Marcellus

What does the baby name Marcellus mean? Learn about what Marcellus means, its history & origin, popularity in our random name database, pronunciation, similar names, nicknames & spelling variations.

Marcellus - Name Meaning, Origin & Popularity

Spelling of Marcellus
M-A-R-C-E-L-L-U-S, is a 9-letter male given name.
Pronunciation of Marcellus
mahr-SEHL-əs
mar SEL us
Meaning of Marcellus
Young warrior, pledged to mars, young fighter.
Origin of Marcellus
The name 'Marcellus' finds its roots in ancient Rome. It is derived from the Latin name 'Marcellus', which was a diminutive form of the name Marcus. The earliest known use of the name 'Marcellus' can be traced back to the Roman Republic, where it was a common name among the aristocracy. It was often given to children as a way of honoring the family's prestigious lineage.
Christian Names
Latin Names
Pet Names
Roman Names
Similar Names, Nicknames, & Spelling Variations of Marcellus
Marceau
Marcel
Marcelin
Marcelle
Marcellino
Marcello
Marcelo
Marcely
Marcilka
Marzell
Popularity of Marcellus
Over time, the popularity of the name 'Marcellus' has experienced fluctuations. During the height of the Roman Empire, it was widely used among the upper classes. However, as the empire declined, the name gradually fell out of favor. In more recent centuries, 'Marcellus' experienced a resurgence in popularity, particularly in the United States during the 19th century. This can be attributed to the fascination with classical names and the desire to bestow a sense of nobility upon children.
Marcellus currently has 2 likes, and is in the top 10% of liked boy's names. The name Abayomi is slightly more popular than Marcellus.

Etymology of Marcellus

The etymology of the name 'Marcellus' can be traced back to the Latin word 'marcus', which means 'dedicated to Mars', the Roman god of war. The suffix '-ellus' is a diminutive form, indicating 'little' or 'young'. Therefore, 'Marcellus' can be interpreted as 'young warrior' or 'little Mars'. This etymology reflects the valor and strength associated with the name.

Cultural Significance of Marcellus

'Marcellus' holds cultural significance in various contexts. In ancient Rome, individuals named 'Marcellus' were often seen as symbols of power and prestige. They were associated with the ruling elite and were expected to uphold the virtues of Roman society. In modern times, the name 'Marcellus' has been embraced by African-American communities, where it is seen as a symbol of strength, resilience, and cultural heritage.