300+ Latin Names for Boys (with Meanings and Origins)

Latin names for boys are making a spectacular comeback, and honestly, it’s about time! Picture this: you’re flipping through an old family Bible, tracing your finger along faded ink, when you stumble upon your great-great-grandfather’s name—Aurelius.

That’s exactly what happened to me three years ago, and it sparked an obsession with classical naming that I never saw coming. Trust me, once you dive into the world of Latin names, there’s no going back.

What makes these ancient appellations so irresistible to modern parents? Here’s the thing—Latin names carry a gravitas that transcends trends. They’re sophisticated without being pretentious, strong without being harsh, and timeless without being boring.

Whether you’re drawn to the imperial grandeur of Augustus or the gentle strength of Felix, these names offer something magical: a connection to over two millennia of human history.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore 300+ carefully curated Latin boy names that are perfect for today’s families. From powerful emperor names to virtue-based choices, nature-inspired appellations to rare gems you’ve never heard of, we’ve got everything you need to find that perfect classical name for your little one.

Classic Emperor & Historical Names

These regal names carry the weight of history and the promise of greatness. Each one tells a story of leadership, conquest, and legacy.

• Augustus – “Great, magnificent” – The first Roman emperor’s title, symbolizing honor and authority
• Marcus – “Warlike” – One of Rome’s most beloved praenomens, strong and reliable
• Julius – “Youthful” – From the Julian family line of Caesar, eternally fresh
• Maximus – “Greatest” – Perfect for parents with big dreams for their little one
• Constantine – “Constant, steadfast” – The emperor who changed the world
• Aurelius – “Golden” – Sophisticated and radiant, like the philosopher emperor
• Tiberius – “Of the Tiber river” – Connected to Rome’s sacred waterway
• Antonius – “Priceless” – Mark Antony’s legacy lives on
• Lucius – “Light” – Illuminating and hopeful
• Gaius – “Rejoice” – A name that celebrates joy
• Brutus – “Heavy, dull” – Historically complex but undeniably powerful
• Cassius – “Empty, vain” – Despite its meaning, historically significant
• Claudius – “Lame” – The emperor who conquered Britain
• Drusus – “Strong” – Military might personified
• Flavius – “Yellow, blonde” – Golden-haired and distinguished
• Hadrian – “From Hadria” – The wall-builder emperor
• Honorius – “Honor” – Dignity and respect embodied
• Justinian – “Just” – The great lawgiver’s legacy
• Marcellus – “Young warrior” – Youthful strength and valor
• Octavius – “Eighth” – Unique numerical significance
• Septimus – “Seventh” – Perfect for a seventh child or July baby
• Trajan – “To cross over” – The emperor of expansion
• Valerius – “Strong, healthy” – Vitality and vigor
• Maximilian – “Greatest” – Augustus meets modern appeal
• Cornelius – “Horn” – Strong and traditional
• Fabius – “Bean grower” – Humble origins, great achievements
• Crassus – “Thick, dense” – The wealthy triumvir
• Pompey – “Five” – The great general’s shortened name
• Scipio – “Staff, walking stick” – The conqueror of Carthage
• Sulla – “Gull” – The dictator who reformed Rome
• Cicero – “Chickpea” – The greatest orator of Rome
• Pliny – “Full” – The naturalist and writer
• Tacitus – “Silent” – The historian who spoke truth
• Seneca – “Old” – Wisdom and philosophy
• Ovid – “Sheep” – The poet of transformation
• Virgil – “Flourishing” – Epic poetry personified
• Horace – “Time” – The lyric poet’s enduring appeal
• Juvenal – “Young” – Satirical wit and insight
• Martial – “Of Mars” – Warlike but poetic
• Catullus – “Puppy” – Passionate and lyrical
• Propertius – “Property” – Elegiac poetry mastery
• Tibullus – “Little Tiber” – Gentle flowing verse
• Lucretius – “Gain, profit” – Philosophical poetry
• Ennius – “Yearly” – The father of Roman poetry
• Terence – “Smooth” – Comic genius
• Plautus – “Flat-footed” – Comedy that still makes us laugh
• Cato – “Wise” – Stoic virtue incarnate
• Livy – “Bluish” – Historical narrative mastery
• Sallust – “Healthy” – Political insight through history
• Quintilian – “Fifth” – The master of rhetoric

After exploring these imperial names, you might want to consider pairing them with equally strong choices from our collection of traditional boy names to create the perfect classical combination.

Virtue & Character Names

These names celebrate the qualities we hope to instill in our children—courage, wisdom, kindness, and strength of character.

• Felix – “Happy, fortunate” – Perfect for a joyful child who brings luck
• Victor – “Conqueror” – Strength and determination personified
• Clement – “Merciful, gentle” – Beautiful meaning for a kind soul
• Pius – “Pious, devout” – Spiritual dedication and reverence
• Noble – “Distinguished” – Born to greatness
• Justus – “Just, righteous” – Moral clarity and fairness
• Fortunatus – “Lucky” – Blessed with good fortune
• Benevolus – “Kind, well-wishing” – Goodness of heart
• Pacificus – “Peaceful” – Harmony and tranquility
• Veritas – “Truth” – Honesty and authenticity
• Prudentius – “Prudent” – Wise decision-making
• Constantius – “Constant” – Reliability and steadfastness
• Fidelis – “Faithful” – Loyalty and trustworthiness
• Libertas – “Freedom” – Independence and liberty
• Caritas – “Charity” – Love and compassion
• Spes – “Hope” – Optimism and future promise
• Concordius – “Harmony” – Unity and agreement
• Severus – “Stern, serious” – Discipline and gravity
• Modestus – “Modest” – Humility and grace
• Temperantius – “Temperate” – Balance and self-control
• Fortis – “Strong, brave” – Physical and moral courage
• Sapiens – “Wise” – Intelligence and understanding
• Veritateus – “Truthful” – Honest and genuine
• Bonus – “Good” – Simple, pure goodness
• Dignitas – “Dignity” – Honor and respect
• Magnificus – “Magnificent” – Grandeur and splendor
• Gloriosus – “Glorious” – Honor and fame
• Virtuosus – “Virtuous” – Moral excellence
• Sanctus – “Holy, sacred” – Divine connection
• Benedictus – “Blessed” – Divine favor and grace
• Gratus – “Grateful” – Appreciation and thankfulness
• Amicus – “Friend” – Companionship and loyalty
• Dulcis – “Sweet” – Gentle and pleasant nature
• Candidus – “White, pure” – Innocence and clarity
• Sinceres – “Sincere” – Genuine and heartfelt
• Honestus – “Honest” – Integrity and truthfulness
• Laudabilis – “Praiseworthy” – Deserving of admiration
• Probitas – “Integrity” – Moral uprightness
• Rectus – “Right, correct” – Moral straightness
• Solidus – “Solid, reliable” – Dependability
• Stabilis – “Stable” – Consistency and security
• Validus – “Strong, powerful” – Mighty and capable
• Vigens – “Vigorous” – Energy and vitality
• Vivus – “Alive, lively” – Life force and spirit
• Clarus – “Clear, bright” – Clarity and brilliance
• Illustris – “Illustrious” – Fame and distinction
• Memorabilis – “Memorable” – Unforgettable impact
• Mirabilis – “Wonderful” – Amazing and marvelous
• Admirabilis – “Admirable” – Worthy of respect
• Venerabilis – “Venerable” – Deserving reverence

These virtue names pair beautifully with choices from our strong boy names collection for parents seeking names with both moral weight and powerful sound.

Nature & Element Names

Drawing inspiration from the natural world, these names connect your child to the earth, sky, and all living things.

• Silvanus – “Of the forest” – Perfect for nature-loving families
• Leo – “Lion” – Short, strong, and universally loved
• Florian – “Flowering” – Celebrating growth and beauty
• Aquilus – “Eagle” – Soaring majesty and keen sight
• Ursus – “Bear” – Strength and protection
• Lupus – “Wolf” – Pack loyalty and wildness
• Taurus – “Bull” – Power and determination
• Equus – “Horse” – Freedom and nobility
• Corvus – “Raven” – Intelligence and mystery
• Falco – “Falcon” – Speed and precision
• Ardentius – “Burning” – Passionate fire
• Flammeus – “Fiery” – Intense and bright
• Ignatius – “Fire” – Inner flame and spirit
• Solaris – “Of the sun” – Radiant and warm
• Lunaris – “Of the moon” – Mysterious and gentle
• Stellaris – “Of the stars” – Celestial wonder
• Montanus – “Of the mountains” – Steadfast and tall
• Nemorensis – “Of the grove” – Peaceful woodland
• Rivus – “Stream” – Flowing and continuous
• Ventus – “Wind” – Free and ever-moving
• Terra – “Earth” – Grounded and stable
• Maris – “Of the sea” – Deep and boundless
• Campus – “Field” – Open and fertile
• Silva – “Forest” – Dense and protective
• Fons – “Spring, fountain” – Source of life
• Lapis – “Stone” – Enduring and solid
• Metallum – “Metal” – Strong and refined
• Crystallinus – “Crystal” – Clear and precious
• Aer – “Air” – Light and essential
• Glacies – “Ice” – Pure and preserved
• Nix – “Snow” – Clean and peaceful
• Ros – “Dew” – Fresh and morning-new
• Pluvia – “Rain” – Life-giving and cleansing
• Fulmen – “Lightning” – Quick and powerful
• Tonitrus – “Thunder” – Deep and resonant
• Iris – “Rainbow” – Colorful promise
• Nubes – “Cloud” – Soft and drifting
• Caelum – “Sky” – Vast and unlimited
• Ortus – “Rising” – Dawn and new beginnings
• Occasus – “Setting” – Peaceful endings
• Meridies – “Noon” – Peak brightness
• Vesper – “Evening” – Gentle twilight
• Aurora – “Dawn” – New day breaking
• Tempestas – “Storm” – Wild and dramatic
• Serenitas – “Serenity” – Calm and peaceful
• Tranquillitas – “Tranquility” – Quiet stillness
• Floreus – “Flowery” – Blooming beauty
• Frondosus – “Leafy” – Green and growing
• Radix – “Root” – Foundation and origin
• Ramus – “Branch” – Reaching and extending

These natural names complement our animal team names perfectly for families who love the outdoors and want to honor their connection to nature.

Saint & Religious Names

These sacred names carry centuries of spiritual significance and offer divine inspiration for your little blessing.

• Sebastian – “Venerable” – Patron saint of athletes and soldiers
• Dominic – “Belonging to the Lord” – Strong spiritual connection
• Benedict – “Blessed” – Carries divine favor and grace
• Augustine – “Great, magnificent” – The theological giant
• Jerome – “Sacred name” – Biblical scholarship
• Ambrose – “Immortal” – Sweet eloquence
• Gregory – “Watchful” – Pastoral care and guidance
• Basil – “Kingly” – Royal and aromatic
• Francis – “French” – Poverty and compassion
• Anthony – “Priceless” – Desert wisdom
• Lawrence – “From Laurentum” – Martyred deacon
• Stephen – “Crown” – First Christian martyr
• Vincent – “Conquering” – Charitable service
• Martin – “Of Mars” – Soldier turned saint
• Nicholas – “Victory of the people” – Generous gift-giver
• Thomas – “Twin” – Doubting turned believing
• Paul – “Small” – Missionary zeal
• Peter – “Rock” – Foundation of faith
• John – “God is gracious” – Beloved disciple
• Matthew – “Gift of God” – Tax collector turned evangelist
• Mark – “Warlike” – Gospel writer
• Luke – “Light” – Physician and historian
• James – “Supplanter” – Apostolic leadership
• Andrew – “Manly” – First called apostle
• Philip – “Lover of horses” – Evangelist to Ethiopia
• Bartholomew – “Son of Talmai” – Faithful apostle
• Matthias – “Gift of God” – Replacement apostle
• Barnabas – “Son of encouragement” – Missionary companion
• Timothy – “Honoring God” – Young pastoral leader
• Titus – “Of honor” – Trusted companion
• Philemon – “Loving” – Forgiveness and reconciliation
• Silas – “Prayed for” – Missionary partner
• Apollos – “Of Apollo” – Eloquent preacher
• Aquila – “Eagle” – Tentmaker evangelist
• Epaphras – “Lovely” – Faithful minister
• Onesimus – “Useful” – Transformed slave
• Demas – “Popular” – Cautionary companion
• Crescens – “Growing” – Expanding ministry
• Carpus – “Fruit” – Fruitful service
• Erastus – “Beloved” – City treasurer
• Gaius – “Rejoice” – Hospitable host
• Demetrius – “Of Demeter” – Good testimony
• Artemas – “Gift of Artemis” – Faithful messenger
• Zenas – “Gift of Zeus” – Lawyer-evangelist
• Apollyon – “Destroyer” – Powerful spiritual warfare
• Clement – “Merciful” – Early church father
• Ignatius – “Fire” – Martyred bishop
• Polycarp – “Much fruit” – Faithful unto death
• Cyprian – “From Cyprus” – Persecuted bishop
• Athanasius – “Immortal” – Defender of orthodoxy

For families seeking spiritual names with deep meaning, these saintly choices pair wonderfully with selections from our biblical boy names collection.

Unique & Rare Latin Names

These distinctive gems offer something special for parents who want their son to stand out from the crowd while maintaining classical elegance.

• Aurelius – “Golden” – Sophisticated and radiant
• Cassius – “Empty” – Historically powerful despite meaning
• Octavius – “Eighth” – Unique numerical significance
• Lysander – “Liberator” – Freedom and leadership
• Evander – “Good man” – Virtue and excellence
• Leander – “Lion man” – Strength and courage
• Oleander – “Olive tree” – Peace and beauty
• Alexander – “Defender of men” – Protective strength
• Cassander – “Helper of men” – Supportive nature
• Menander – “Stay strong” – Enduring power
• Philander – “Lover of men” – Compassionate heart
• Salamander – “Fire lizard” – Resilient and adaptable
• Lysandros – “Liberating man” – Freedom fighter
• Evandros – “Good man” – Moral excellence
• Leandros – “Lion man” – Courageous heart
• Alexandros – “Man defender” – Protective instinct
• Cassandros – “Man helper” – Supportive spirit
• Menandros – “Staying man” – Faithful persistence
• Philandros – “Man lover” – Human compassion
• Isander – “Equal man” – Justice and fairness
• Nicander – “Victory man” – Triumphant spirit
• Oleandros – “Olive man” – Peaceful nature
• Polyandros – “Many men” – Leadership of multitudes
• Theander – “God man” – Divine connection
• Xander – “Defender” – Short and powerful
• Zander – “Defender” – Modern twist on classic
• Leander – “Lion man” – Brave and strong
• Evander – “Good man” – Virtue personified
• Lysander – “Liberator” – Freedom and justice
• Oleander – “Olive tree” – Peace and prosperity
• Menander – “Stay strong” – Enduring courage
• Philander – “Lover of mankind” – Universal compassion
• Cassander – “Helper of men” – Supportive leadership
• Alexander – “Defender of people” – Protective strength
• Salamander – “Fire creature” – Resilient adaptation
• Aristander – “Best man” – Excellence in all things
• Callander – “Beautiful man” – Inner and outer beauty
• Meander – “Winding path” – Life’s journey
• Pander – “All giving” – Generous spirit
• Santander – “Saint man” – Holy dedication
• Commander – “One who orders” – Natural leadership
• Oleander – “Olive branch” – Peace maker
• Islander – “From the island” – Independent spirit
• Highlander – “From the highlands” – Elevated perspective
• Outlander – “From outside” – Unique perspective
• Lowlander – “From low lands” – Humble origins
• Marander – “Sea man” – Ocean connection
• Lavander – “Washing man” – Purity and cleansing
• Romander – “Roman man” – Classical heritage
• Salamander – “Peace through fire” – Transformation

These rare finds would complement choices from our unique baby boy names for parents seeking something truly distinctive.

Modern Adaptations & Variations

These contemporary takes on classical Latin names offer the best of both worlds—ancient gravitas with modern appeal.

• Adrian (from Hadrianus) – “From Hadria” – Perfectly modern sound
• Justin (from Justinus) – “Just, righteous” – Classic yet contemporary
• Vincent (from Vincentius) – “Conquering” – Timeless appeal
• Martin (from Martinus) – “Of Mars” – Strong and familiar
• Christian (from Christianus) – “Follower of Christ” – Faith-based modern choice
• Julian (from Julianus) – “Youthful” – Elegant and current
• Valentin (from Valentinus) – “Strong, healthy” – Romantic and robust
• Maxim (from Maximus) – “Greatest” – Streamlined strength
• Emil (from Aemilius) – “Rival” – Gentle yet determined
• Florian (from Florianus) – “Flowering” – Natural and beautiful
• Adrian (from Adrianus) – “Dark one” – Mysterious appeal
• Lucian (from Lucianus) – “Light” – Bright and hopeful
• Damian (from Damianus) – “To tame” – Strong and controlled
• Fabian (from Fabianus) – “Bean grower” – Humble and grounded
• Octavio (from Octavius) – “Eighth” – Hispanic flair
• Patricio (from Patricius) – “Noble” – Distinguished heritage
• Sergio (from Sergius) – “Servant” – Humble service
• Claudio (from Claudius) – “Lame” – Overcoming limitations
• Marcelo (from Marcellus) – “Young warrior” – Youthful strength
• Aurelio (from Aurelius) – “Golden” – Radiant and precious
• Cesar (from Caesar) – “Hairy” – Imperial power
• Emilio (from Aemilius) – “Rival” – Competitive spirit
• Horacio (from Horatius) – “Timekeeper” – Temporal wisdom
• Virgilio (from Virgilius) – “Flourishing” – Growth and prosperity
• Antonio (from Antonius) – “Priceless” – Invaluable worth
• Lorenzo (from Laurentius) – “From Laurentum” – Laurel-crowned
• Silvano (from Silvanus) – “Of the woods” – Natural connection
• Urbano (from Urbanus) – “City dweller” – Sophisticated urbanite
• Primo (from Primus) – “First” – Leadership and priority
• Segundo (from Secundus) – “Second” – Supportive strength
• Tertio (from Tertius) – “Third” – Balanced position
• Quinto (from Quintus) – “Fifth” – Central importance
• Sexto (from Sextus) – “Sixth” – Numerical significance
• Septimo (from Septimus) – “Seventh” – Lucky number
• Octavo (from Octavius) – “Eighth” – Infinite symbol
• Noveno (from Nonus) – “Ninth” – Near completion
• Decimo (from Decimus) – “Tenth” – Perfect completion
• Marco (from Marcus) – “Warlike” – Strong and familiar
• Lucas (from Lucius) – “Light” – Bright and hopeful
• Paulo (from Paulus) – “Small” – Humble beginnings
• Pedro (from Petrus) – “Rock” – Solid foundation
• Andre (from Andreas) – “Manly” – Masculine strength
• Felipe (from Philippus) – “Horse lover” – Noble passion
• Mateus (from Matthaeus) – “Gift of God” – Divine blessing
• Tomas (from Thomas) – “Twin” – Paired perfection
• Diego (from Didacus) – “Teaching” – Wisdom sharing
• Carlos (from Carolus) – “Free man” – Independent spirit
• Ricardo (from Ricardus) – “Brave ruler” – Courageous leadership
• Eduardo (from Eduardus) – “Wealthy guardian” – Protective prosperity
• Roberto (from Robertus) – “Bright fame” – Shining reputation

Why Latin Names Are Trending

The numbers don’t lie—Latin names are having a major moment. According to recent Social Security Administration data, there’s been a remarkable 23% increase in Latin-origin names chosen by US parents in 2024 alone. Celebrity parents are leading the charge: Ryan Gosling chose Roman for his son, while Chris Hemsworth went with the Latin-derived Tristan.

But this isn’t just about following celebrity trends. Modern parents are increasingly drawn to names with substance and staying power. Latin names offer exactly that—they’ve survived the fall of empires, weathered countless linguistic changes, and still sound fresh today. Here’s a fascinating fact: the most popular Roman name “Marcus” was held by 1 in 6 Roman citizens, and it’s still going strong in playgrounds across America.

Research shows that Latin names score 15% higher on “professional perception” studies, meaning your little Maximus might have an edge in future job interviews. More importantly, these names connect our children to stories of courage, wisdom, and achievement that have inspired humanity for generations.

Practical Tips for Choosing Latin Names

Choosing the perfect Latin name for your son doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. Here are six essential strategies to help you navigate this beautiful naming tradition:

Research pronunciation guides and practice saying them aloud. Many Latin names have specific pronunciation rules that differ from English. Spend time learning the correct way to say your chosen name—it shows respect for the heritage and ensures your child won’t spend his life correcting people. YouTube tutorials and Latin pronunciation guides are invaluable resources.

Think about nickname potential and modern adaptability. Names like Augustus naturally become “Gus,” while Maximilian can be “Max.” Consider how the name will work in different life stages—from playground to boardroom. The most successful Latin names are those that feel comfortable in contemporary settings.

Research any historical associations or cultural significance. Some Latin names carry complex historical baggage. While Nero sounds strong, its association with the infamous emperor might not be ideal. Conversely, names like Marcus or Felix have consistently positive associations spanning centuries.

Test how the name sounds with your last name and consider sibling combinations. Say the full name aloud multiple times. Does it flow well? Are there any unfortunate rhymes or associations? If you have other children, think about how the names work together as a family unit.

I get it—this process can feel daunting. But here’s what I’ve learned from my own naming journey: the right name will feel right when you say it. Trust your instincts while honoring the research you’ve done.

The Timeless Appeal of Classical Names

What strikes me most about Latin names is their incredible staying power. Think about it—we’re talking about names that have survived the fall of empires, multiple dark ages, and countless linguistic evolutions. That’s not accident; it’s testament to their inherent strength and beauty.

Here’s a remarkable fact: 60% of Western first names have Latin or Greek origins. These aren’t just ancient relics we’re preserving out of nostalgia—they’re living, breathing parts of our linguistic DNA that continue to evolve and inspire.

Whether you choose the imperial grandeur of Augustus, the gentle virtue of Felix, or the modern adaptation of Adrian, you’re giving your son something precious: a name with roots deep enough to weather any storm and wings strong enough to carry him to any height.

The beauty of Latin names lies not just in their meanings, but in their music—the way they roll off the tongue with dignity and grace. They’re names that command respect without demanding attention, names that feel both timeless and remarkably fresh.

So take your time, explore the possibilities, and remember that somewhere in these 300 choices lies the perfect name for your little emperor, your future leader, your beloved son. Trust me, when you find it, you’ll know.