Gaius
Meaning of Gaius
The name Gaius, pronounced GAY-uhs (/ˈɡeɪəs/), is a classic male name of Latin origin. Historically, Gaius was a common Roman praenomen (given name) and has been borne by several notable figures in ancient Rome, including Gaius Julius Caesar, the famed military general and statesman. The name carries associations of strength and leadership due to its usage among influential Roman figures. A popular variation of the name is Caius, which shares the same roots and historical significance. While not extremely common in modern times, Gaius has seen sporadic use in the United States over the decades, with a slight increase in popularity in recent years. In 2023, it ranked 5436th with 17 occurrences. This timeless name offers a unique blend of historical depth and classical elegance for those seeking a distinctive yet meaningful choice for their baby boy.
Pronunciation
English
- Pronunced as GAY-uhs (/ˈɡeɪəs/)
U.S. Popularity Chart
Notable People Named Gaius
| Gaius Furius Sabinius Aquila Timesitheus was a Roman Imperial officer of likely Oriental-Greek origins in the 3rd century. |
| Gaius Sempronius Gracchus was a prominent Roman politician and soldier known for his extensive reform proposals during the 2nd century BC. |
| Gaius Cilnius Maecenas was a close friend and advisor to Octavian, serving as a patron to influential poets like Horace and Virgil during the reign of Augustus. |
| Gaius Asinius Pollio was a versatile Roman figure known for his military and political roles, as well as for his influence on literature and poetry, particularly as a patron of Virgil and a friend of Horace. |
| Gaius Appuleius Diocles, a Roman charioteer, is considered the highest-paid athlete of all time and his career has been reconstructed by modern historians using detailed contemporary inscriptions. |
| Gaius Octavius, a Roman politician and ancestor to the Roman emperors of the Julio-Claudian dynasty, hailed from Velitrae and was a descendant of an old and wealthy equestrian branch of the plebeian gens Octavia. |
| Gaius Petronius, also known as Publius Petronius, served as the second and fourth Prefect of Roman Aegyptus. |
