Surname Augustus - Meaning and Origin
all surnames with 'A'
Augustus: What does the surname Augustus mean?
The last name "Augustus" has its roots in Latin, and it means "majestic," "the increaser," or "venerable." It was a title given by the Roman Senate to the first Emperor of the Roman Empire, Octavian, stepson of Julius Caesar. Over time, Augustus evolved into a personal or family name. It translates to "consecrated" or "holy," referred as someone who is dignified or commands respect. The aura of power, nobility, and reverence that the name carries stems from its historical and imperial Roman association. Despite its ancient origin, the name continues to be popular in contemporary times. Overall, Augustus as a surname projects an image of dignity, grandeur, and venerability.
Order DNA origin analysisAugustus: Where does the name Augustus come from?
The surname Augustus originates from the Latin word "augustus," meaning "great" or "venerable." This was famously served as the honorific title for Gaius Octavius, the first emperor of Rome, who was known as Augustus Caesar. It was derived from the Latin 'augere' meaning 'to increase'.
As a surname, Augustus likely evolved as a patronymic given name before becoming a familial title. Over the centuries, it spread across to different parts of the world due to migration and colonization.
Today, the surname is most common in the United States. It's also reasonably popular in Nigeria and Ghana, indicating a connection to the African diaspora. Despite its roots in the Roman empire, the surname Augustus is less common in present-day Italy or even other parts of Europe. It's also worthy to note that the surname Augustus is found in forms that have been altered considering the local languages and conventions of the regions where it's used. For instance, in Spanish-speaking areas, it becomes Agosto, while it is Auguste in France.
Variations of the surname Augustus
The surname Augustus can be found in different variations and spellings due to ethnic backgrounds and phonetic translations over time. Another common spelling includes Augusta.
Other variants of the surname might include Agustus, a possible misspelling, and Augustin, a similar name of Latin origin. This name could also be related to names such as Augustine and Augusto, popular in countries like Italy, Portugal, and Spain. Augustowski or Augustyn might also be related variants from Poland whereas Augustine could be a French derivative.
For most variations, the connection comes from the name Augustus, originally a title given to Octavian, the first Roman emperor. The name derives from the Latin word “augere” meaning "to increase", signifying venerability and reverence. As a surname, it can be found in different forms all over the world.
Please bear in mind that surname variants can vary significantly and the links between surnames of different spellings and origins can sometimes be speculative. Detailed genealogical research would provide more specifics about direct name connections and origins.
Famous people with the name Augustus
- Edward Augustus: He was a member of the British royal family and a significant patron of the arts.
- Caesar Augustus: A famous figure from ancient Roman history, he's considered the first Roman Emperor.
- Augustus Pablo: A Jamaican reggae musician, known for popularizing the use of the melodica.
- Kwame Augustus: A former professional Canadian football linebacker with the Saskatchewan Roughriders.
- Lorie Augustus: A former All-American athlete in women's basketball.
- Seimone Augustus: An American professional women's basketball player with the Minnesota Lynx in the WNBA.
- Daniel Augustus: A Bermudian golfer who turned professional in 2013.
- Melanie Augustus: A Belizean track and field athlete specializing in sprints.
- Cheryl Augustus: A retired English athlete who specialized in the 400 meters.
- Augustus John: A notable Welsh painter, draughtsman, and etcher. Please note some of these are historical figures or the name is being used as a first name, hence why they are included.