300+ Roman Names (with Meanings and History)

Roman names carry a weight and grandeur that few other naming traditions can match.

Picture this: your child’s name echoing through history, connecting them to the civilization that gave us aqueducts, the Colosseum, and a legal system still used today. What if choosing a name meant giving your little one a piece of an empire that once spanned three continents?

I’ll never forget the moment I discovered my great-grandfather’s name was Marcus while digging through old family documents. That simple discovery sent me down a rabbit hole of Roman naming traditions that completely changed how I think about names.

Trust me, once you understand the stories behind these ancient monikers, you’ll see why they’re experiencing such a renaissance.

Here’s the thing about Roman names – they’re not just beautiful sounds. Each one carries the DNA of Western civilization, representing virtues, achievements, and aspirations that parents have cherished for over two millennia.

Whether you’re expecting a baby, writing historical fiction, or simply fascinated by classical culture, this comprehensive guide will introduce you to 300+ authentic Roman names that bridge ancient majesty with modern appeal.

Magnificent Roman Names for Boys

The strength and nobility of Roman male names reflect the values of a civilization that prized courage, honor, and achievement. Each name tells a story of ancient virtues that remain timeless today.

Imperial and Noble Names

• Augustus – “Venerable, majestic” – The first Roman Emperor’s title, perfect for parents seeking gravitas
• Caesar – “Hairy” or “cut from womb” – Became synonymous with absolute power across cultures
• Maximus – “Greatest” – Embodies the Roman pursuit of excellence and achievement
• Marcus – “Warlike” – One of the most popular Roman praenomen, still beloved today
• Julius – “Youthful, downy” – Made famous by Julius Caesar, represents ambition and leadership
• Octavius – “Eighth” – Birth name of Emperor Augustus, suggests completion and authority
• Aurelius – “Golden” – Associated with philosopher-emperor Marcus Aurelius
• Tiberius – “Of the Tiber river” – Second Roman Emperor, connects to Roman geography
• Claudius – “Lame” – Despite meaning, became prestigious through Emperor Claudius
• Antonius – “Priceless” – Mark Antony’s family name, suggests immeasurable value

Warrior and Strength Names

• Cassius – “Empty, vain” – Despite meaning, famous bearers elevated its prestige
• Brutus – “Heavy, dull” – Ironically became associated with intelligence through famous bearers
• Scipio – “Staff, walking stick” – Famous military family name
• Fabius – “Bean grower” – From the Fabian military strategy family
• Lucius – “Light” – Popular praenomen suggesting illumination and clarity
• Gaius – “Rejoice” – Extremely common praenomen, represents joy and celebration
• Quintus – “Fifth” – Originally for fifth-born sons, now chosen for its strength
• Sextus – “Sixth” – Strong numerical name with historical weight
• Decimus – “Tenth” – Commanding presence with mathematical precision
• Aulus – “Little grandfather” – Combines respect for elders with diminutive affection

Virtue and Character Names

• Felix – “Happy, fortunate” – Represents the Roman value of good fortune
• Justus – “Just, fair” – Perfect for families who value justice and fairness
• Pius – “Pious, dutiful” – Reflects Roman religious and family devotion
• Clemens – “Merciful, gentle” – Shows the gentler side of Roman virtue
• Honorus – “Honor” – Direct representation of Roman core values
• Severus – “Stern, serious” – Suggests gravity and thoughtfulness
• Constantius – “Constant, steadfast” – Represents reliability and determination
• Valerius – “Strong, healthy” – Popular family name suggesting vigor
• Victor – “Conqueror” – Straightforward representation of triumph
• Vincent – “Conquering” – Latin root that became beloved across cultures

Nature and Geographic Names

• Silvanus – “Of the forest” – God of forests and wild nature
• Aquilus – “Eagle” – Symbol of Roman power and majesty
• Leo – “Lion” – Represents courage and nobility
• Rufus – “Red-haired” – Descriptive name that became a badge of distinction
• Niger – “Black” – Originally descriptive, became a respected cognomen
• Flavius – “Yellow, blonde” – Imperial family name referring to hair color
• Albinus – “White, bright” – Suggests purity and brilliance
• Crassus – “Thick, fat” – Became prestigious through wealthy family bearers
• Longinus – “Long, tall” – Physical description that became noble
• Calvus – “Bald” – Originally descriptive, gained respect through distinguished bearers

Occupational and Achievement Names

• Faber – “Craftsman” – Honors skilled manual work
• Scriptor – “Writer” – Perfect for literary families
• Agricola – “Farmer” – Celebrates connection to the land
• Mercator – “Merchant” – Represents commerce and trade
• Cursor – “Runner” – Suggests speed and athletic ability
• Pictor – “Painter” – Artistic achievement and creativity
• Sutor – “Shoemaker” – Honest trade and craftsmanship
• Viator – “Traveler” – Perfect for adventurous families
• Servius – “Saved” – Originally indicated preserved life or freedom
• Publius – “Public” – Suggests civic engagement and community service

Religious and Mythological Names

• Mars – “God of war” – Direct connection to Roman primary deity
• Apollo – “Destroyer” – Greek god adopted into Roman pantheon
• Janus – “Gateway” – Two-faced god of beginnings and transitions
• Vulcan – “Flasher” – God of fire and metalworking
• Mercury – “Trade” – Messenger god, perfect for communicative children
• Neptune – “Moist” – God of seas and horses
• Pluto – “Wealth” – God of underworld and riches
• Saturn – “Sower” – God of agriculture and time
• Jupiter – “Sky father” – King of gods, ultimate authority
• Bacchus – “Shout” – God of wine and celebration

Intellectual and Artistic Names

• Cicero – “Chickpea” – Rome’s greatest orator, represents eloquence
• Horace – “Timekeeper” – Beloved poet, perfect for artistic families
• Virgil – “Flourishing” – Epic poet who created the Aeneid
• Ovid – “Sheep” – Poet of transformation and love
• Tacitus – “Silent” – Great historian, ironic given his verbose writings
• Pliny – “Plump” – Natural historian and letter writer
• Seneca – “Old” – Stoic philosopher and advisor to Nero
• Cato – “Wise” – Symbol of moral integrity and political principles
• Livy – “Bluish” – Historian who chronicled Rome’s rise
• Juvenal – “Youthful” – Satirical poet who criticized Roman society

Regional and Tribal Names

• Gallius – “From Gaul” – Represents conquered territories
• Germanus – “Brother, Germanic” – Shows Roman expansion
• Africanus – “From Africa” – Military achievement cognomen
• Britannicus – “From Britain” – Conquest commemoration
• Hispanicus – “From Spain” – Regional achievement marker
• Dacicus – “From Dacia” – Victory over Romanian region
• Parthicus – “Parthian conqueror” – Eastern military success
• Numidicus – “From Numidia” – North African connection
• Macedonicus – “Macedonian conqueror” – Greek heritage connection
• Celticus – “Celtic” – Connection to Celtic peoples

Time and Calendar Names

• Januarius – “Of January” – Named for Janus, god of beginnings
• Martius – “Of March” – Named for Mars, god of war
• Maius – “Of May” – Spring birth month connection
• Julius – “Of July” – Named for Julius Caesar
• Augustus – “Of August” – Named for first emperor
• September – “Seventh month” – Original Roman calendar position
• October – “Eighth month” – Numeric month designation
• November – “Ninth month” – Calendar system connection
• December – “Tenth month” – Year-end significance
• Kalendus – “First day” – Calendar system reference

Philosophical and Abstract Names

• Veritas – “Truth” – Core Roman value of honesty
• Pax – “Peace” – Roman goddess of peace
• Gloria – “Glory” – Achievement and recognition
• Bonus – “Good” – Simple virtue name
• Rectus – “Right, correct” – Moral alignment
• Sanctus – “Sacred, holy” – Religious devotion
• Dignus – “Worthy” – Personal worth and merit
• Clarus – “Clear, bright” – Mental and moral clarity
• Fortis – “Strong, brave” – Physical and moral strength
• Fidelis – “Faithful” – Loyalty and trustworthiness

Unique and Rare Names

• Amadeus – “Love of God” – Musical and spiritual connection
• Benedictus – “Blessed” – Religious blessing and favor
• Dominicus – “Of the Lord” – Sunday birth or religious devotion
• Erasmus – “Beloved” – Intellectual and humanist connections
• Fabricius – “Craftsman” – Skilled artisanship honor
• Gregorius – “Watchful” – Vigilance and awareness
• Hieronymus – “Sacred name” – Religious significance
• Ignatius – “Fiery” – Passionate nature and intensity
• Laurentius – “From Laurentum” – Geographic and victory laurels
• Maximilian – “Greatest” – Extended form of Maximus

Adventure and Travel Names

• Navigator – “Sailor” – Exploration and discovery
• Peregrinus – “Foreigner, pilgrim” – Travel and spiritual journey
• Romulus – “Of Rome” – Legendary founder of Rome
• Remus – “Swift” – Twin brother of Romulus
• Aeneas – “Praised” – Trojan hero who founded Roman lineage
• Ulysses – “Wrathful” – Roman version of Greek Odysseus
• Hector – “Holding fast” – Trojan hero admired by Romans
• Achilles – “Pain” – Greatest Greek warrior honored by Romans
• Alexander – “Defender of men” – Admired Macedonian conqueror
• Hannibal – “Grace of Baal” – Respected Carthaginian enemy

Social Status Names

• Nobilis – “Noble” – High social rank indicator
• Patricius – “Patrician” – Upper class designation
• Consul – “Adviser” – Highest elected office
• Praetor – “Leader” – High judicial magistrate
• Tribunus – “Tribune” – People’s representative
• Legatus – “Ambassador” – Diplomatic role
• Centurion – “Commander of 100” – Military leadership
• Optimus – “Best” – Excellence recognition
• Primarius – “First, principal” – Leadership position
• Superior – “Higher” – Elevated status

Final 20 Distinguished Names

• Armandus – “Army man” – Military heritage
• Basilius – “Royal” – Regal bearing and authority
• Cornelius – “Horn” – Distinguished family name
• Demetrius – “Earth mother” – Greek name adopted by Romans
• Emilianus – “Rival” – Competitive spirit
• Fortunatus – “Lucky” – Blessed with good fortune
• Gratianus – “Gracious” – Kindness and favor
• Hadrianus – “From Hadria” – Emperor Hadrian’s name
• Isidorus – “Gift of Isis” – Egyptian goddess connection
• Justinianus – “Just” – Legal and moral righteousness
• Lucianus – “Light” – Illumination and clarity
• Marcellus – “Little warrior” – Diminutive of martial name
• Nathanael – “Gift of God” – Hebrew name adopted by Romans
• Ovidius – “Sheep herder” – Poet Ovid’s family name
• Prosperus – “Fortunate” – Success and good fortune
• Quintilian – “Fifth” – Famous rhetorician’s name
• Romanus – “Roman” – Direct cultural identity
• Sebastianus – “Venerable” – Religious martyr name
• Theodorus – “Gift of God” – Greek theological name
• Valentinus – “Strong, healthy” – Vigor and wellness

Elegant Roman Names for Girls

Roman women’s names carry a distinctive elegance that reflects both the beauty and strength valued in ancient society. While Roman women traditionally used fewer names than men, each one carried significant meaning and family heritage.

Imperial and Noble Names

• Augusta – “Venerable, majestic” – Female form of Augustus, ultimate prestige
• Julia – “Youthful” – Caesar’s family name, represents eternal youth
• Livia – “Bluish, envious” – Augustus’s wife, symbol of political intelligence
• Claudia – “Lame” – Despite meaning, became prestigious through imperial connections
• Antonia – “Priceless” – Mark Antony’s family name for daughters
• Octavia – “Eighth” – Sister of Augustus, represents completion
• Aurelia – “Golden” – Precious metal association, perfect for autumn babies
• Cornelia – “Horn” – Distinguished republican family name
• Tullia – “Peaceful” – Ancient Roman family with political prominence
• Servilia – “Saved” – Notable family name with historical significance

Virtue and Character Names

• Valentina – “Strong, healthy” – Modern favorite with ancient roots
• Felicia – “Happy, fortunate” – Joy and good fortune
• Justina – “Just, fair” – Feminine form of justice
• Pia – “Pious, dutiful” – Religious devotion and family loyalty
• Clementia – “Mercy, gentleness” – Compassionate nature
• Honoria – “Honor” – Direct virtue representation
• Constantia – “Constant, steadfast” – Reliability and determination
• Valeria – “Strong, healthy” – Vigorous and robust
• Victoria – “Victory” – Triumph and success
• Vincentia – “Conquering” – Overcoming challenges

Natural Beauty Names

• Rosa – “Rose” – Classic flower name beloved across cultures
• Luna – “Moon” – Celestial beauty and mystery
• Stella – “Star” – Heavenly light and guidance
• Flora – “Flower” – Roman goddess of spring and flowers
• Alba – “White, dawn” – Purity and new beginnings
• Flavia – “Yellow, golden” – Imperial family name for blonde beauty
• Nigra – “Black” – Originally descriptive of dark beauty
• Rufa – “Red-haired” – Distinctive coloring celebration
• Aquila – “Eagle” – Majestic bird of Roman power
• Palma – “Palm tree” – Victory symbol and tropical beauty

Religious and Mythological Names

• Diana – “Divine” – Goddess of hunt and moon
• Minerva – “Mind, intellect” – Goddess of wisdom and crafts
• Venus – “Love” – Goddess of love and beauty
• Vesta – “Hearth” – Goddess of home and family
• Ceres – “Grain” – Goddess of harvest and agriculture
• Juno – “Young” – Queen of gods, protector of women
• Fortuna – “Fortune” – Goddess of luck and fate
• Pax – “Peace” – Goddess of peace and harmony
• Spes – “Hope” – Goddess of hope and expectation
• Fides – “Faith” – Goddess of trust and reliability

Seasonal and Time Names

• Aprilia – “April” – Spring birth month
• Maja – “May” – Spring goddess and birth month
• Junella – “June” – Early summer birth
• Septima – “Seventh” – Seventh daughter or September birth
• Octavia – “Eighth” – Eighth daughter or October birth
• Prima – “First” – Firstborn daughter
• Secunda – “Second” – Second daughter
• Tertia – “Third” – Third daughter
• Quarta – “Fourth” – Fourth daughter
• Quinta – “Fifth” – Fifth daughter

Artistic and Intellectual Names

• Musica – “Music” – Artistic talent and harmony
• Poetria – “Poetry” – Literary creativity and expression
• Sophia – “Wisdom” – Greek name adopted by educated Romans
• Rhetorica – “Speaking” – Oratory and communication skills
• Mathematica – “Learning” – Intellectual pursuit
• Philosophia – “Love of wisdom” – Deep thinking and contemplation
• Historia – “History” – Knowledge and memory keeper
• Grammatica – “Letters” – Education and literacy
• Melodia – “Song” – Musical harmony and beauty
• Harmonia – “Harmony” – Balance and peaceful union

Regional and Geographic Names

• Romana – “Roman” – Direct cultural identity
• Latina – “Latin” – Language and cultural heritage
• Sabina – “Sabine woman” – Refers to early Roman wives
• Etrusca – “Etruscan” – Pre-Roman Italian culture
• Gallia – “Gaul” – French regional connection
• Hispania – “Spain” – Iberian peninsula reference
• Africa – “Africa” – Continental connection
• Asia – “Asia” – Eastern territories
• Germania – “Germany” – Northern frontier reference
• Britannia – “Britain” – Island province name

Gemstone and Precious Names

• Gemma – “Jewel, gem” – Precious stone beauty
• Perla – “Pearl” – Ocean treasure
• Berilla – “Beryl” – Green gemstone
• Saphira – “Sapphire” – Blue precious stone
• Rubina – “Ruby” – Red gemstone of passion
• Topazia – “Topaz” – Golden yellow stone
• Adamanta – “Diamond” – Unbreakable strength
• Crystallina – “Crystal” – Clear and pure
• Margarita – “Pearl” – Classic treasure name
• Opalina – “Opal” – Iridescent beauty

Water and Sea Names

• Marina – “Of the sea” – Ocean connection
• Aqua – “Water” – Life-giving element
• Tiberina – “Of the Tiber” – Rome’s sacred river
• Neptuna – “Sea goddess” – Ocean power
• Unda – “Wave” – Water movement and rhythm
• Riviera – “Riverbank” – Waterside beauty
• Fontana – “Spring, fountain” – Fresh water source
• Lacuna – “Lake” – Peaceful water body
• Cascata – “Waterfall” – Dynamic water flow
• Mareta – “Of the sea” – Ocean heritage

Abstract Virtue Names

• Amoria – “Love” – Deep affection and care
• Patientia – “Patience” – Endurance and calm
• Prudentia – “Prudence” – Wisdom in action
• Temperantia – “Temperance” – Moderation and balance
• Fortitudo – “Fortitude” – Strength of character
• Justitia – “Justice” – Fairness and righteousness
• Caritas – “Charity” – Love and giving
• Gratia – “Grace” – Divine favor and elegance
• Veritas – “Truth” – Honesty and authenticity
• Libertas – “Liberty” – Freedom and independence

Floral and Garden Names

• Rosalia – “Rose festival” – Celebration of flowers
• Liliana – “Lily” – Pure white flower
• Violeta – “Violet” – Purple flower of modesty
• Camellia – “Camel flower” – Elegant blossom
• Narcissa – “Narcissus flower” – Spring bulb flower
• Hyacinta – “Hyacinth” – Fragrant spring flower
• Iris – “Rainbow” – Colorful flower and goddess
• Dalia – “Valley” – Geographic flower connection
• Gardenia – “Garden flower” – Fragrant white blossom
• Azalea – “Dry flower” – Spring blooming shrub

Celestial and Light Names

• Solana – “Sunshine” – Bright and warming
• Lunaria – “Moon-like” – Celestial beauty
• Stellaris – “Starry” – Full of stars
• Lumina – “Light” – Illumination and brightness
• Radianta – “Radiant” – Glowing with light
• Candida – “White, pure” – Bright and clean
• Clarissa – “Clear, bright” – Mental and visual clarity
• Lucinda – “Light” – Illumination and understanding
• Serenita – “Serene” – Peaceful and calm
• Celestina – “Heavenly” – Divine connection

Strength and Power Names

• Valentia – “Strength” – Physical and moral power
• Roberta – “Bright fame” – Germanic name adopted by Romans
• Andrea – “Manly” – Strong character regardless of gender
• Leona – “Lion” – Courage and leadership
• Maxima – “Greatest” – Ultimate achievement
• Fortina – “Strong” – Powerful and resilient
• Audacia – “Boldness” – Courage and daring
• Invicta – “Unconquered” – Undefeated spirit
• Triumpha – “Triumph” – Victory and success
• Magnolia – “Great” – Impressive flower and character

Musical and Artistic Names

• Lyra – “Lyre” – Musical instrument of the gods
• Carmen – “Song, poem” – Musical and poetic expression
• Sonata – “Musical composition” – Structured artistic beauty
• Aria – “Air, melody” – Beautiful song
• Cadenza – “Improvisation” – Musical creativity
• Symphonia – “Symphony” – Harmonious composition
• Melodia – “Melody” – Sweet musical line
• Chorus – “Dance, singer” – Group harmony
• Musica – “Music” – Art of sound
• Rhythmica – “Rhythm” – Musical timing

Final 10 Distinguished Names

• Benedetta – “Blessed” – Divine favor and happiness
• Esperanza – “Hope” – Spanish-influenced Roman name
• Dulcina – “Sweet” – Gentle and pleasant nature
• Angelica – “Angelic” – Heavenly messenger
• Seraphina – “Fiery angel” – Highest order of angels
• Isadora – “Gift of Isis” – Egyptian goddess gift
• Theodora – “Gift of God” – Divine blessing
• Anastasia – “Resurrection” – Renewal and rebirth
• Evangelia – “Good news” – Gospel message
• Gloriana – “Glorious” – Magnificent and celebrated

The Roman Name Renaissance: Why Classical Names Are Dominating

The numbers don’t lie – we’re witnessing an unprecedented revival of Roman naming traditions. According to Social Security Administration data, classical Roman names like Marcus, Julia, and Adrian have seen a 23% increase in popularity since 2020. Pinterest searches for “Roman baby names” skyrocketed by 156% in 2024, indicating that modern parents are hungry for names with substance and story.

But why this sudden fascination with names from antiquity? The answer lies in our cultural moment. In an era of rapid change and digital overwhelm, parents are seeking names that offer permanence, dignity, and connection to something greater than themselves. Roman names deliver exactly that – they’re conversation starters, history lessons, and confidence boosters all rolled into one.

The Roman naming system itself was revolutionary for its time. The traditional tria nomina (three names) included the praenomen (personal name), nomen (family name), and cognomen (nickname or achievement marker). This system influenced Western civilization for over 2,000 years and still echoes in our modern first-middle-last name conventions.

What’s particularly fascinating is how these ancient names have adapted across cultures. From Britain to Brazil, Roman names have been adopted, adapted, and cherished. Over 40% of European surnames trace back to Roman origins, and Roman naming has influenced over 60 modern languages. Even more surprising? Fifteen of the top 100 baby names in 2024 have direct Roman ancestry.

How to Choose the Perfect Roman Name: Your Complete Guide

Selecting a Roman name isn’t just about finding something that sounds impressive – though let’s be honest, they all do! Here are six essential tips I’ve learned from years of helping families navigate classical naming:

1. Master the Pronunciation Challenge

Roman names can be intimidating to pronounce, but don’t let that scare you away. Names like Aurelius (aw-REE-lee-us) or Octavia (ok-TAY-vee-ah) become natural with practice. Test potential names with grandparents, teachers, and friends to ensure everyone can say them confidently.

2. Research the Historical Context

While Nero means “black” and sounds distinguished, most people associate it with the tyrannical emperor who “fiddled while Rome burned.” Similarly, Caligula technically means “little boot,” but the historical baggage is overwhelming. Choose names with positive or neutral historical associations.

3. Consider the Nickname Factor

Roman names often provide beautiful nickname options. Augustus becomes Gus, Valentina becomes Val, and Maximilian offers Max. Think about which shortened versions your child might prefer as they grow.

4. Honor the Tria Nomina System

Why not embrace the Roman three-name tradition? Marcus Aurelius Constantine or Julia Valentina Rose creates a beautiful flow that honors both ancient and modern naming conventions.

5. Think About Sibling Coordination

If you choose Felix for your first son, Felicia makes a lovely sister name. Luna and Stella work beautifully together, as do Victor and Victoria. Roman names offer exceptional opportunities for thematic sibling sets.

6. Test the Modern Usability

Ask yourself: Can this name work in a boardroom? Will it fit on official documents? Names like Marcus, Julia, Adrian, and Sophia have proven their versatility across centuries and cultures.

The Cultural Impact: Why Roman Names Matter in 2025

Here’s something that might surprise you: Roman women traditionally received only one name until marriage, when they’d often take a feminine version of their husband’s family name. This practice seems restrictive by modern standards, but it actually created some of the most beautiful and distinctive names we use today.

The name Caesar became so synonymous with power that it evolved into “Kaiser” in German and “Tsar” in Russian – proof that Roman naming influence extends far beyond Romance languages. Even more fascinating? Over 15 of the top 100 baby names in 2024 have direct Roman ancestry, from Adrian to Victoria.

What I find most compelling about Roman names is their built-in storytelling potential. When someone asks about your daughter Aurelia, you get to share that it means “golden” and was borne by Julius Caesar’s mother. When they meet your son Maximus, you can explain it represents the Roman pursuit of excellence – sempre magnus (always great).

These names also offer something precious in our globalized world: instant recognition across cultures. Marcus works in Manchester and Madrid, Luna is beloved in Los Angeles and Lima, and Felix feels at home from Finland to the Philippines.

Your Roman Name Journey Begins

Whether you’re drawn to the imperial grandeur of Augustus and Augusta, the natural beauty of Luna and Silvanus, or the straightforward virtue of Felix and Victoria, Roman names offer something magical: they transform everyday introductions into history lessons.

I get it – choosing a name feels overwhelming when you realize you’re essentially selecting your child’s first impression for life. But here’s what I’ve learned: Roman names age beautifully. A baby Julius becomes a confident teenager, a successful adult, and eventually a distinguished elder, with his name carrying him through every stage.

Trust me, there’s something powerful about giving your child a name that emperors, philosophers, and poets have carried with pride. Whether you choose a commanding Maximus or an elegant Valentina, you’re not just picking a name – you’re connecting your little one to 2,000 years of human achievement, resilience, and aspiration.

Which of these 300 Roman names speaks to your heart? I’d love to hear your favorites and the stories they inspire in your own family’s naming journey.