Latin is an ancient language that originated in the Italian peninsula. Some language experts consider the language “dead,” but quite the contrary. Most European languages are based on Latin and hence the root of many common names. Latin names can be exotic and different. They are very melodic and roll off the tongue in a fluid manner. You may notice an Italian or French flair to them and many can be shortened for adorable nicknames. Read on to see Latin names for boys and their meanings.
15 Recommended Latin Names for Boys
1. Adrian
Meaning: man from Hadria
Another form of this name is Hadrian. Still a very common name, Adrian is actually quite ancient in origin. Hadrians were from a settlement close to the Adriatic Sea. The tribes there have long dispersed, but the name carried on. Those named Adrian are truth seekers, intuitive, and uplifting people.
2. Atticus
Meaning: man from Attica
Attica is close to Greece and men from Attica were given this name to notate where they were from. One notable character in “To Kill a Mockingbird,” was Atticus Finch. Those with the name Atticus are optimistic, popular and happy.
3. Caesar
Meaning: emperor
The origin of this name is not completely known, but could be from the Latin word “caesarians” which meant “head of hair.” The most notable person with this name was Julius Caesar who was a Roman General in the 1st century BC. People with this name are strong willed, independent and successful.
4. Cornelius
Meaning: horn.
This name dates back to the New Testament in the Bible when Cornelius was sent by an angel to find Peter. Cornelius was thought to be the first convert to Christianity. The name can be shortened to Cornel or Connie. There is also another spelling, Cornelis.
5. Cyprian
Meaning: man from Cyprus
The name Cyprian goes all the way back to medieval times. There were several notable people with this name including Saint Cyprian, and Cyprian Ekwensi (an Ethiopian writer).
6. Fidel
Meaning: faithful
This name comes from the Latin term “fidelis.” This term means “always faithful,” or “always loyal.” This is the meaning behind the U.S. Marine motto “Semper Fidelis.” One famous person with this name is Fidel Castro, former president of Cuba. It is said that people with this name tend to be leaders and have powerful personalities.
7. Ignatius
Meaning: ardent
This origins of this name are not completely known, but most likely came from the lost tribe the Etruscans in Italy. There are several Saints with this name. Those with this name are disciplined, like organization, and like large undertakings.
8. Juno
Meaning: young
This is one common latin name for boys. Juno was a Roman Goddess, however the female spelling adds an “a” making the name Juna. Juno is connected to Jupiter and rules the Heavens. People with this name are destined to help humanity and share their wealth with others.
9. Mercury
Meaning: to trade, wages
Mercury was the Roman god of trade. It is also the name of one of the planets in our solar system. Mercury governs communication and is associated with the god Hermes. Another variation is Mercurius. People with this name are said to become good at speaking, communication with others, and outgoing.
10. Maximus
Meaning: greatest
This was one of the third names given to men in ancient Roman times, almost like a title. It was reserved for the very wealthy only. In modern times, the name “Max” is actually very common and popular. Those named Max are ambitious, strong willed and inventive.
11. Nero
Meaning: strong, vigorous, and powerful
Nero is one of the most ancient names appearing long before the birth of Christ. It does not seem to be a very popular name and most likely because of its most notorious namesake, Roman Emporer Nero. He was known for brutality. There are some who choose this name and it is actually associated with wisdom, intuition, and imagination.
12. Quentin
Meaning: fifth
This name was often bestowed on boys that were born in the fifth month of the year. One famous person with this name was Saint Quentin who was martyred for preaching Christianity to Pagans. This name is very popular in Belgium and France. People named Quentin are individualistic, successful and inventive.
13. Rex
Meaning: King
This is the Latin word for a male monarch and not exactly a name. As a matter of fact, it was more of a descriptive word. It came into use as a male name in the 19th century and is now a very popular latin name for boys. One notable person with this name is, Rex Harrison (Actor). Boy’s named Rex tend to be compassionate, patient, and sensitive.
14. Vincent
Meaning: conqueror, to win
Popular in medieval times, this was a popular name for Catholic Saints. One notable bearer of this name is Vincent Van Gogh, the artist. This name can be altered to Vinnie, Vince, and Vicente. People with this name are family oriented, community minded and compassionate.
15. Levi
Meaning: attached
In the Bible, Levi was the third of Leah’s sons. His tribes were known as the Levites in Israel. Levi is a name used largely among Jewish people. It has steadily increased in popularity among English speaking countries. People named Levi are good communicators, optimistic, and creative.
List of Other Recommended Latin Names for Boys:
- Agustin
- Amadeus
- Brutus
- Fabian
- Horus
- Jovanni
- Julius
- Kato
- Magnum
- Mauro
- Remus
- Sextus
- Silas
- Terrence
- Thaddeus
- Tiberius
- Vernus
- Vinson
- Zaniel