Augustus

What does Augustus mean?

Augustus carries the sense of dignity and reverence that comes from its Latin root. In its original context the word meant 'venerable' or 'majestic', a title that became closely associated with imperial authority in Rome.

The name feels formal and stately while also offering warmth through familiar short forms. It suggests grandeur without being ostentatious, and pairs comfortably with both crisp modern surnames and traditional family names.

Historical Context

The name comes from the Latin title Augustus, which originally meant 'venerable' or 'worthy of respect'. It was famously adopted as a title by Gaius Octavius after he became the first Roman emperor, and from that point it was closely linked with imperial dignity. As a given name it draws on that sense of authority and classical prestige.

Over centuries Augustus remained in use in various European languages, sometimes as a formal choice and sometimes as a family name. In English speaking countries it saw particular usage in periods when classical names were fashionable. At the same time shorter forms such as August and nicknames like Gus helped the name feel less formal and more versatile.

Today Augustus is chosen by parents who appreciate its historical weight and elegant sound. It sits comfortably alongside other classical names such as Julius and Cicero in tone, but it also adapts well to modern naming trends because of its friendly diminutives and straightforward pronunciation.

Popularity of Augustus over time

In 2025, Augustus was given to 783 boys in the US. Augustus has risen sharply over the last 20 years, and is now an uncommon boys' name in the US.

What do parents think of Augustus?