Male Roman Names: A Comprehensive Guide to Ancient Roman Masculine Names

Discover a treasure trove of male Roman names, exploring their rich history and captivating meanings. From emperors and senators to everyday citizens, these names offer a glimpse into the Roman world, revealing their values, beliefs, and cultural nuances. Whether you're seeking inspiration for a character in your next historical fiction novel, or simply want to learn more about Roman naming conventions, this comprehensive guide will provide you with a wealth of options.
1. **Aelius:** "Of the Aelii clan" - This was a prominent Roman family that produced several emperors, including Hadrian.
2. **Agrippa:** "Born in the fields" - This name belonged to a powerful Roman general and administrator, Marcus Vipsanius Agrippa.
3. **Albinus:** "White" - A common Roman surname, often used to describe someone with fair hair or complexion.
4. **Antonius:** "Priceless" - This name was borne by the famous Roman general and statesman, Mark Antony.
5. **Aurelius:** "Golden" - A prestigious Roman name, often associated with the Golden Age of Roman literature.
6. **Caius:** "Rejoice" - This was a popular Roman name, often used for the firstborn son.
7. **Claudius:** "Lame" - A Roman name associated with the emperor Claudius, known for his physical disability but also his accomplishments.
8. **Cornelius:** "Horn" - A name linked to a prominent Roman family, known for their influence in politics and the military.
9. **Decimus:** "Tenth" - A name often given to the tenth son, reflecting Roman numerology.
10. **Fabius:** "Bean" - This name was associated with the Fabian clan, a powerful Roman family with a strong military tradition.
11. **Flavius:** "Golden-haired" - A name that signified nobility and prominence in Roman society.
12. **Gaius:** "Rejoice" - Similar to Caius, but with a slightly different pronunciation.
13. **Germanicus:** "Of German origin" - A name given to those of Germanic descent or those who served in the Roman army against Germanic tribes.
14. **Gnaeus:** "Pure" - This name was commonly used for noble Roman citizens, emphasizing their moral uprightness.
15. **Horatius:** "Time" - This name was linked to the Horatii family, known for their role in the legendary battle against the Curiatii.
16. **Julius:** "Youthful" - A name associated with the famous Roman general and statesman, Julius Caesar.
17. **Lucius:** "Light" - A popular Roman name, often associated with good fortune and prosperity.
18. **Marcus:** "Dedicated to Mars" - This was a very common Roman name, reflecting the importance of Mars, the god of war, in Roman culture.
19. **Marius:** "Of Mars" - Another name associated with the god of war, often used for those with strong military connections.
20. **Maximus:** "Greatest" - A name often given to children, reflecting the parents' hopes for their future greatness.
21. **Nero:** "Strong" - A name famously associated with the Roman emperor Nero, known for his extravagance and cruelty.
22. **Octavius:** "Eighth" - This name was given to the first Roman emperor, Augustus, whose original name was Gaius Octavius.
23. **Paulus:** "Small" - A common Roman name, often used for men of modest stature or those with a humble personality.
24. **Publius:** "Public" - This name was often given to those who held public office or were involved in politics.
25. **Quintus:** "Fifth" - A name often given to the fifth son, reflecting Roman numerology.
26. **Scipio:** "Staff" - This name was associated with the Scipionic clan, a prominent Roman family known for their military prowess.
27. **Sempronius:** "Sow" - A name linked to a Roman family that produced several prominent figures, including the Gracchi brothers.
28. **Septimius:** "Seventh" - A name often given to the seventh son, reflecting Roman numerology.
29. **Sergius:** "Keeper" - A name often associated with guardianship and protection, reflecting the importance of family and community in Roman society.
30. **Sextus:** "Sixth" - A name often given to the sixth son, reflecting Roman numerology.
31. **Titus:** "Nurturer" - A name associated with the emperor Titus, known for his generosity and compassion.
32. **Valerius:** "Strong" - A name often associated with bravery and physical strength.
33. **Varus:** "Warlike" - A name often given to men with a strong military background.
34. **Vespasian:** "Vesper" - A name associated with the Roman emperor Vespasian, known for his pragmatic approach to governing.
35. **Vibius:** "Lively" - A name often associated with energy and enthusiasm.
36. **Virgil:** "Green" - A name associated with the famous Roman poet, Virgil, known for his pastoral themes.
37. **Vitellius:** "Vine" - A name often associated with agriculture and winemaking.
38. **Vopiscus:** "Little Wolf" - A name that conveyed strength and ferocity.
39. **Quintus:** "Fifth" - A name given to the fifth son, often associated with wisdom and knowledge.
40. **Lucius:** "Light" - A common Roman name, often used for men who were intelligent or insightful.