 1) Julius Caesar (100–44 BC) was a Roman general, statesman, Consul, and notable author of Latin prose. 2) Saint Giulia Salzano (1846–1929) was the founder of the Congregation of the Catechetical Sisters of the Sacred Heart of Jesus in 1905. The feast day is traditionally celebrated on May 17.
This name derives from the Latin “fēlix,” meaning “happiness, good fortune, good luck, fertile, rich in crops and fruits.” In ancient Roman culture, Felicitas is a condition of divinely inspired productivity, blessedness, or happiness. Felicitas could encompass both a woman’s fertility and a general’s luck or good fortune. The divine personification of Felicitas was cultivated as a goddess. Although “Felicitas” may be translated as “good luck,” and the goddess Felicitas shares some characteristics and attributes with Fortuna, the two were distinguished in Roman religion. 1) Marcus Antonius Felix was the Roman procurator of Iudaea Province, in succession to Ventidius Cumanus. Felix was the younger brother of the Greek freedman Marcus Antonius Pallas. 2) Felix of Nola was a Christian priest, revered as a saint by the Catholic Church.
This name derives from the Old English “credo, crede,” from the Latin “crēdō,” meaning “to believe.” 1) That which is believed; accepted doctrine, especially religious; a particular set of beliefs; any summary of principles or opinions professed or adhered to. Apollo Creed is a fictional character from the ‘Rocky’ films. He was played by Carl Weathers. He is a tough but agile boxer, who is, as the series begins, the undisputed heavyweight world champion.
This name derives from the Middle Irish “albbu,” which in turn derives from the Proto-Celtic “Alb-i̯en,” shared with the Latin root “albus > albinus,” which means “white, bright.” Saint Ailbe was a sixth-century Irish bishop. The vita, or “life,” of Ailbe is included in the “Vitae Sanctorum Hiberniae (VSH),” a collection of medieval Irish saints’ lives in Latin compiled in the fourteenth century.
This name is a variant of Amelia and Emilia and derives from two different roots: from Germanic (Gothic) “Amalia” which means “work, effort, strain, diligent.” The Amali, also called Amals or Amalings, were the leading dynasty of the Goths, a Germanic people who confronted the Roman Empire in its declining years in the west. The second root is from Latin “Aemilia,” meaning “imitating, rivaling.” Aimilia was one of the most ancient patrician houses in Rome. The family was said to have originated in the reign of Numa Pompilius, the second King of Rome, and its members held the state’s highest offices from the early decades of the Republic to imperial times.
Carter is a family name, and also a given name. Carter is an occupational name given to one who transports goods by cart or wagon. It is the 64th most common surname in the United Kingdom. Within the United States, it is ranked as the 40th-most common surname. This name derives from the Middle English “cart(e).” The Middle English term finally derives from the Old French “charetier,” meaning “charioteer,” from “chariot,” meaning “wagon,” which is the long-form of “Char,” meaning “car.” In turn, the name derives from the Latin “carrum,” meaning “four-wheel Gallic transport.”
The origin of this name is still quite uncertain today. The theories include: A) From the Late Latin “Iūlius,” meaning “youth, youthful, juvenile.” B) A supreme god from the Latin and Proto Indo-European “*djew > iou-pater > Juppĭtĕr.” Jupiter is the King of the Gods and the God of sky and thunder in Roman Religion. C) From the Ancient Greek “Íoulos (ἴουλος),” meaning “haired, bearded, downy-bearded.” The Roman and the standard meaning is “sacred to Jupiter.” The gens Julia or Iulia was one of the most ancient Patrician families in ancient Rome. Members of the gens attained the highest dignities of the state in the earliest times of the republic. Iūlius is the fifth month of the Roman calendar. The month was renamed in honor of Gaius Julius Caesar after his death and deification, as he was born in this month. In republican Rome, the month was formally known as Quintilis, “fifth.” 1) Julius Caesar (100–44 BC) was a Roman general, statesman, Consul, and notable author of Latin prose. 2) Saint Giulia Salzano (1846–1929) was the founder of the Congregation of the Catechetical Sisters of the Sacred Heart of Jesus in 1905. The feast day is traditionally celebrated on May 17.
This name derives from the Latin “Mărĭus,” typical name of the Latin gens “Mărīa,” which is the plural of the Latin word “mărĕ,” meaning “sea.” The source is still today quite uncertain. The name seems to refer to the term “mas, maris,” which means “male, man.” It may also derive from the name of the god Mars, the Roman god of war, called initially “mavors,” which in turn derives from the Proto Indo-European root “*māwort-,” probably reconstructed from the Indian (Sanskrit: marutas). Gaius Marius was a Roman general and statesman. He held the office of consul an unprecedented seven times during his career.
This name means “consecrated to the god Mars, god of war, dedicated to Mars.” The name derives from the Latin praenomen “Marcus” derived from “Mars,” the Roman god of war, originally Mavors, which in turn derives from the Proto Indo-European root “*Māwort-,” probably reconstructed from the Indian (Sanskrit: Marutas), a given name of ancient Roman Pre-Christian origin. It is referring to the mythological figure Mars because Mars was identified as the Roman god of war. The name ‘Mars’ can be taken by extension to refer to the deity Ares in the ancient Greek pantheon. Marcus developed as a patronymic or locational surname in Italy, southern France, and Spain around 1000 AD, traceable to religious monasteries and sanctuaries called Sanctus Marcus (or its many variants). Mark the Evangelist is the traditional author of the Gospel of Mark. He is one of the Seventy Disciples, founder of the Church of Alexandria, one of the four main original episcopal seats of Christianity. Martis dies in Latin is the second day of the week for some cultures and in honor of the god Mars.
This name comes from the Latin superlative “Augustus” (sacred, holy, august, majestic, sublime, venerable, solemn) from “augĕo > augēre” (increase, develop, enlarge, strengthen, enhance). Augustus (Latin: Imperator Caesar Divi F. Augustus) was the founder of the Roman Empire and its first Emperor, ruling from 27 BC until he died in 14 AD). St. Augoustinos was bishop of Hippo Regius (present-day Annaba, Algeria). He was a Latin philosopher and theologian from the Africa Province of the Roman Empire and is generally considered as one of the greatest Christian thinkers of all time. Auguste Ferdinande of Austria, Princess of Bavaria (1825–1864), was the daughter of Leopold II, Grand Duke of Tuscany, and his first wife, Maria Anna of Saxony, and the wife of Luitpold, Prince Regent of Bavaria. Princess Augusta of Hesse-Kassel (1797–1889) was the wife of Prince Adolphus, Duke of Cambridge, the tenth-born child, and seventh son of George III of the United Kingdom and Charlotte of Mecklenburg-Strelitz.
This name means “consecrated to the god Mars, god of war, dedicated to Mars.” The name derives from the Latin praenomen “Marcus” derived from “Mars,” the Roman god of war, originally Mavors, which in turn derives from the Proto Indo-European root “*Māwort-,” probably reconstructed from the Indian (Sanskrit: Marutas), a given name of ancient Roman Pre-Christian origin. It is referring to the mythological figure Mars because Mars was identified as the Roman god of war. The name ‘Mars’ can be taken by extension to refer to the deity Ares in the ancient Greek pantheon. Marcus developed as a patronymic or locational surname in Italy, southern France, and Spain around 1000 AD, traceable to religious monasteries and sanctuaries called Sanctus Marcus (or its many variants). Mark the Evangelist is the traditional author of the Gospel of Mark. He is one of the Seventy Disciples, founder of the Church of Alexandria, one of the four main original episcopal seats of Christianity. Martis dies in Latin is the second day of the week for some cultures and in honor of the god Mars.
The origin of this name is still today quite uncertain. The theories include: 1) From the Latin “moneō,” which in turn derives from the Proto-Italic “*moneō,” meaning “warn, advise, remind.” 2) From the Ancient Greek “mónos (μόνος),” meaning “unique, alone, nun, solitary, hermit.” 3) An ancient name of North African origin whose etymology is unknown. The first reference to the name is found in the ancient numerical inscriptions. Numidia (202–46 BC) was an ancient Berber kingdom in modern-day Algeria and a smaller part of western Tunisia in North Africa. The name might include a reference to the ancient Libyan god “mon,” from Egyptian mythology “Amon” king of the gods. Saint Monica (AD 331–387) was the mother of Augustine of Hippo; she is venerated as a saint by the Catholic Church, which commemorates her on 27 August. Of Berber ethnicity, she was born into a profoundly Christian family with the right economic conditions. She was allowed to study and took advantage of it to read the “Bible” and meditate on it. Famous Christian legends recall Saint Monica weeping every night for her son Augustine.
This name means “whelp, cub, young pup, young dog” in Gaelic. Some names in this family are used in Scotland as a form of the name “Columba,” while the name “Colin” is used as a diminutive of Nicolas. In the United Kingdom and Ireland, the name tends to be spelled with one “L,” Colin, whereas, in the United States, it is sometimes spelled with two, Collin. It was never a common name in England and Wales, probably peaking around the 1960s, and has not been in the top 100 boys’ names for decades. Saint Columba (Irish: Colm Cille, ‘church dove’) was an Irish abbot and missionary credited with spreading Christianity in present-day Scotland. He founded the famous abbey on Iona, which became a dominant religious and political institution in the region for centuries. He was highly regarded by both the Gaels of Dál Riata and the Picts and is remembered today as a Christian saint and one of Ireland’s twelve apostles.
This name derives from the English “cadence” meaning, “rhythm, flow,” from the Middle French “cadence,” from the Italian “cadenza,” which in turn derives from the Latin “cadentia > cădĕre > cădo,” meaning “fall, get off, drop.” It has risen in popularity in the United States, where it ranked at no. 214 in popularity for baby girls in 2006, having jumped 745 places up the chart since 2002 when it was ranked at No. 959. It peaked in 2007 when it reached no. 199. This name is also linked to the Irish and Scottish Gaelic surname “Mac Cadáin” (son of Cadán), in turn from the Old Irish “cath” from the Proto-Celtic “*katus,” meaning “battle.” Caden is a given name popular in the United States and Canada in recent years.
This name comes from the Latin word “cælum > cælestis,” meaning “heavenly, coming from the sky, the blue color of the sky.” The name spread in a Christian context, used concerning the Virgin Mary “Queen Mother in Heaven.” Queen of Heaven (Latin: Regina Caeli) is one of many Queen titles used by the Virgin Mary. The title derived in part from the ancient Catholic teaching that Mary, at the end of her earthly life, was bodily and spiritually assumed into heaven, and that she is there honored as Queen. Saint Celeste Metz was the 2nd Bishop of Metz and is revered as a saint by the Catholic Church, the Orthodox Churches, and the Anglican Communion. Pope Celestine V was the head of the Catholic Church for a few months from 5 July to 13 December 1294 when resigned.
The origin of this name is still quite uncertain today. The theories include: A) From the Late Latin “Iūlius,” meaning “youth, youthful, juvenile.” B) A supreme god from the Latin and Proto Indo-European “*djew > iou-pater > Juppĭtĕr.” Jupiter is the King of the Gods and the God of sky and thunder in Roman Religion. C) From the Ancient Greek “Íoulos (ἴουλος),” meaning “haired, bearded, downy-bearded.” The Roman and the standard meaning is “sacred to Jupiter.” The gens Julia or Iulia was one of the most ancient Patrician families in ancient Rome. Members of the gens attained the highest dignities of the state in the earliest times of the republic. Iūlius is the fifth month of the Roman calendar. The month was renamed in honor of Gaius Julius Caesar after his death and deification, as he was born in this month. In republican Rome, the month was formally known as Quintilis, “fifth.” 1) Julius Caesar (100–44 BC) was a Roman general, statesman, Consul, and notable author of Latin prose. 2) Saint Giulia Salzano (1846–1929) was the founder of the Congregation of the Catechetical Sisters of the Sacred Heart of Jesus in 1905. The feast day is traditionally celebrated on May 17.
This name comes from the Latin superlative “Augustus” (sacred, holy, august, majestic, sublime, venerable, solemn) from “augĕo > augēre” (increase, develop, enlarge, strengthen, enhance). Augustus (Latin: Imperator Caesar Divi F. Augustus) was the founder of the Roman Empire and its first Emperor, ruling from 27 BC until he died in 14 AD). St. Augoustinos was bishop of Hippo Regius (present-day Annaba, Algeria). He was a Latin philosopher and theologian from the Africa Province of the Roman Empire and is generally considered as one of the greatest Christian thinkers of all time. Auguste Ferdinande of Austria, Princess of Bavaria (1825–1864), was the daughter of Leopold II, Grand Duke of Tuscany, and his first wife, Maria Anna of Saxony, and the wife of Luitpold, Prince Regent of Bavaria. Princess Augusta of Hesse-Kassel (1797–1889) was the wife of Prince Adolphus, Duke of Cambridge, the tenth-born child, and seventh son of George III of the United Kingdom and Charlotte of Mecklenburg-Strelitz.
This name derives from the Latin “lībĕr,” meaning “freedom, liberty, a condition of a free man, civil status as a free man.” Liber was a god of viticulture and wine, fertility, and freedom in ancient Roman religion and mythology. He was a patron deity of Rome’s plebeians and was part of their Aventine Triad. His festival of Liberalia (March 17) became associated with free speech and the rights attached to coming of age. Saint Liberata is venerated as a holy virgin and martyr by the Catholic Church. According to hagiographic tradition, Liberata was the daughter of a Roman consul from the most western part of the Iberian Peninsula (today Galicia).
This name derives from Latin “dŏmĭnus > dŏmĭnĭcus,” meaning “head, sovereign, lord, patron, organizer,” (a title given to the emperors after Augustus). It has been used since the fourth century with the Christian meaning of “holy to the Lord,” although later its use was extended to children born on a Sunday (the day consecrated by the Lord). The name is still used, mostly by Catholics. The use of the English version began in the XIII century, in honor of St. Dominic. Domingo Félix de Guzmán (English: Saint Dominic, Spanish: Santo Domingo, 1170–1221) was the founder of the Dominican Order. Dominic is the patron saint of astronomers. Saint Dominic is honored in Roman Catholic Church, Anglican Church, and the Lutheran Church.
This name derives from the Latin “rex” (king, ruler, monarch), from “rēgālis” (regal, royal, king, worthy of a king). In turn, this name derives From the Proto-Indo-European “*herḗǵs” (ruler, king). Cognates include Sanskrit “rājan” (king) and Old Irish “rí” (king).
This name derives from the Latin “cămēllus,” from the Latinized form of Georg Joseph Kamel (1661–1706), a Moravian-born Jesuit who described the flora of the island of Luzon. The word Kamel or Camel derives from Ancient Greek kámēlos (κάμηλος), which in turn derives from the Semitic: (Arabic: Jamal) and (Hebrew: Gamal). Camellia, the camellias, is a genus of flowering plants in the family Theaceae. They are found in eastern and southern Asia, from the Himalayas east to Japan and Indonesia. There are 100–250 described species, with some controversy over the exact number.
This name derives from the Old English (Anglo-Saxon) and Latin “casrtum lēah,” meaning “camp on the meadow.” The surname Chesley was first found in Caldyrstarrs, where they held a family seat from very ancient times, some say well before the Norman Conquest and Duke William’s arrival at Hastings in 1066 A.D. Besides, Chesley is a commune in the Aube department in north-central France.
This name derives from the Latin “Pătrĭcĭus,” meaning “nobleman, patrician, of noble lineage, ancestry,” from “patres” nominative plural of “Pătĕr,” which in turn derives from the Proto-Italic “*patēr,” meaning “father, head of household.” The term “Patrician” originally referred to a group of elite families in Ancient Rome, including both their natural and adopted members. In the late Roman Empire, the class was broadened to include high council officials. After the fall of the Western Empire, it remained a senior honorary title in the Byzantine Empire. 1) Saint Patrick (Pádraig) was a fifth-century Romano-British Christian missionary and bishop in Ireland. Known as the “Apostle of Ireland,” he is the primary patron saint of Ireland and saints Brigit of Kildare and Columba. He is also venerated in the Anglican Communion, the Old Catholic Church, and the Eastern Orthodox Church as equal-to-apostles and Ireland’s Enlightener. 2) Saint Patricia of Naples (Patricia of Constantinople) is an Italian virgin martyr and saint. Tradition states that she was noble and may have been related to the Roman Emperor. Some sources say that she was a descendant of Constantine the Great. Wishing to escape a marriage arranged by Constans II, she became a nun, and she went to Rome.
The origin of this name is still today quite uncertain. The theories include: 1) From the Latin “moneō,” which in turn derives from the Proto-Italic “*moneō,” meaning “warn, advise, remind.” 2) From the Ancient Greek “mónos (μόνος),” meaning “unique, alone, nun, solitary, hermit.” 3) An ancient name of North African origin whose etymology is unknown. The first reference to the name is found in the ancient numerical inscriptions. Numidia (202–46 BC) was an ancient Berber kingdom in modern-day Algeria and a smaller part of western Tunisia in North Africa. The name might include a reference to the ancient Libyan god “mon,” from Egyptian mythology “Amon” king of the gods. Saint Monica (AD 331–387) was the mother of Augustine of Hippo; she is venerated as a saint by the Catholic Church, which commemorates her on 27 August. Of Berber ethnicity, she was born into a profoundly Christian family with the right economic conditions. She was allowed to study and took advantage of it to read the “Bible” and meditate on it. Famous Christian legends recall Saint Monica weeping every night for her son Augustine.
This given name derives from the Latin “cornĕus > cornēlĭus” (horn, horned, hard as the horn). The origin of the Cornelii is lost to history, but the name Cornelius may be formed from the hypothetical surname Cornĕus, meaning “horny,” that is, having thick or callused skin. The Cornelia family was one of the most distinguished Roman families and produced a more significant number of illustrious men than any other house in Rome. This family was a significant contributor to the highest offices of the Republic and contested for consulships with the Fabii and the Valerii from the 3rd century BC. Cornelia Scipionis Africana was the second daughter of Publius Cornelius Scipio Africanus, the hero of the Second Punic War, and Aemilia Paulla.
From a Norman French nickname for an unfortunate person, from Old French “malheur” (unhappy, unlucky, unfortunate). The first part of the name: From Old French “mal,” from Latin “mălus,” from Proto-Indo-European “*mel-” (bad, wrong). The second part of the name: From Late Latin “augŭrĭum” chance; fortune. The Old French “malheur” in fact derives from Latin “mălus augŭrĭum.”
The origin of this name is still today quite uncertain. The theories include: 1) From the Germanic “Alfher” (from which Alvaro) or the Old Norse “Áleifr” from the Proto-Norse “*AnulaiƀaR” (from which Olaf). 2) From the Latin “ŏlīva” (olive, a symbol of peace, religious piety, or victory), referring to the fruit or the branch of the olive. 3) A third hypothesis, less accredited, is from the Mycenaean Greek “élaiwon (ἔλαιϝον),” Ancient Greek “élaion (ἔλαιον).” The names “Olaf” and “Oliver” are linked to the Latin root, but related to the Germanic and Norse, from (Alfher) and (Ólæifr). Saint Oliver Plunkett (1629–1681) was the Roman Catholic archbishop of Armagh and chief bishop of all of Ireland, who was the last victim of the papist plot.
The origin of this name is still today quite uncertain. The theories include: 1) From the Germanic “Alfher” (from which Alvaro) or the Old Norse “Áleifr” from the Proto-Norse “*AnulaiƀaR” (from which Olaf). 2) From the Latin “ŏlīva” (olive, a symbol of peace, religious piety, or victory), referring to the fruit or the branch of the olive. 3) A third hypothesis, less accredited, is from the Mycenaean Greek “élaiwon (ἔλαιϝον),” Ancient Greek “élaion (ἔλαιον).” The names “Olaf” and “Oliver” are linked to the Latin root, but related to the Germanic and Norse, from (Alfher) and (Ólæifr). Saint Oliver Plunkett (1629–1681) was the Roman Catholic archbishop of Armagh and chief bishop of all of Ireland, who was the last victim of the papist plot.
This name derives from the Latin root “grātus,” meaning “effortless beauty, gracefulness, elegance, beauty, gratitude, thanksgiving, forgiveness, indulgence.” The name has emerged in the Middle Ages about God’s grace, and its presence and distribution are mainly attributable to the worship and devotion to “Our Lady of Grace.” Our Lady of Graces (St. Mary of Graces) is a devotion to the Virgin Mary in the Roman Catholic Church. Churches with this dedication often owe their foundation to thankfulness for graces received from the Virgin Mary and are particularly numerous in Italy, India, Australia, the United States, France, and the Italian-speaking region of Switzerland.
This name derives from the Latin root “vincēre > victōria > victŏr,” meaning “conqueror, victory, (one who) conquers.” Victor is a masculine given name that has been used for centuries in numerous cultures and parts of the world. Victoria is a feminine first name. It is also used as a family name and is used as the female form corresponding to Victor. In Ancient Roman Religion, Victoria was the personified goddess of victory. She is the Roman equivalent of the Greek Goddess “Nike,” associated with “Bellona.” She was adapted from the Sabine agricultural Goddess Vacuna and had a temple on the Palatine hill. The Goddess “Vica Pota” was also sometimes identified with Victoria. In Ancient Roman religion, Vica Pota (Vincendi) was a Goddess whose shrine (Aedes) was located at the foot of the Velian Hill, on the site of the Domus of Publius Valerius Publicola. Pope Victor I (died 199) was a bishop of Rome, and hence a pope, in the late 2nd-century.
This name derives from French botanist Pierre Magnol, which in turn, his surname comes from the Latin “magnus,” meaning “large, big, great, important one.” Pierre Magnol (1638–1715) was a French botanist. He was born in the city of Montpellier, where he lived and worked for most of his life. Magnolia is a large genus of about 210 flowering plant species in the subfamily Magnolioideae of the family Magnoliaceae. It is named after French botanist Pierre Magnol.
This name derives from the English “cadence” meaning, “rhythm, flow,” from the Middle French “cadence,” from the Italian “cadenza,” which in turn derives from the Latin “cadentia > cădĕre > cădo,” meaning “fall, get off, drop.” It has risen in popularity in the United States, where it ranked at no. 214 in popularity for baby girls in 2006, having jumped 745 places up the chart since 2002 when it was ranked at No. 959. It peaked in 2007 when it reached no. 199. This name is also linked to the Irish and Scottish Gaelic surname “Mac Cadáin” (son of Cadán), in turn from the Old Irish “cath” from the Proto-Celtic “*katus,” meaning “battle.” Caden is a given name popular in the United States and Canada in recent years.
This name comes from the Latin root “Hadria > Hădrĭānus,” meaning “from the city Hadria,” concerning the modern and ancient city of Atri (province of Teramo) or Etruscan Adria (province of Rovigo), both of which claim the honor of having given its name to the Adriatic Sea. Several saints and six popes have borne this name, including the only English pope, Adrian IV, and the only Dutch pope, Adrian VI. Hadrian (Latin: Publius Aelius Traianus Hadrianus Augustus 76–138), was Roman Emperor from 117 to 138. He is best known for building Hadrian’s Wall, which marked the northern limit of Roman Britain.
The name of the flower was named in honor of the orchid grower William Cattley, Latinized then into Guglielmus Cattleyus. Cattleya (Brazilian orchid) is a genus of 113 species of orchids from Costa Rica and the Lesser Antilles south to Argentina. The genus was named in 1824 by John Lindley after William Cattley, who received and was the first to bloom a specimen of Cattleya labiata.
The name of the flower was named in honor of the orchid grower William Cattley, Latinized then into Guglielmus Cattleyus. Cattleya (Brazilian orchid) is a genus of 113 species of orchids from Costa Rica and the Lesser Antilles south to Argentina. The genus was named in 1824 by John Lindley after William Cattley, who received and was the first to bloom a specimen of Cattleya labiata.
This name derives from the Latin “fēlix,” meaning “happiness, good fortune, good luck, fertile, rich in crops and fruits.” In ancient Roman culture, Felicitas is a condition of divinely inspired productivity, blessedness, or happiness. Felicitas could encompass both a woman’s fertility and a general’s luck or good fortune. The divine personification of Felicitas was cultivated as a goddess. Although “Felicitas” may be translated as “good luck,” and the goddess Felicitas shares some characteristics and attributes with Fortuna, the two were distinguished in Roman religion. 1) Marcus Antonius Felix was the Roman procurator of Iudaea Province, in succession to Ventidius Cumanus. Felix was the younger brother of the Greek freedman Marcus Antonius Pallas. 2) Felix of Nola was a Christian priest, revered as a saint by the Catholic Church.
This name means “heavenly, divine, bright, shining one” (the lady of wild animals and goddess of hunting). In Latin (Roman Mythology), Diana was the goddess of the hunt and moon and birthing, being associated with wild animals and woodland, and having the power to talk to and control animals. She was equated with the Greek goddess “Artemis,” though she had an independent Italy origin. 1) Blessed Diana degli Andalò (1201–1236), sometimes d’Andalo, was a Dominican nun who founded a convent for her order dedicated to Saint Agnes in Italy. 2) Diane de Poitiers (1499–1566) was a French noblewoman and a prominent courtier at the courts of King Francis I and his son, Henry II of France. She became notorious as the latter’s favorite.
This name derives from the Latin “pĭus” meaning “pious, dutiful, (of living) man virtuous, devout, (of late) Blessed.” Saint Pio (Pius) was a Capuchin Catholic priest from Italy who is revered as a saint in the Catholic Church. He was born Francesco Forgione, and given the name Pius (Italian: Pio) when he joined the Capuchins, thus he was popularly known as Padre Pio. He became famous for bearing the stigmata. On 16 June 2002, he was canonized by Pope John Paul II.
Vi is a short form of Violet and Vivian. It is Greek and Latin origin and comes from the following roots: (VIOLA) and (VIVIANUS).
This name derives from the Latin “lætus > lætĭtĭa > letizia,” meaning “joy, a reason for joy, happiness, fecundity, fertility, lushness, grace, beauty, ornament (style).” In England, the form Lettice was widespread during the middle ages and was revived in the eighteenth century. Saint Leticia, whose feast day is October 21, is venerated as a virgin martyr. A saint with the same name had a feast day occurring on March 13. Her cult was diffused in Corsica (Letizia was the name of Napoleon’s mother) and can be found in medieval England (Saint Letycie, Lititia). A center of her cult in Spain is the Aragonese town of Ayerbe.
Em is a short form of Emma and Emily. It is of Latin and Germanic origin and comes from the following roots: (AEMILIUS) and (EMMA).
Esme is a variant of Esmé and Esmée and is a rare short form of Esmeralda. It is of Greek, Latin and Old French origin and comes from the following roots: (SMÁRAGDOS) and (ESMER).
This name derives from the Late Latin “urbānus,” meaning “citizen, a resident of the city, city-dweller.” The name was used for eight popes, a figure with this name is also mentioned in the letter of St. Paul to the Romans. Urban II was Pope from 12 March 1088 until his death on 29 July 1099. He is best known for initiating the First Crusade (1096–1099) and setting up the modern-day Roman Curia in the manner of a royal court to help run the Church.
This name comes from the Latin “vīvus” (alive) linked to the imperial Latin “Vivianus,” which means “he has life.” However, it can also be a derivative of the Roman cognomen “Vibianus,” probably of Etruscan origin, but of unknown meaning. The English male version of the name Vivian is attested since the Middle Ages. At the same time, its feminine use is more recent and maybe an anglicization of “Bébinn” or Vivien’s variant. The Bibiana version, on the other hand, represents a version of Viviana, still in use thanks to the devotion to St. Bibiana, a young Roman Christian who suffered martyrdom under Flavius Claudius Julian. The name day is celebrated on December 2. We also remember St. Vivianus, Bishop of Saintes on August 28, Saint Vivian, a martyr in Armenia, commemorated on March 10, and Saint Vivian, abbot of Altacomba, honored on May 20.
This name has several possible derivations, including: 1) name Invented by linguist Yrjö Karilas for his daughter in 1917 from the Finnish “seijas,” meaning “tranquil, serene.” 2) Finnish form of “Zeia,” Old High German diminutive form of “Luzei” which in turn derives from the Latin “lūx > lūcis > lucere (lūcĕo) > lūcĭus,” meaning “light, shine, clear, bright, shining, full of light.” 3) from the Roman goddess Seia that protects the seed once sown in the earth.
This name derives from the Latin “Laurentum” (wreathed/crowned with laurel), which in turn derives from “laurus,” meaning “laurel, from the place of laurel trees, laurel branch, laurel wreath.” Laurentum was an ancient Roman city of Latium situated between Ostia and Lavinium, on the west coast of the Italian Peninsula southwest of Rome. Laurence (Laurentius) was the second Archbishop of Canterbury from about 604 to 619. He was a member of the Gregorian mission sent from Italy to England to Christianize the Anglo-Saxons from their native Anglo-Saxon paganism, although the date of his arrival is disputed. San Lorenzo “St. Lawrence” is also linked to the night of the falling stars.
Tia is a short form of Tatiana, Tatyana, Letitia, Antonia, Cynthia, Patricia, and Tiara. It is of Italic (Sabine), Latin, Etruscan, Greek, and Persian (Fārsi) origin and comes from the following roots: (TATIANUS) (LÆTĬTĬA) (ANTŌNIUS) (KYNTHIA) (PĂTRĬCĬUS) and (TIARA).
Dea is a short form of Medea, Floridea, Amedea, and Taddea. It is of Greek, Latin and Syriac-Aramaic origin and comes from the roots: (MĒDEIA) (FLŌRA) (AMADEUS) and (THADDAÍOS).
This name is a diminutive of Tyburcy, Tyburcjusz, Tyburczy, Dziepołt, and Dypołt. The name is of Germanic and Latin origin and comes from the following roots: (DIETBALD) and (TĪBURTUS�).
The origin of this name is still quite uncertain today. The theories include: A) From the Late Latin “Iūlius,” meaning “youth, youthful, juvenile.” B) A supreme god from the Latin and Proto Indo-European “*djew > iou-pater > Juppĭtĕr.” Jupiter is the King of the Gods and the God of sky and thunder in Roman Religion. C) From the Ancient Greek “Íoulos (ἴουλος),” meaning “haired, bearded, downy-bearded.” The Roman and the standard meaning is “sacred to Jupiter.” The gens Julia or Iulia was one of the most ancient Patrician families in ancient Rome. Members of the gens attained the highest dignities of the state in the earliest times of the republic. Iūlius is the fifth month of the Roman calendar. The month was renamed in honor of Gaius Julius Caesar after his death and deification, as he was born in this month. In republican Rome, the month was formally known as Quintilis, “fifth.” 1) Julius Caesar (100–44 BC) was a Roman general, statesman, Consul, and notable author of Latin prose. 2) Saint Giulia Salzano (1846–1929) was the founder of the Congregation of the Catechetical Sisters of the Sacred Heart of Jesus in 1905. The feast day is traditionally celebrated on May 17.
Bia is a Portuguese short form of Beatriz and Maria. The name is of Latin and Hebrew origin and comes from the following roots: (BEATRIX) and (MIRIAM).
This name derives from the Medieval Latin and Germanic (Visigoth) “Gundisalvus,” composed of two elements: the Germanic element “*guntho / *gunþiz” (battle, fight, the act of killing, blow, to strike) plus the Latin word “salvus” (safe, well, unharmed, untouched, saved, healthy, intact). The second element, however, could also be attributed to the Germanic (Gothic) “saiwala,” meaning “soul, spirit.” The popular meaning is “one who assists in battle.” Saint Gonzalo (or Gundisalvus) (~1040–1108), a medieval Galician nobleman and clergyman, was the long-serving Bishop of Mondoñedo from 1071.
This name derives from the Latin “Paulus,” which in turn derives from the Latin “parvus > parvulus,” meaning “tiny, small, humble, modest.” It is a common name in countries and ethnicities with a Christian heritage (Eastern Orthodoxy, Catholicism, Protestantism) and, beyond Europe, in Christian religious communities throughout the world. The name exists since Roman times. It derives from the Roman family name Paulus or Paullus - in particular in the Roman patrician family of the Gens “group of people, clan” Aemilia. Paul the Apostle, original name Saul of Tarsus, was a Christian missionary who took the gospel of Christ to the first-century world. He is generally considered one of the most important figures of the Apostolic Age.
This name is a short form of Alonzo, Laurence, and Leonard. The name is of Germanic (Gothic), Germanic and Latin origin and comes from the following roots: (ADALFUNS / HILDEFONS) (LAURENTĬUS) (LEONHARD) and (Ó LEANNÁIN).
This name derives from Latin “aurōra,” which in turn derives from Pie (Proto Indo-European) “*aus- / *aues,” meaning “down, shine, shed light, east, the eastern peoples (used to wish the beauty and brightness of dawn).” In Roman mythology, Aurora, goddess of the dawn, renews herself every morning and flies across the sky, announcing the arrival of the sun. Her parentage was flexible: for Ovid, she could equally be Pallantis, signifying the daughter of Pallas, or the daughter of Hyperion. She has two siblings, a brother (Sol, the sun) and a sister (Luna, the moon). Rarely, Roman writers imitated Hesiod and later Greek poets and named Aurora as the mother of the Anemoi (the Winds), who were the offspring of Astraeus, the father of the stars.
This name derives from the Latin “pāx,” meaning “peace, calm, tranquility.” It is taken from the title of the Virgin Mary, Nuestra Señora de la Paz, meaning “Our Lady of Peace.” Our Lady of Peace, Mother of Peace, Queen of Peace, or Our Lady Queen of Peace is a title of the Blessed Virgin Mary in the Roman Catholic Church. She is represented in art, holding a dove and an olive branch, symbols of peace. Her official memorial feast is celebrated on January 24 each year in Hawaii and some churches in the United States. Elsewhere, the memorial feast is celebrated on July 9.
This name comes from the Latin root “Hadria > Hădrĭānus,” meaning “from the city Hadria,” concerning the modern and ancient city of Atri (province of Teramo) or Etruscan Adria (province of Rovigo), both of which claim the honor of having given its name to the Adriatic Sea. Several saints and six popes have borne this name, including the only English pope, Adrian IV, and the only Dutch pope, Adrian VI. Hadrian (Latin: Publius Aelius Traianus Hadrianus Augustus 76–138), was Roman Emperor from 117 to 138. He is best known for building Hadrian’s Wall, which marked the northern limit of Roman Britain.
This name derives from the Latin “fēlix,” meaning “happiness, good fortune, good luck, fertile, rich in crops and fruits.” In ancient Roman culture, Felicitas is a condition of divinely inspired productivity, blessedness, or happiness. Felicitas could encompass both a woman’s fertility and a general’s luck or good fortune. The divine personification of Felicitas was cultivated as a goddess. Although “Felicitas” may be translated as “good luck,” and the goddess Felicitas shares some characteristics and attributes with Fortuna, the two were distinguished in Roman religion. 1) Marcus Antonius Felix was the Roman procurator of Iudaea Province, in succession to Ventidius Cumanus. Felix was the younger brother of the Greek freedman Marcus Antonius Pallas. 2) Felix of Nola was a Christian priest, revered as a saint by the Catholic Church.
This name spread among Christians since the beginning, reflecting the cult of “Mary Queen,” one of the names of the Vergin Mary. For the same reason became common in England in the Middle Ages, only to be revived in the nineteenth century. The male form was coined in the nineteenth century from the Latin “rex,” meaning “king, regent.” In turn, this name derives From the Proto-Indo-European “*herḗǵs” (ruler, king). Cognates include Sanskrit “rājan” (king) and Old Irish “rí” (king). The name rarely bestowed on children today. The King of Rome (Rex Romae), was the chief magistrate of the Roman Kingdom. Early Rome was not self-governing and was ruled by the king (Rex), sometimes from a nearby Etruscan city-state.
This name derives from the Latin “pĭus” meaning “pious, dutiful, (of living) man virtuous, devout, (of late) Blessed.” Saint Pio (Pius) was a Capuchin Catholic priest from Italy who is revered as a saint in the Catholic Church. He was born Francesco Forgione, and given the name Pius (Italian: Pio) when he joined the Capuchins, thus he was popularly known as Padre Pio. He became famous for bearing the stigmata. On 16 June 2002, he was canonized by Pope John Paul II.
This name derives from the Latin “Æmŭlus > Æmĭlĭus > Æmĭlĭānus,” meaning “imitating, rivaling.” The gens Aemilia, originally written Aimilia, was one of the most ancient patrician houses in Rome. The family was said to have originated in the reign of Numa Pompilius, the second King of Rome, and its members held the state’s highest offices from the early decades of the Republic to imperial times. Emily’s name has been used as a vernacular form of the Germanic “Amelia” up to the 19th-century. Used since the Middle Ages, it was popular in the 19th-century and is once again today. Saints Castus and Emilius († 250 AD) are venerated as saints and martyrs by the Catholic Church. Saint Cyprian and Augustine of Hippo praise them. When they were imprisoned, Castus and Emilius denied that they were Christians under torture and were released.
This name comes from the Latin superlative “Augustus” (sacred, holy, august, majestic, sublime, venerable, solemn) from “augĕo > augēre” (increase, develop, enlarge, strengthen, enhance). Augustus (Latin: Imperator Caesar Divi F. Augustus) was the founder of the Roman Empire and its first Emperor, ruling from 27 BC until he died in 14 AD). St. Augoustinos was bishop of Hippo Regius (present-day Annaba, Algeria). He was a Latin philosopher and theologian from the Africa Province of the Roman Empire and is generally considered as one of the greatest Christian thinkers of all time. Auguste Ferdinande of Austria, Princess of Bavaria (1825–1864), was the daughter of Leopold II, Grand Duke of Tuscany, and his first wife, Maria Anna of Saxony, and the wife of Luitpold, Prince Regent of Bavaria. Princess Augusta of Hesse-Kassel (1797–1889) was the wife of Prince Adolphus, Duke of Cambridge, the tenth-born child, and seventh son of George III of the United Kingdom and Charlotte of Mecklenburg-Strelitz.
This name is a diminutive of Abram, Abel, Albin, Amos, and Aron. The name is of Hebrew, Germanic, Latin and Old English (Anglo-Saxon) origin and comes from the following roots: (AVRAHAM) (HÉVEL) (*ALBIZ / ALB *-WINIZ) (ALBĪNUS) (ÆLF WINE) (ADALWIN) (AMOS) and (AARÓ̱N).
This name derives from the Latin “ursus > ursa,” meaning “little female bear.” Saint Ursula is a British Christian saint. Her feast day in the extraordinary form calendar of the Catholic Church is October 21. Because of the lack of accurate information about the anonymous group of holy virgins who, on some uncertain date, were killed at Cologne, their commemoration was omitted from the Catholic calendar of saints for liturgical celebration when it was revised in 1969, but they have been kept in the Roman Martyrology. Sister Ursula Ledóchowska (1865–1939), was an Austrian-born religious leader. She became a Roman Catholic nun and founded the Congregation of the Ursulines of the Agonizing Heart of Jesus. She is a prominent member of the Ledóchowski family.
Val is a short form of Valentine and Valerie. It is of Italic (Sabine) and Latin origin and comes from the following roots (VĂLĔRĬUS) and (VĂLENTĪNUS).
This name is a short form of Rosalind and Rosamund. It is of Germanic and Latin origin and comes from the following roots: (ROSLINDIS) and (*HRŌÞIZ *MUNDŌ) (RŎSA MUNDI / MUNDUM > MUND).
Mel is a short form of Melvyn, Melvin, Melanie, Melina, Melinda, Melissa, Melody, Melitta, and Melville. It is of Latin, Old French, and Greek origin and comes from the roots: (MALLEVILLE) (MELANÍA) (MÈLISSA) and (MĔLŌDĬA). Melissa is Bee-nymph in Greek mythology.
This name derives from the old French surname “Cauvin,” meaning “a bald person,” from the Latin “calvus,” which in turn derives from the Proto Indo-European “* kle-wo.” Jehan Cauvin was an influential French theologian and pastor during the Protestant Reformation. He was a principal figure in the development of the system of Christian theology, later called Calvinism. Originally trained as a humanist lawyer, he broke from the Roman Catholic Church around 1530.
This name derives from the Old Norse “*Anur,” meaning “ancestor, father.” Oge and Åge are also a diminutive of the name “August.” This name is of Old Norse and Latin origin and comes from the following roots (*ANUR) and (AUGUSTUS).
Moe is a short form of Maurice, Morris, and Monica. It is of Greek, Latin, and African origin and comes from the following roots: (MAURUS) (MON) (MONEŌ) and (MÓNOS).
This name Lia is a short form of Rosalia, Elisabet and a variant form of Lea and Leah. It is of Hebrew, Latin, (Greek) and Germanic origin and comes from the following roots: (LÊ'ÂH) (RŎSA) (HROD / HRÔMA) and (ELISHEVA).
Dee is a short form of Dorothy, Dalicia, Dalise, Dalisha, and Dalisse. It is of Greek and Latin origin and comes from the following roots: (DŌROTHÉA) and (DĒLĬCĬA).
This name derives from the Roman day praenomen “Tĭtus,” linked to the Imperial Latin “Titianus,” meaning “honorable or resembling a dove, wild dove.” Titus Flavius Caesar Vespasianus Augustus; († 79) was Roman Emperor from 79 to 81. A member of the Flavian dynasty, Titus succeeded his father Vespasian upon his death, thus becoming the first Roman emperor to come to the throne after his father. The name day occurs on March 3, in memory of Saint Titian of Brescia (Italian: San Tiziano di Brescia), a 5th-century bishop of Brescia. In the list of bishops of Brescia, he is considered the fifteenth bishop of Brescia, succeeding Vigilius and preceding Paul II. (Biblical) the seventeenth book of the new testament of the Bible, the epistle to Titus. Saint Titian of Oderzo (Italian: San Tiziano di Oderzo) was a 7th-century bishop of Opitergium (Oderzo), in the Province of Treviso.
This name comes from the Latin root “flōs,” meaning “flower, blossom, (figuratively) innocence, virginity.” This name is linked to “flōrĕo / flōrens” (bloom, be in flower (figuratively) flourish, shine, prosper, be overjoyed). The term “flora,” was used since the 13th century, in the sense of “virginity.” Flōra in Roman mythology was the goddess of flowers, gardens, and spring and the guardian of the flora, an equivalent of the Greek Chlori. While she was otherwise a relatively minor figure in Roman mythology, being one among several fertility goddesses, her association with the spring gave her particular importance at the coming of springtime. Her festival, the Floralia, was held between April 28 and May 3 and symbolized the renewal of the cycle of life, drinking, and flowers.
This name is a diminutive of Tyburcy, Tyburcjusz, Tyburczy, Dziepołt, and Dypołt. The name is of Germanic and Latin origin and comes from the following roots: (DIETBALD) and (TĪBURTUS�).
Bee is a short form of Beatrix and Bridget. The name is of Latin and Celtic origin and comes from the following roots: (BEATRIX) and (BRIGHID). The name has no connection with the little winged and producer of honey.
Gus is a short form of Angus, Augustus, Augustin, and Constantine. It is of Celtic, Pictish, and Latin origin and comes from the following roots (ÓENGUS) and (AUGUSTUS) (CŌSTANTĪNUS).
This name is a diminutive of Anna, Johanna, Johanne, Amanda, and Marianne. It is of Hebrew and Latin origin and comes from the following roots: (ḤANNĀH) (YEHOCHANAN) (ĂMANDUS) and (MIRIAM).
This name derives from the Ancient Greek “país (παῖς) paidíon (παιδίον),” meaning “son, youthful, child.” The name page or Paget, in its original translation, derives from the Latin “pāgĭna,” meaning “page, a sheet of papyrus.” In modern times Paige has become a given name, generally given to girls living in North America since the middle of the 20th-century and occasionally to boys. A medieval household page was usually a young boy whose service was the first step in his training as a knight.
It is a male given name coined in the 19th-century from the Latin “rex,” meaning “king, regent.” In turn, this name derives From the Proto-Indo-European “*herḗǵs” (ruler, king). Cognates include Sanskrit “rājan” (king) and Old Irish “rí” (king). He has rarely bestowed on children today. The King of Rome (Rex Romae), was the chief magistrate of the Roman Kingdom. Early Rome was not self-governing and was ruled by the king (Rex), sometimes from a nearby Etruscan city-state.
Zio is a pet form of names ending with “-zio,” such as Dalmazio, Ignazio, Maurizio, Orazio, Pancrazio, Marzio, and Tiburzio. Zio in Italian also is used as a nickname and means “dude,” however, the word “zio” in Italian means uncle.
In ancient Roman religion, Ops or Opis (Latin: Plenty) was a fertility deity and earth-goddess of Sabine origin. Husband of Ops was Saturn, the bountiful monarch of the Golden Age. Just as Saturn was identified with the Greek god Cronus, Ops was identified with Rhea, Cronus' wife, and sister. In her statues and coins, Opis is figured sitting down, as Chthonian gods usually are, and generally holds a scepter or a corn spike as her main attributes. The Chthonian deities are the manifestations of the Great Goddess, such as Gaia or Ge.
In ancient Roman religion, Ops or Opis (Latin: Plenty) was a fertility deity and earth-goddess of Sabine origin. Husband of Ops was Saturn, the bountiful monarch of the Golden Age. Just as Saturn was identified with the Greek god Cronus, Ops was identified with Rhea, Cronus' wife, and sister. In her statues and coins, Opis is figured sitting down, as Chthonian gods usually are, and generally holds a scepter or a corn spike as her main attributes. The Chthonian deities are the manifestations of the Great Goddess, such as Gaia or Ge.
This name means “to cut, clipper, the cutter.” It derives from the surname Taylor, which is a variant of the English word “tailor,” meaning “tailor.” Tailor originally meant one who held that profession, and the word itself comes from the Norman-French “taillur,” which in turn derives from the Latin “taliāre,” meaning “to cut.”
This name derives from the Old Norse “*Anur,” meaning “ancestor, father.” Oge and Åge are also a diminutive of the name “August.” This name is of Old Norse and Latin origin and comes from the following roots (*ANUR) and (AUGUSTUS).
This name is a diminutive of Kai, Gerhard, Nicolaas, Nikolaus, Cornelis and Gaius. It is of Germanic, Greek, Latin and Etruscan origin and comes from the roots: (GERHARD) (NĪKÓLĀOS�) (CORNĒLĬUS) and (GAIUS).
Mal is a short form of Malcolm and Mallory and is derived from a frenetic list of sources: Breton, Welsh, Latin, Gaelic, PIE (Proto Indo-European) and Old French. This name is linked to the following roots: (MÁEL) (CŎLUMBA) COLUIM/CUILÉN and (*MEL- / MĂLUS AUGŬRĬUM > MAL HEUR > MALHEUR).
This name is a short form of Priscilla and Prudence. It is of Latin origin and comes from the following roots: (PRISCUS) and (PRUDENTIUS).
In ancient Roman religion, Ops or Opis (Latin: Plenty) was a fertility deity and earth-goddess of Sabine origin. Husband of Ops was Saturn, the bountiful monarch of the Golden Age. Just as Saturn was identified with the Greek god Cronus, Ops was identified with Rhea, Cronus' wife, and sister. In her statues and coins, Opis is figured sitting down, as Chthonian gods usually are, and generally holds a scepter or a corn spike as her main attributes. The Chthonian deities are the manifestations of the Great Goddess, such as Gaia or Ge.
This name derives from the Latin root “vălĕo / vălens > Vălentīnus,” meaning: 1) Be healthy, strong, vigorous, have strength. 2) To be in good health, be healthy, feel good. 3) (figuratively) to have power, be powerful. 4) (figuratively) apply, to prevail, to have influence, importance. 5) Be capable of having the strength to be able to contribute to power. A) Saint Valentine (Latin: Valentinus) was a widely recognized 3rd-century Roman saint commemorated on February 14 and associated since the High Middle Ages with a tradition of courtly love. B) Pope Valentine (~800–827) was Pope for two months in 827. Born in Rome in the Via Lata region, Valentine was the son of a Roman noble called Leontius. C) Valentinus (~100–160) was the best known and, for a time, most successful early Christian gnostic theologian. He founded his school in Rome. According to Tertullian, Valentinus was a candidate for Rome’s bishop but started his group when another was chosen.
Latin names have roots from roughly 700 BCE to 500 CE. As part of the Italic branch of Indo-European, ancestor of Romance languages, these names carry sounds and meanings shaped by thousands of years of linguistic development. The naming traditions of ancient Rome and the Roman Empire reflect the history, beliefs, and social structures of the people who lived there.
Latin names originated in ancient Rome and spread throughout the Roman Empire. The Roman naming system included a praenomen (first name), nomen (clan name), and cognomen (family branch). Many Latin names entered other languages through Christianity and scholarly traditions.
Today, Latin names appear far beyond ancient Rome and the Roman Empire. Immigration, global media, and cultural exchange have made many Latin names familiar worldwide. Parents choose these names to honor heritage, appreciate their meanings, or simply because they like how they sound. The 13,361 names in this collection range from ancient choices still popular today to names that have fallen out of use but retain historical interest.
Latin naming traditions have developed their own patterns and preferences. Names may honor family members, reflect religious beliefs, describe hoped-for qualities, or commemorate significant events. These patterns explain which names stayed popular.
These traditional patterns still matter, but modern parents also mix things up. Some combine traditional and contemporary elements, pick names from other cultures, or create unique variations of classic names.
This collection breaks down to 52% masculine names (7,014) and 45% feminine names (6,065). About 2% (282) work as gender-neutral or unisex options.
Latin names follow the phonetic rules of their language of origin. English speakers may need to adjust their pronunciation for sounds that don't exist in English. Each name page includes a pronunciation guide to help.
When in doubt about pronunciation, listening to native speakers helps more than reading transliterations. Each name page has a pronunciation guide. If you're considering a Latin name for your child, say it out loud and think about how others in your community will pronounce it.
With 13,361 names in our database, Latin is one of our bigger origin categories. These names appear on birth certificates worldwide, from ancient Rome and the Roman Empire to immigrant communities on every continent.
The collection offers balanced options for both genders, with 7,014 names for boys and 6,065 for girls.
Current naming trends show renewed interest in heritage names, with parents seeking meaningful connections to cultural roots. Some Latin names have crossed over to mainstream use, while others remain specific to Latin-speaking communities.
Popular Latin names for boys include Emily, Emil, Alma, Esmé, Marco. Our database contains 7,014 Latin names traditionally given to boys, ranging from classic choices to unique options.
Our collection includes 6,065 Latin names for girls. Popular choices blend traditional sounds with meaningful origins. Use the feminine tab to explore options organized by popularity.
Latin names carry meanings from the Italic branch of Indo-European, ancestor of Romance languages. Common themes in Latin names include divine, noble, nature, life. Each name in our database includes its specific meaning and cultural context.
Latin names follow the phonetic rules of their language. Each name page includes a pronunciation guide. When uncertain, listening to native speakers provides the most accurate reference.
This database contains 13,361 Latin names: 7,014 for boys and 6,065 for girls. This represents documented names that have been used historically or are in current use. The actual number of Latin names ever used is certainly higher.
Spelling difficulty depends on the specific name and your familiarity with Latin phonetics. Some Latin names have been adapted to English spelling conventions, making them straightforward. Others retain original spellings that may be unfamiliar. Consider how important easy spelling is to you when choosing a name.