There’s something about naming a boy that comes so easy to some parents, yet so challenging to others. It’s either something you chose 20 years ago or something you’ll need an entire nine months to mull over.
And while parents have an endless roster of names to choose from, some of the most unique and popular ones are Roman names for boys, which are known for their power, grace, meaning, and ancient roots.
Some Roman names for boys, such as Apollo, are inspired by gods in Roman mythology, while other names, such as Julius and Augustus, are inspired by famous Roman emperors, leaders, and warriors.
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For parents who want to give their son a name that resonates with both power and tradition, Roman names for boys offer a treasure trove of possibilities that are both unique and deeply rooted in history.
And don’t worry, there’s a Roman name out there for every personality, so no child gets left out. And that’s true whether you want a name that’s simple, sophisticated, strong, soft, long, short, or easy to remember.
With that said, let’s take a look at 50 of our favorite ancient Roman names for boys with big aspirations!
Latin-Derived Roman Names for Boys
Latin is an ancient Indo-European language that originated in the region of Latium, which encompasses the city of Rome, in central Italy. Over time, Latin emerged as the primary language of the Roman Empire.
While Latin is rarely spoken today, it persisted long after the fall of the Roman Empire in the 5th century CE and eventually evolved into the Romance languages, including French, Spanish, Italian, and others.
It’s also still used in the naming of species in biology (binomial nomenclature), legal terms (e.g., habeas corpus, pro bono), and in Catholic religious practices. In fact, it’s still an official language of Vatican City.
With that said, let’s take a look at some Roman names for boys that have Latin or Roman roots.
10. Cornelius
Origin: Cornelius is of Latin origin.
Derivation: The name Cornelius is derived from the Latin word cornu, meaning “horn.”
Similar Names: Caius, Cassius, Cato, Claudius, Crispus, Celer, Cincinnatus, Caelus, Carus, Castor, Cyprian, Curtius, Corvinus, Camillus, Clemens, Crassus, Celsus, Cinna, Commodus
9. Flavius
Origin: Flavius is of Latin origin.
Derivation: The name Flavius is derived from the Latin flavus, meaning “yellow” or “blonde.”
Similar Names: Fabius, Faustus, Fabricius, Felix, Flavius, Fulvius, Fulgentius, Festus, Firmus, Fortunatus, Fronto, Flaminius, Florus, Frontinus, Fuscus, Fidentius, Ferox, Fimbria, Fulcrus, Fidelius
8. Justus
Origin: Justus is of Latin origin.
Derivation: The name Justus is derived from the Latin justus, meaning “just” or “righteous.”
Similar Names: Julius, Januarius, Jovian, Justinus, Jucundus, Jovina, Jullus, Jovinus, Jucundianus, Justianus, Jugurtha, Juvenal, Januarius, Juvencus, Juvinus, Julus, Joviacus, Jovinianus, Jocundus
7. Livius
Origin: Livius is of Latin origin.
Derivation: The name Livius is derived from the Latin family name Livius, possibly from lividus, meaning “bluish” or “envious.”
Similar Names: Lucius, Livius, Longinus, Lentulus, Laelius, Lupercus, Lupus, Libo, Lucanus, Lucretius, Laurentius, Lucterius, Latinus, Lollius, Luscus, Licinius, Lydus, Lucullus, Labienus, Larcius
6. Marius
Origin: Marius is of Latin origin.
Derivation: The name Marius is derived from the Latin Mars, the name of the Roman god of war.
Similar Names: Marcus, Maximus, Marcellus, Manius, Metellus, Messala, Martialis, Modestus, Mamercus, Magnus, Minucius, Manlius, Melissus, Macrinus, Merula, Mutianus, Mercator, Maro, Montanus
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5. Camillus
Origin: Camillus is of Latin origin.
Derivation: The name Camillus is derived from the Latin word camillus, meaning a youth who assisted in religious rituals.
Similar Names: Calvus, Capito, Carinus, Catulus, Cicero, Clodianus, Corvus, Crescens, Cumanus, Curius, Caecilius, Calpurnius, Cervius, Cossus, Craterus, Curio, Calidus, Caninius, Catiline, Certus, Cluvius
4. Aemilius
Origin: Aemillius is of Latin origin.
Derivation: The name Aemillius comes from the Roman family name Aemilius, which is derived from aemulus, meaning “rival.”
Similar Names: Aulus, Augustus, Antonius, Agrippa, Aemilius, Aetius, Albinus, Amulius, Annius, Apollinaris, Aquila, Arrius, Asinius, Atellus, Atticus, Aurelius, Avidius, Avitus, Albanus, Aelianus
3. Consus
Origin: Consus is of Roman mythology origin.
Derivation: The name Consus is derived from the ancient Roman god of grain storage and harvest.
Similar Names: Castricius, Candidus, Camillus, Caracalla, Carbo, Cassiodorus, Cedrus, Centenius, Cervidius, Cletus, Cocceius, Cogidubnus, Collatinus, Cominius, Concordius, Cossutius, Cremutius, Cupiennius, Curatius
2. Horatius
Origin: Horatius is of Latin origin.
Derivation: The name Horatius is derived from the Roman family name Horatius, of uncertain meaning but possibly linked to time (Latin hora meaning “hour”).
Similar Names: Hadrianus, Hector, Herennius, Herminius, Hilarius, Honorius, Hortensius, Hostilian, Hyginus, Hanno, Horatius, Hyacinthus, Hilarianus, Helvidius, Heraclitus, Heron, Helvius, Hypatius, Hieronymus
1. Decimus
Origin: Decimus is of Latin origin.
Derivation: The name Decimus is derived from the Latin word decimus, meaning “tenth.”
Similar Names: Didius, Drusus, Domitian, Domitius, Dentatus, Dexter, Dardanus, Duilius, Durus, Densus, Damasus, Deiotarus, Decius, Demetrius, Desiderius, Donatus, Dursus, Dulcitius, Delius
Mythological Roman Names for Boys
Roman mythology is the ancient body of traditional stories pertaining to the legendary origins of Rome, the iconic foundation of the city, the beliefs and rituals of its people, and the myths that go along with it.
It includes a wide array of gods, goddesses, heroes, and mythical creatures that were deeply intertwined with Roman religion and culture. And its deities were often associated with practical aspects of daily life.
Not only that, but the Romans modeled their mythological traditions after coming into contact with Greek mythology. That’s why these two mythologies share a lot of the same deities, albeit with different names.
With that said, let’s take a look at some unique Roman names for boys inspired by Roman mythology.
10. Jupiter
Origin: Jupiter is of Roman mythology origin.
Derivation: The name Jupiter is derived from the Latin Iuppiter, meaning “father Jove” or “god of the sky.”
Significance: The king of the gods, Jupiter is the god of the sky, thunder, and lightning. He is often depicted as a powerful, bearded man holding a lightning bolt. His Greek counterpart is Zeus.
9. Neptune
Origin: Neptune is of Roman mythology origin.
Derivation: The name Neptune is derived from the Roman god of the sea, Neptunus.
Significance: Neptune is the god of the sea, water, and horses. He is usually shown with a trident and a crown, sometimes riding a chariot pulled by sea creatures. His Greek counterpart is Poseidon.
8. Mars
Origin: Mars is of Roman mythology origin.
Derivation: The name Mars is derived from the Roman god of war, Mars.
Significance: Mars is the god of war, symbolizing aggression and military prowess. He is often portrayed in full armor, wielding a spear or sword. His Greek counterpart is Ares.
7. Apollo
Origin: Apollo is of Greek and Roman mythology origin.
Derivation: The name Apollo is linked to the Greek and Roman god of the sun, music, and prophecy.
Significance: Apollo, a god of music, prophecy, healing, and the sun, is depicted as a youthful, handsome figure with a lyre or a bow. His Greek counterpart is also Apollo, as he is one of the few gods to share the same name in both cultures.
6. Vulcan
Origin: Vulcan is of Roman mythology origin.
Derivation: The name Vulcan comes from the Roman god of fire and metalworking.
Significance: The god of fire, metalworking, and the forge, Vulcan is shown as a strong, muscular man working at a blacksmith’s anvil. His Greek counterpart is Hephaestus.
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5. Mercury
Origin: Mercury is of Roman mythology origin.
Derivation: The name Mercury is derived from the Roman god of commerce, travel, and communication.
Significance: Mercury is the god of commerce, communication, and travelers. He is typically represented with winged sandals and a caduceus. His Greek counterpart is Hermes.
4. Somnus
Origin: Somnus is of Roman mythology origin.
Derivation: The name Somnus comes from the Roman god of sleep.
Significance: Somnus is the god of sleep, depicted as a gentle, sometimes winged figure who brings rest. His Greek counterpart is Hypnos.
3. Bacchus
Origin: Bacchus is of Roman mythology origin.
Derivation: The name Bacchus comes from the Roman god of wine, Bacchus.
Significance: The god of wine, revelry, and ecstasy, Bacchus is often shown holding a cup of wine, with grapevines surrounding him. His Greek counterpart is Dionysus.
2. Caelus
Origin: Caelus is of Roman mythology origin.
Derivation: The name Caelus is derived from the Roman god of the sky, Caelus.
Significance: Caelus represents the sky and heavens. He is an ancient and somewhat obscure deity, sometimes depicted as a starry figure. His Greek counterpart is Uranus.
1. Janus
Origin: Janus is of Roman mythology origin.
Derivation: The name Janus comes from the Roman god of gates and transitions, Janus.
Significance: Janus is the god of beginnings, transitions, and duality, often depicted with two faces looking in opposite directions. He has no direct Greek counterpart, as he is uniquely Roman.
Emperor-Inspired Roman Names for Boys
Roman emperors were the rulers of the Roman Empire, holding supreme authority over its vast territories and shaping the course of history through their leadership, military conquests, and political reforms.
The role of emperor began with Augustus in 27 BCE, marking the transition from the Roman Republic to the Roman Empire, and ended with Romulus Augustulus, marking the fall of the Western Roman Empire.
It’s worth noting that the Eastern Roman Empire, known as the Byzantine Empire, continued for nearly a thousand years after the fall of the West – until 1453 CE, when Constantinople fell to the Ottoman Turks.
With that said, let’s take a look at some unique Roman names for boys inspired by Roman emperors.
10. Augustus
Origin: Augustus is of Latin origin.
Derivation: The name Augustus is derived from the Latin word augustus, meaning “great” or “venerable.” It was a title given to Roman emperors.
Significance: The first Roman emperor, Augustus (63 BCE–14 CE), originally named Octavian, established the Roman Empire after the fall of the Roman Republic. He ushered in a long period of peace known as the Pax Romana and significantly expanded the empire’s territories.
9. Tiberius
Origin: Tiberius is of Latin origin.
Derivation: The name Tiberius is derived from the Tiber River in Rome, named after the Roman emperor Tiberius.
Significance: The stepson and successor of Augustus, Tiberius (42 BCE–37 CE) was a capable but unpopular ruler. His reign was marked by political intrigue and increasing isolation in his later years, eventually retreating to the island of Capri.
8. Trajan
Origin: Trajan is of Latin origin.
Derivation: The name Trajan comes from the Roman emperor Trajanus, who ruled from 98 to 117 AD.
Significance: Known for his military conquests and as one of the “Five Good Emperors,” Trajan (53–117 CE) expanded the Roman Empire to its greatest territorial extent, including the conquest of Dacia (modern-day Romania). He was celebrated for his building projects and the welfare of Roman citizens.
7. Claudius
Origin: Claudius is of Latin origin.
Derivation: The name Claudius is derived from the Roman family name Claudius, meaning “lame” or “crippled.”
Significance: Despite being considered an unlikely emperor due to his physical disabilities, Claudius (10 BCE–54 CE) proved to be an effective ruler. His reign saw the conquest of Britain and significant administrative reforms, but it was marred by palace intrigues.
6. Vespasian
Origin: Vespasian is of Latin origin.
Derivation: The name Vespasian comes from the Roman emperor Titus Flavius Vespasianus, meaning “of the wasps.”
Significance: The founder of the Flavian dynasty, Vespasian (9–79 CE) restored stability to Rome after the chaos of Nero’s rule and the Year of the Four Emperors. He is best known for beginning the construction of the Colosseum and his pragmatic governance.
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5. Hadrian
Origin: Hadrian is of Latin origin.
Derivation: The name Hadrian is derived from the Roman emperor Publius Aelius Hadrianus, meaning “from Hadria.”
Significance: A skilled administrator and one of the “Five Good Emperors,” Hadrian (76–138 CE) is best known for consolidating and strengthening the empire’s borders, including building Hadrian’s Wall in Britain. He promoted art, architecture, and cultural integration across the empire.
4. Nero
Origin: Nero is of Latin origin.
Derivation: The name Nero is derived from the Roman emperor Nero Claudius Caesar, possibly meaning “strong” or “vigorous.”
Significance: Known for his eccentric and often tyrannical reign, Nero (37–68 CE) is infamous for his extravagance, persecution of Christians, and for allegedly “fiddling while Rome burned” during the Great Fire of 64 CE. His death marked the end of the Julio-Claudian dynasty.
3. Antonius
Origin: Antonius is of Latin origin.
Derivation: The name Antonius is the Roman family name from which Anthony is derived. Its exact meaning is unknown.
Significance: A peaceful and stable ruler, Antoninus Pius (86–161 CE) presided over a period of prosperity and internal peace in the empire. His reign was notable for a lack of military conflict and his commitment to law and order, earning him the title “Pius.”
2. Aurelius
Origin: Aurelius is of Latin origin.
Derivation: The name Aurelius comes from the Latin word aureus, meaning “golden.”
Significance: A philosopher-emperor and the last of the “Five Good Emperors,” Marcus Aurelius (121–180 CE) is remembered for his Stoic writings, notably Meditations, and for defending the empire against numerous invasions. His death marked the end of the Pax Romana.
1. Constantine
Origin: Constantine is of Latin origin.
Derivation: The name Constantine is derived from the Latin word constans, meaning “steadfast” or “constant.”
Significance: Constantine (272–337 CE) was the first Roman emperor to convert to Christianity, and he significantly shaped the future of the Roman Empire by establishing Constantinople (modern-day Istanbul) as the new capital. His reign saw the legalization of Christianity through the Edict of Milan in 313 CE.
Famous & Influential Roman Names for Boys
Roman history is filled with influential figures beyond its emperors, many of whom played pivotal roles in shaping the Republic, the Empire, and the cultural legacy of Rome, which we continue to celebrate today.
One of the most famous figures is Julius Caesar, a military general, statesman, and pivotal figure in the transformation of Rome from a republic to an empire. And a name everyone should recognize right away.
Let’s not forget about Virgil, one of Rome’s greatest poets who had a lasting influence on Roman culture and literature with his poem The Aeneid, which would become known as Rome’s great national epic.
Let’s take a look at some of our favorite Roman names for boys inspired by influential Roman figures.
10. Julius
Origin: Julius is of Latin origin.
Derivation: The name Julius is derived from the Roman family name Julius, possibly meaning “downy-bearded” or “youthful.”
Significance: A military general and statesman, Julius Caesar played a crucial role in the demise of the Roman Republic and the rise of the Roman Empire. His conquests in Gaul and his dictatorship led to his assassination, which triggered a civil war that ultimately ended the Republic.
9. Crassus
Origin: Crassus is of Latin origin.
Derivation: The name Crassus comes from the Latin word crassus, meaning “thick” or “fat.”
Significance: One of Rome’s wealthiest men and a member of the First Triumvirate alongside Julius Caesar and Pompey, Crassus is known for his role in defeating the Spartacus-led slave revolt. He died in a failed campaign against the Parthians, marking a major setback for Roman expansion in the east.
8. Antony
Origin: Antony is of Latin origin.
Derivation: Antony is derived from the Roman family name Antonius.
Significance: A Roman politician and general, Mark Antony was a loyal supporter of Julius Caesar and later formed the Second Triumvirate with Octavian and Lepidus. His romantic and political alliance with Cleopatra and subsequent conflict with Octavian led to his defeat at the Battle of Actium and his eventual suicide.
7. Agrippa
Origin: Agrippa is of Latin origin.
Derivation: The name Agrippa is of uncertain origin but was a prominent Roman family name.
Significance: A close friend and military commander under Augustus, Agrippa was instrumental in many of Augustus’ military victories, including the naval Battle of Actium. He also oversaw several major building projects in Rome, including the original Pantheon.
6. Lucretius
Origin: Lucretius is of Latin origin.
Derivation: The name Lucretius comes from the Latin family name Lucretius, which may mean “profit” or “wealth.”
Significance: A Roman poet and philosopher, Lucretius is best known for his epic poem De Rerum Natura (On the Nature of Things), which expounded Epicurean philosophy. His work explored topics like the nature of the universe, atomic theory, and the pursuit of happiness through reason.
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5. Cicero
Origin: Cicero is of Latin origin.
Derivation: The name Cicero comes from the Latin cicer, meaning “chickpea” or “pea.”
Significance: A renowned Roman statesman, orator, and philosopher, Cicero was a champion of the Republic and a critic of Julius Caesar’s rise to power. His writings on rhetoric, law, and philosophy greatly influenced Western thought. He was executed during the proscriptions of the Second Triumvirate.
4. Seneca
Origin: Seneca is of Latin origin.
Derivation: The name Seneca is derived from the Roman philosopher and statesman Lucius Annaeus Seneca.
Significance: A Stoic philosopher, statesman, and tutor to the emperor Nero, Seneca was one of Rome’s most famous intellectuals. His philosophical works on ethics, morality, and human nature have had a lasting influence. He was forced to commit suicide after being implicated in a conspiracy against Nero.
3. Gaius
Origin: Gaius is of Latin origin.
Derivation: The name Gaius comes from the Latin word gaudere, meaning “to rejoice.”
Significance: A prominent Roman jurist, Gaius is known for his work Institutiones, which provided a foundational legal text used in Roman law and later influenced the development of European legal systems. His writings offered insight into Roman legal principles, including property, contracts, and civil law.
2. Ulpian
Origin: Ulpian is of Latin origin.
Derivation: The name Ulpian is derived from the Roman jurist Domitius Ulpianus.
Significance: A Roman jurist and legal scholar, Ulpian was one of the most influential figures in the development of Roman law. His writings on law were highly regarded, and portions of his work were incorporated into the Digest of Emperor Justinian, shaping later legal traditions.
1. Paulus
Origin: Paulus is of Latin origin.
Derivation: The name Paulus is derived from the Latin paulus, meaning “small” or “humble.”
Significance: Another prominent Roman jurist, Paulus’ legal opinions and writings were widely cited in Roman law. Like Ulpian, his works were included in Justinian’s Digest, and his contributions to legal thought helped form the basis of Roman legal jurisprudence for centuries to come.
Roman Names for Boys Inspired By ‘Gladiator’ (2000)
Gladiator (2000), directed by Ridley Scott, is a historical epic set during the height of the Roman Empire. The film follows the intense journey of a Roman general betrayed by an ambitious and corrupt emperor.
It has become one of the most iconic and celebrated films of the 21st century, and received widespread critical acclaim for Russell Crowe’s performance, which earned him the Academy Award for Best Actor.
The film won four other Oscars, including Best Picture, Best Costume Design, Best Sound, and Best Visual Effects, and revived interest in the sword-and-sandal genre that had been dormant for decades.
Let’s take a look at some Roman names for boys that were featured in the Roman film Gladiator.
10. Maximus
Origin: Maximus is of Latin origin.
Derivation: The name Maximus comes from the Latin word maximus, meaning “greatest.”
Significance: Played by Russell Crowe, Maximus Decimus Meridius is the film’s protagonist, a Roman general betrayed by the emperor’s son and forced into slavery. Seeking vengeance, he rises as a gladiator and confronts the corrupt emperor Commodus. Crowe’s performance earned him an Academy Award for Best Actor.
9. Commodus
Origin: Commodus is of Latin origin.
Derivation: The name Commodus comes from the Latin word commodus, meaning “convenient” or “suitable.”
Significance: Played by Joaquin Phoenix, Commodus is the main antagonist, the power-hungry and insecure son of Emperor Marcus Aurelius. After murdering his father, he seizes the throne, only to face the challenge of Maximus, whom he fears and resents.
8. Proximo
Origin: Proximo is of Latin origin.
Derivation: The name Proximo is derived from the Latin proximus, meaning “next” or “nearest.”
Significance: Played by Oliver Reed, Proximo is a former gladiator turned trainer who buys Maximus and helps him ascend in the arena. Reed passed away during the film’s production, and some of his scenes were completed using CGI.
7. Gracchus
Origin: Gracchus is of Latin origin.
Derivation: The name Gracchus is derived from a famous Roman family name. Its exact meaning is unknown.
Significance: Played by Derek Jacobi, Senator Gracchus is a political opponent of Commodus, advocating for the restoration of the Roman Republic. He represents the moral opposition to Commodus’ tyranny in the Senate.
6. Juba
Origin: Juba is of Berber and Roman origin.
Derivation: The name Juba was borne by ancient kings of Numidia and Mauritania.
Significance: Played by Djimon Hounsou, Juba is a fellow gladiator and close friend of Maximus. A former African warrior, he supports Maximus in his quest for revenge and dreams of returning to his family.
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5. Hagen
Origin: Hagen is of Germanic and Scandinavian origin.
Derivation: The name Hagen is derived from Old Norse hagi, meaning “enclosure” or “protected place.”
Significance: Played by Ralf Möller, Hagen is a Germanic gladiator who befriends Maximus. Despite his imposing size and brute strength, he forms a strong bond with Maximus and fights alongside him in the arena.
4. Falco
Origin: Falco is of Latin origin.
Derivation: The name Falco comes from the Latin word falco, meaning “falcon.”
Significance: Played by David Schofield, Falco is a senator who aligns himself with Commodus for personal gain. He represents the corrupt political forces supporting Commodus’ rule.
3. Quintus
Origin: Quintus is of Latin origin.
Derivation: The name Quintus is derived from the Latin word quintus, meaning “fifth.”
Significance: Played by Tomas Arana, Quintus is a Roman general and former ally of Maximus who betrays him under Commodus’ command. He later redeems himself by aiding Maximus in his final confrontation with Commodus.
2. Lucius
Origin: Lucius is of Latin origin.
Derivation: The name Lucius comes from the Latin word lux, meaning “light.”
Significance: Played by Spencer Treat Clark, Lucius Verus is the young son of Commodus’ sister, Lucilla. He becomes a pawn in the power struggles between his family and Maximus, representing the future of Rome.
1. Cassius
Origin: Cassius is of Latin origin.
Derivation: The name Cassius comes from the Roman family name Cassius, possibly meaning “hollow.”
Significance: Played by David Hemmings, Cassius is the master of ceremonies for the gladiatorial games. His role is to introduce the events in the arena with dramatic flair, adding to the spectacle of the gladiator battles.
Are You Bold Enough to Consider One of These Roman Names for Boys?
Roman names for boys carry a sense of history, strength, and cultural significance rooted in the legacy of one of the most powerful empires of all time. But are you bold enough to give your son a Roman name?
Names like Maximus, meaning “greatest,” and Julius, famously associated with Julius Caesar, are both bold and enduring, while names like Marcus and Lucius were common among Roman citizens back then.
Whether parents are drawn to their strong meanings, historical origins, or classic style, Roman names for boys will always be a timeless option that can help parents bridge the past and the present with a name.
YOU MAY ALSO LIKE: Don’t Forget to Check Out Our Baby Name Generator for More Baby Name Ideas!
But that doesn’t mean you have to fall in love with Roman names for boys. If you don’t think it’ll fit your future son, then take a look at our Mamas Uncut blog for thousands of more unique baby name ideas!
Mamas Uncut is THE online place for moms. We cover the latest about motherhood, parenting, and entertainment as well – all with a mom-focused twist. So if you're looking for parenting advice from real parents, we have plenty of it, all for moms from moms, and also experts. Because, at the end of the day, our mission is focused solely on empowering moms and moms-to-be with the knowledge and answers they’re looking for in one safe space.
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