40 Charming & Handsome Latin Boy Names for Your Future Son

The Latin language originated in the region of Latium in central Italy, which includes the city of Rome. It was the language of the ancient Romans and became the dominant language of the Roman Empire. 

But as the Roman Empire expanded, the Latin language began to spread across Europe. 

Over time, local dialects began to develop into distinct languages of their own. Those languages are now known as Romance languages – which includes Spanish, French, Italian, Portuguese, and Romanian. 

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With its deep and diverse history, it’s no surprise to see so many people from so many different countries being given names with Latin origins – even though the Latin language is technically a dead language. 

In fact, many of you reading this blog post were likely given a Latin name at birth. 

Lucas, Leo, Anthony, Julian, Adrian, Christian, Dominic… These are all Latin boy names that are still used today – and Lucas and Leo, in particular, are among the top 20 most popular names in the US. 

Latin Boy Names With Latin Origins

Today, Latin boy names are celebrated for their historical depth, classical elegance, and timeless appeal – acting as a living testament to the enduring influence of the Latin language and the Roman civilization. 

They echo through hundreds of generations and continue to shape naming traditions across the globe. 

Whether you feel inspired by Latin history or simply like the sound that Latin boy names offer, you can never go wrong with giving your newborn son a Latin name with a deep and meaningful translation. 

If that sounds like you, here are some of our personal favorite Latin boy names with Latin origins. 

10. Gaius 

Origin: Latin

Derivation: The name “Gaius” is derived from the Latin word “gaudere,” which means “to rejoice” or “to be glad.”

Meaning: Rejoice, Happy, To Be Glad

Significance: It was a common praenomen in ancient Rome, borne by several notable figures, including Gaius Julius Caesar, the famous Roman general and dictator.

9. Aurelius

Origin: Latin

Derivation: The name “Aurelius” is derived from the Latin word “aureus,” meaning “golden” or “gilded.” 

Meaning: Golden, Gilded

Significance: Historically, Aurelius was a Roman family name, notably borne by Marcus Aurelius, a Roman emperor and philosopher.

8. Aemilius 

Origin: Latin

Derivation: The name “Aemilius” is derived from the Latin family name “Aemilius,” which is believed to come from the Latin word “aemulus,” meaning “rival” or “eager.”

Meaning: Rival, Industrious, Eager

Significance: The Aemilius family was one of the prominent patrician families in ancient Rome, with several notable members, including Lucius Aemilius Paullus Macedonicus, a Roman general and consul.

7. Cassius 

Origin: Latin

Derivation: The name “Cassius” is derived from the Latin family name “Cassius,” which possibly comes from the Latin word “cassus,” meaning “empty” or “vain.”

Meaning: Vain, Hollow, Empty

Significance: Cassius was a prominent Roman family name, notably borne by Gaius Cassius Longinus, one of the leaders in the conspiracy to assassinate Julius Caesar.

6. Crispus 

Origin: Latin

Derivation: The name “Crispus” is derived from the Latin word “crispus,” meaning “curly-haired.”

Meaning: Curly-Haired

Significance: It was a common Roman cognomen, notably borne by Flavius Julius Crispus, the eldest son of Constantine the Great.

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5. Lucius 

Origin: Latin

Derivation: The name “Lucius” is derived from the Latin word “lux,” meaning “light.”

Meaning: Light, Illumination

Significance: It was a common praenomen in ancient Rome, borne by several notable figures, including Lucius Junius Brutus, one of the founders of the Roman Republic.

4. Maximus 

Origin: Latin

Derivation: The name “Maximus” was derived from the Latin word “maximus,” meaning “greatest.”

Meaning: Greatest, Largest

Significance: It was used as a cognomen in ancient Rome, notably by Maximus Decimus Meridius, a fictional character in the movie “Gladiator.”

3. Romanus 

Origin: Latin

Derivation: The name “Romanus” is derived from the Latin word “Romanus,” meaning “Roman.”

Meaning: Roman, Citizen of Rome

Significance: It signifies a connection to Rome and its culture.

2. Valentinus 

Origin: Latin

Derivation: The name “Valentinus” is derived from the Latin word “valens,” meaning “strong” or “healthy.”

Meaning: Strong, Healthy

Significance: The name is associated with Saint Valentine, a Christian martyr, and is linked to the celebration of Valentine’s Day.

1. Octavius 

Origin: Latin

Derivation: The name “Octavius” is derived from the Latin word “octavus,” meaning “eighth.”

Meaning: Eighth

Significance: It was originally a Roman family name, notably borne by Gaius Octavius, who later became Emperor Augustus, the first Roman emperor.

Latin Boy Names Inspired by Roman Emperors

Roman emperors were the supreme rulers of the Roman Empire, a civilization that stood as one of the most powerful and influential empires in world history. It might not exist anymore, but the legend lives on. 

From the establishment of the imperial system by Augustus in 27 BCE to the fall of the Western Roman Empire in 476 CE, these emperors played pivotal roles in shaping the course of Western civilization.

Throughout history, their names – often symbolic of their virtues or achievements – became synonymous with leadership, strength, and wisdom, making them popular choices for parents looking for baby names.

If you’re one of those parents, here are some Latin boy names inspired by popular Roman emperors. 

10. Julius

Origin: Latin

Derivation: The name Julius is derived from the Latin “Julius,” which is believed to originate from the Greek “Ioulos,” meaning “downy-bearded” or “youthful.” Another possible derivation is from the Latin word “Iovilius,” meaning “descended from Jove (Jupiter).”

Meaning: Youthful, Downy-Bearded, From Jupiter

Roman Emperor: Gaius Julius Caesar was a pivotal figure in Roman history, serving as a general, statesman, and dictator. He played a critical role in the events that led to the demise of the Roman Republic and the rise of the Roman Empire. 

9. Augustus

Origin: Latin

Derivation: The name Augustus comes from the Latin word “augustus,” which means “majestic,” “venerable,” or “the increaser.” It was derived from “augere,” meaning “to increase.”

Meaning: Majestic, Venerable, Great

Roman Emperor: Gaius Octavius Thurinus, known as Octavian before becoming emperor, was the founder of the Roman Empire and its first Emperor, ruling from 27 BC until his death in AD 14. He was the adopted son of Julius Caesar and played a crucial role in the transformation of Rome from a republic to an empire.

8. Tiberius 

Origin: Latin

Derivation: The name Tiberius is derived from the Latin name “Tiberius,” which is related to the Tiber River in Rome. 

Meaning: Of the Tiber, From the Tiber

Roman Emperor: Tiberius Caesar Augustus, originally Tiberius Claudius Nero, was the second Roman Emperor, ruling from AD 14 to AD 37. He was the stepson of Augustus and was a capable military leader before becoming emperor. Tiberius’s reign was marked by stability and consolidation of the empire’s borders.

7. Vespasian 

Origin: Latin

Derivation: The name Vespasian is derived from the Latin “Vespasianus,” which is believed to be linked to the family name “Vespasii,” a family of Sabine origin.

Meaning: Evening, Wasp

Roman Emperor: Titus Flavius Vespasianus, known as Vespasian, was the ninth Roman Emperor, ruling from AD 69 to AD 79. He founded the Flavian dynasty after the tumultuous Year of the Four Emperors. Vespasian was a seasoned military commander before becoming emperor, notably leading the Roman forces during the Jewish revolt. 

6. Trajan

Origin: Latin

Derivation: The name Trajan is derived from the Latin name “Traianus,” which was a family name of Roman origin.

Meaning: Warrior

Roman Emperor: Marcus Ulpius Traianus, known as Trajan, was the 13th Roman Emperor, ruling from AD 98 to AD 117. Trajan is remembered as one of the greatest Roman emperors, noted for his military conquests and administrative achievements. Under his rule, the Roman Empire reached its maximum territorial extent. 

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5. Hadrian 

Origin: Latin

Derivation: The name Hadrian is derived from the Latin “Hadrianus,” which means “of Hadria” or “from Hadria.” Hadria (or Adria) was a town in Northern Italy, and the name signifies someone who came from this place.

Meaning: From Hadria, Dark-Haired

Roman Emperor: Publius Aelius Hadrianus, known as Hadrian, was the 14th Roman Emperor, ruling from AD 117 to AD 138. Hadrian is best known for his extensive building projects and efforts to consolidate and fortify the empire’s borders rather than expand them. He is famous for constructing Hadrian’s Wall in Britain, which marked the northern limit of Roman territory. 

4. Antoninus 

Origin: Latin

Derivation: The name Antoninus is derived from the Roman family name “Antonius,” which was a prominent gens (clan) in ancient Rome.

Meaning: Priceless, Highly Praiseworthy

Roman Emperor: Titus Aurelius Fulvus Boionius Arrius Antoninus, known as Antoninus Pius, was the 15th Roman Emperor, ruling from AD 138 to AD 161. He is known for his long and peaceful reign, which was marked by stability and prosperity. Antoninus Pius was adopted by his predecessor, Hadrian, and continued many of Hadrian’s policies. 

3. Pertinax

Origin: Latin

Derivation: The name Pertinax comes from the Latin word “pertinax,” meaning “persistent” or “steadfast.”

Meaning: Persistent, Steadfast

Roman Emperor: Publius Helvius Pertinax, known as Pertinax, was a Roman Emperor who ruled for a brief period in AD 193. His reign followed the assassination of Emperor Commodus, marking the beginning of a turbulent year known as the Year of the Five Emperors. Pertinax was a respected military officer and administrator before becoming emperor.

2. Constantine

Origin: Latin

Derivation: The name Constantine comes from the Latin name “Constantinus,” which is derived from “constans,” meaning “constant” or “steadfast.”

Meaning: Constant, Steadfast

Roman Emperor: Flavius Valerius Aurelius Constantinus, known as Constantine the Great, was a Roman Emperor who ruled from AD 306 to AD 337. He was the first Roman emperor to convert to Christianity. His reign marked the beginning of the transition of Christianity to the dominant religion in the Roman Empire. 

1. Valerian

Origin: Latin

Derivation: The name Valerian comes from the Latin name “Valerianus,” which is derived from “valere,” meaning “to be strong” or “to be healthy.”

Meaning: Strong, Healthy

Roman Emperor: Publius Licinius Valerianus, known as Valerian, was a Roman Emperor who ruled from AD 253 to AD 260. Valerian is known for his persecution of Christians. He issued edicts in AD 257 and AD 258 that targeted Christian leaders and communities, leading to widespread persecution.

Latin Boy Names Inspired by Roman Mythology

Roman mythology, which was influenced heavily by Greek mythology, features a diverse array of gods, goddesses, and legendary characters who personify various aspects of life, nature, and the cosmos. 

These mythological figures were not only central to religious worship but also to the cultural and artistic expressions of ancient Rome – which explains why their names are so popular in the modern world today. 

Today, Latin boy names inspired by Roman mythology offer a way to honor the rich legacy of the ancient Romans, connecting the modern world with the mythic heritage of one of the most influential civilizations. 

With that said, let’s take a look at some of the most popular latin boy names from Roman mythology. 

10. Jupiter

Origin: Latin

Derivation: The name Jupiter is derived from the Latin words “Iuppiter,” “Iovis,” and “pater,” which mean “father Jove.” The name can be broken down into “Iou” (an earlier form of “Jove,” related to the Indo-European deity “Dyēus”) and “pater” (father), signifying “sky father.”

Meaning: Father of the Gods, Sky Father

Roman Mythology: Jupiter was the king of the gods in Roman mythology, analogous to the Greek god Zeus. He was the god of the sky and thunder and was considered the protector of the Roman state. He wielded a thunderbolt and was associated with law, order, and justice.

9. Neptune

Origin: Latin

Derivation: The name Neptune is derived from the Latin “Neptunus.” The etymology of “Neptunus” is somewhat obscure, but it is believed to be related to the Proto-Indo-European root *nebh-, which means “wet” or “damp.”

Meaning: Water, Wet, Damp

Roman Mythology: Neptune was the god of the sea, freshwater, and horses in Roman mythology. He is analogous to the Greek god Poseidon. As one of the major deities, Neptune was often depicted with a trident, a three-pronged spear, which he used to control the waters and cause storms and earthquakes. 

8. Mars

Origin: Latin

Derivation: The name Mars is derived from the Latin “Mars” or “Mavors.” The etymology of “Mars” is not entirely clear, but it may be connected to the Proto-Indo-European root *Māwort- or *Mārs, which means “to gleam” or “to shine.”

Meaning: To Gleam, To Shine, War

Roman Mythology: Mars was the Roman god of war and one of the most important deities in the Roman pantheon. He was the son of Jupiter and Juno and was second only to Jupiter in importance. Mars was considered the father of Romulus and Remus, the legendary founders of Rome, making him a central figure in Roman mythology and culture.

7. Vulcan

Origin: Latin

Derivation: The name Vulcan is derived from the Latin “Vulcanus” or “Volcanus.” The etymology is linked to the Latin word “volcanus,” which is related to fire and volcanoes. 

Meaning: Fire, Volcanoes

Roman Mythology: Vulcan was the Roman god of fire, metalworking, and the forge. He was the son of Jupiter and Juno and was often depicted as a blacksmith working with his hammer and anvil. Vulcan was responsible for crafting weapons and armor for the gods and heroes, showcasing his skill and mastery in metallurgy. 

6. Mercury

Origin: Latin

Derivation: The name Mercury is derived from the Latin “Mercurius.” The name is associated with the Latin word “merx,” meaning “merchandise.”

Meaning: Trade, Commerce, Communication

Roman Mythology: Mercury was the Roman god of commerce, financial gain, communication, travelers, boundaries, luck, trickery, and thieves. He was analogous to the Greek god Hermes. Mercury was often depicted with winged sandals and a winged hat, symbolizing his role as a messenger of the gods and his ability to move swiftly.

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5. Bacchus

Origin: Latin, Greek

Derivation: The name Bacchus is derived from the Greek “Bakkhos” (Βάκχος), which was an epithet for the Greek god Dionysus. The term “Bacchus” itself is thought to come from the Greek word “bakcheia,” meaning “a frenzy” or “ecstatic celebration.”

Meaning: Wine, Revelry, Celebration

Roman Mythology: Bacchus was the Roman god of wine, revelry, and ecstatic festivities, analogous to the Greek god Dionysus. He was the son of Jupiter (Zeus) and Semele, a mortal woman. Bacchus was often depicted as a youthful, effeminate figure, crowned with ivy and grapes, and holding a thyrsus (a staff topped with a pinecone). 

4. Pluto

Origin: Latin

Derivation: The name Pluto is derived from the Latin “Pluto,” which itself comes from the Greek “Plouton” (Πλούτων). The Greek term is related to “ploutos,” meaning “wealth.”

Meaning: Wealth

Roman Mythology: Pluto was the Roman god of the underworld and wealth, analogous to the Greek god Hades. He was the brother of Jupiter (Zeus) and Neptune (Poseidon), ruling over the realm of the dead. Pluto was often depicted as a stern and somber figure, holding a scepter or a key, symbolizing his control over the gates of the underworld.

3. Apollo

Origin: Latin, Greek

Derivation: The etymology of “Apollo” is uncertain, but it is thought to derive from the Greek “Apollon” (Ἀπόλλων). Some theories suggest it may be related to the Greek word “apollymi” (ἀπόλλυμι), meaning “to destroy,”

Meaning: Light, Music, Poetry, Healing, Prophecy

Roman Mythology: pollo was one of the few deities whose name and attributes were directly adopted from Greek mythology into Roman religion without change. He was the god of many things, including the sun, music, poetry, healing, prophecy, and archery. Apollo was the son of Jupiter (Zeus) and Leto, and the twin brother of Diana (Artemis).

2. Saturn

Origin: Latin

Derivation: The name Saturn is derived from the Latin “Saturnus.” The etymology of “Saturnus” is uncertain, but it may be connected to the Latin word “satus,” meaning “sowing.”

Meaning: Sowing, Seed, Agriculture

Roman Mythology: Saturn was the Roman god of agriculture, wealth, and time. He was often depicted holding a sickle or a scythe, instruments used in harvesting crops. Saturn was considered a god of generation, dissolution, plenty, wealth, agriculture, periodic renewal, and liberation.

1. Quirinus

Origin: Latin

Derivation: The etymology of “Quirinus” is linked to the Latin word “quiris,” meaning “spear,” suggesting a martial aspect. Another possible derivation is from “Quirium,” the early name for the Roman state or assembly, indicating a connection to the Roman people.

Meaning: Spear, Protector, Guardian

Roman Mythology: Quirinus was an ancient Roman god associated with the Roman state and its people. He was originally a Sabine deity and was later incorporated into Roman religion. Quirinus was often depicted as a warrior, highlighting his martial aspects. He was considered one of the Archaic Triad, alongside Jupiter and Mars.

Latin Boy Names Inspired by Latin America

Latin America refers to the regions of the Americas that were colonized by Spain and Portugal, where Spanish and Portuguese (two of the most popular Romance languages) are the dominant languages.

The term “Amérique latine” was first used by the French economist Michel Chevalier in the 1830s.

It grew in popularity during the era of Napoleon III, who sought to assert French influence in the Americas and highlighted the shared Latin heritage between France and countries colonized by Spain and Portugal.

If you’re interested in Latin boy names inspired by Latin American culture, we’ve got a few you might like!

10. Santiago

Origin: Spanish

Derivation: The name Santiago is derived from the Spanish word for Saint James (“Sant Iago”), where “Sant” means “Saint” and “Iago” is a form of James. It ultimately traces back to the Hebrew name Yaakov (Jacob).

Meaning: Saint James, Supplanter, Follower

9. Mateo

Origin: Spanish, Hebrew

Derivation: The name Mateo is derived from the Hebrew name Mattityahu, which means “gift of Yahweh.”

Meaning: Gift of God

8. Emilio

Origin: Latino, Spanish

Derivation: The name Emilio comes from the Roman family name Aemilius, which was derived from the Latin word “aemulus,” meaning “rival” or “eager.”

Meaning: Industrious, Rival

7. Diego

Origin: Spanish

Derivation: The name Diego is possibly derived from the Hebrew name Yaakov (Jacob) through the Latin Iacobus and later the Spanish form Iago. Another theory is that it comes from the Latin name Didacus.

Meaning: Supplanter, Teacher, Follower

6. Alejandro

Origin: Spanish, Greek

Derivation: The name Alejandro is derived from the Greek name Alexandros, composed of “alexein” (to defend) and “aner” (man).

Meaning: Defender of Men

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5. Carlos

Origin: Spanish, Germanic

Derivation: The name Carlos is derived from the Germanic name Karl, which means “man” or “free man.”

Meaning: Free Man

4. Eduardo

Origin: Spanish, English

Derivation: The name Eduardo is derived from the Old English name Eadweard, composed of “ead” (wealth, fortune) and “weard” (guardian, protector).

Meaning: Wealthy Guardian, Guardian of Wealth

3. Pablo

Origin: Latin, Spanish

Derivation: The name Pablo is derived from the Latin name Paulus, which means “small” or “humble.”

Meaning: Humble, Small

2. Fernando 

Origin: Spanish, Germanic

Derivation: The name Fernando is derived from the Germanic elements “faran” (to journey) and “nand” (brave, daring).

Meaning: Brave Traveler, Adventurous

1. Javier

Origin: Spanish, Basque

Derivation: The name Javier is derived from the Basque place name Etxeberria, which means “new house” or “new home.”

Meaning: New Home

Will Any of These Latin Boy Names Make Your Shortlist?

Latin boy names help carry the legacy of the ancient Roman Empire – a civilization renowned for its contributions to law, culture, architecture, and language (contributions that are still felt to this day).

Whether inspired by Roman emperors, deities from Roman mythology, classical literature, or the spread of the Latin language, Latin boy names often embody virtues such as strength, courage, and intelligence.

Their classic elegance ensures that they remain relevant and respected in any era – providing a stable foundation for your child. And as they grow up, it’ll help define who they are and what they’re destined for. 

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As you navigate this important and once-in-a-lifetime choice, consider the timeless appeal and rich heritage that Latin boy names offer – and if you need more ideas, don’t hesitate to check out our blog!