25 Latin Baby Names for Boys That Prove the ‘Dead Language’ Is Alive And Well

Salve! Latin baby names might conjure images of Ancient Rome. They may even make you think of Roman Gods and Goddesses and their mystical shenanigans. But, most baby names used in the Western world have Latin origins. Popular monikers like Lucas, Oliver, and Max all have roots in Latin. This should come as no surprise as Latin is the basis for Romance languages which are some of the most spoken in the entire world.

Now, we venture to guess that you’re not looking for a Latin name like Amadeus or Adrianus for your son. Those names seem over-the-top and dated. You’re probably more inclined to choose a Latin baby name with more of a contemporary or timeless feel. And, there are plenty of Latin names for boys that sound clean and cool without giving off antiquated vibes. Here are 25 Latin baby names for boys that prove that Latin names are evergreen.

25. Dominic

The handsome name, Dominic comes from the Latin family name Dominicus. For many practicing Roman-Catholics, the name should ring some bells. Dominic is a name for boys that’s traditionally been given to children born on Sundays. The name means “belonging to the lord.”

24. Leo

Leo is not only a fabulous Latin name for boys, but it’s also the Latin word for “lion.” Thirteen popes have been named Leo. Not only popular among the pious, Leo was also favored by the Romans. For astrology lovers, the name Leo might appeal and would be a good choice for boys born in July or August.

23. Roman

As you might have guessed, Roman means “citizen of Rome.” This handsome name is hot again! Cate Blanchett and Debra Messing both chose the name for their sons.

22. Jude

Jude is a beautifully simple name for boys with Latin origins that means “praised.” This name experienced a resurgence after the release of The Beatles’ song “Hey Jude.” The popularity of actor Jude Law has also given this name some contemporary clout.

21. Paxton

Paxton is an attractive name for boys with an amicable meaning, “peace town.” Paxton is most commonly known to most as a surname as in Bill Paxton. But, it’s also a great choice for a given name. Paxton Lynch, the quarterback of the Pittsburg Steelers is a great example.

20. Felix

Why does the letter “X” improve a name so much? Like Paxton, Felix is another name that benefits from the slight edge of having an “X” in it. Felix began as a Roman surname, but it became a hot nickname in antiquity for someone with excellent luck. The name means “fortunate.”

19. Ace

The winning name, Ace comes from Latin and means “one” or “unity.” For competitive parents out there, this would be the ideal choice. Jessica Simpson has a little one with the name.

18. Dante

Dante is an Italian diminutive of the Latin, Durant. The name means “enduring” and we can confirm, the name has staying power. Name to one of the most famous Italian poets of all time, Dante Alighieri who wrote his Divine Comedy in the 13th Century helped make this name a popular name choice for Italian parents for centuries.

17. Atticus

Atticus is a Latin name that means “from Attica.” Attica was an Ancient Greek region containing Athens. For Americans, Atticus entered the conversation after they were introduced to Atticus Finch in To Kill a Mockingbird. In 2018, Atticus was in the top 500 names chosen for boys in the US.

16. Cesar

While Julius preferred the spelling: Caesar, we love the streamlined spelling: Cesar. The name is very popular among Spanish-speakers and we would love for even more parents to choose this attractive name. The name means “head of hair.”

15. Rex

The regal name Rex means “king.” This simple and offbeat name is back in fashion for human boys after enjoying popularity among dinosaurs and dogs for years. Rex was in the top 1000 names chosen for boys in the US in 2018.

14. Sebastian

Sebastian is Latin and comes from the Greek name Sebastianos. It means “from Sebastia.” Sebastia was an ancient city that was located near modern-day Sivas, Turkey. Sebastian is a stunning name that comes with amazing nicknames free-of-charge: Baz, Seb, and Bastian.

13. Silas

Silas comes from the Latin name Silvanus. In Roman mythology, Sylvanus was a god of trees and forests, and the name was often given to those who lived in wooded settings or who worked with wood. The name can be found in the New Testament of the bible and it belonged to St. Silas.

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12. Justus

Similar to Justin and not as literal as Justice, Justus is a Latin name that strikes the perfect balance. Justus enjoyed favor from 1903-1980s before it fell out fashion. The name Justice has been trending and we think Justus is a strong alternative. The name Justus can be found in the Bible and was the name of a potential apostle after Judas betrayed Jesus.

11. Aries

While Aries has been traditionally given to boys, we think the name works well as a unisex name. Aries is a Latin name that means “a ram.” For astrology-loving parents, the name is also an opportunity to celebrate the sign. It would be the perfect name for a boy born in March or April.

10. Crispin

Now, we’re not sure what to think about the eccentric actor, Crispin Glover, but we are fond of his name. Crispin means “curly-haired.” Saints Crispin and Crispinian were twin brothers who were banished because of their faith. The pair went on to preach Christianity to the Gauls while making shoes at night. They are patron saints of cobblers and tanners.

9. Jove

Jupiter, king of the Roman gods was also known as Jove. Jupiter was considered an aerial god and his identifying element was a thunderbolt and his sacred animal was an eagle. Jupiter was the figure in Ancient Rome. If you love mythology and would like a name that doesn’t sound so grandiose, Jove would be a superb option.

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8. Rufus

Rufus is a Latin baby name that means “red-head.” Rufus is a name that fell out of fashion but is now very cool again. King William was nicknamed Rufus because of his red hair. Musician Rufus Wainwright is a famous example of someone who makes the name feel current.

7. Vito

Vito is a popular Latin name among Italian speakers. The spunky name means “alive.” Dog-lovers might be especially fond of this name as St. Vitus is the patron saint of dogs.

6. Prince

At number 318 on the list of most popular names for boys, Prince is enjoying mass appeal. The Latin name means “chief.” Due to the popularity of the musician Prince, the name was on an upward climb until 2016 when he died. Since then, the name has been more popular than ever.

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5. Remy

Remy is a noble-sounding name that comes from the Latin family name Remigius which means “oarsman.” The name is extremely popular in France and if you saw, Ratatouille you probably know about Chef Remy.

4. Vincent

Vincent is a classic name with some casually cool-sounding nicknames: Vince and Vin. Vincent means “conquering.” Probably the most famous Vincent, post-impressionist painter Vincent van Gogh is considered one of the most influential artists of all time.

3. Calvin

It might not have the most pleasant name meaning, “bald,” but Calvin is an exceptionally handsome title. In 2018, Calvin made the top 200 list of names for boys. Rapper Calvin Cordozar Broadus Jr. is better known as Snoop Dogg, has a very impressive name.

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2. August

The month of August was named for Emperor Augustus and the name still reigns. August means “magnificent.” A couple of very important playwrights have had the name, American writer August Wilson and Swedish writer August Strindberg.

1. Marcus

Marcus and Mark were nearly tied in popularity in 2018. Marcus landed at 209 while Mark trailed slightly at 210. We love both, but if we had to pick a favorite it would be the more Roman-sounding Marcus. The name means “warlike.” Perhaps the Ancient Romans enjoyed that meaning because a whole bunch of them went by Marcus. Marcus Aurelius, Marcus Antonius, Marcus Lepidus, Marcus Cato, and Marcus Traianus are just a few notable examples.

We love each of these 25 names for boys with Latin origins. They may be old names, but they still feel fresh. Any of these baby names would be a wonderful choice for your baby boy.