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Popes and Antipopes

  1. Pius

    • Origin:

      Latin

    • Meaning:

      "pious"

    • Description:

      Pius is the very definition of a religious name, used appropriately enough for several popes. Only a handful of baby boys receive this name every year.
  2. Hilary

    • Origin:

      Latin from Greek

    • Meaning:

      "cheerful, happy"

    • Description:

      The only version that works for boys anymore is the Latinate Hilario or Ilario. Better to look to Felix for a happy-meaning name.
  3. Paschal

    • Description:

      Paschal is a masculine name derived from the Hebrew word 'pesach' meaning 'Passover.' It entered European languages through Latin 'paschalis,' referring to Easter or the Paschal feast. Historically used primarily among Christian communities, the name directly connects to the celebration of Easter and Christ's resurrection. Paschal gained modest popularity in medieval Europe, particularly in Catholic countries, and has been borne by several popes and saints. While never extremely common, it experienced some usage through the centuries, especially in religious families. The name carries strong spiritual significance while maintaining a dignified, classical sound. Today, Paschal remains uncommon, offering a distinctive religious heritage name that's recognized but rarely encountered.

  4. Pepin

    • Origin:

      German

    • Meaning:

      "awe-inspiring"

    • Description:

      Most famous as the name of King Pepin the Short, this choice might feel somewhat belittling. The even-shorter form is Pippin, a name adopted for musical theater, and the Dutch form Pepijn is in that country's Top 100.
  5. Innocent

    • Origin:

      Latin

    • Meaning:

      "harmless, innocent"

    • Description:

      Innocent, the name of thirteen popes, is rarely heard in a secular setting, where its loaded meaning could open the door to ridicule.
  6. Damasus

    • Description:

      Damasus is a venerable masculine name with ancient roots, deriving from Greek origins. Most famously associated with two popes, including Saint Damasus I (366-384 AD), who was known for commissioning the Latin translation of the Bible. The name possibly relates to the Greek word 'damazo,' meaning 'to tame' or 'to subdue.' Damasus is extremely rare in contemporary usage but carries significant historical weight and religious significance in Christian tradition. The name has a dignified, scholarly quality with its classical origins and ecclesiastical associations. For those drawn to names with historical depth and religious heritage, Damasus offers a distinctively uncommon option with substantial cultural resonance.

  7. Cletus

    • Origin:

      Greek

    • Meaning:

      "called forth"

    • Description:

      Sometimes used as a short-form of Catholic Pope name Anacletus, Cletus is an ancient name that has not-yet found the popularity of Theodore, Leo, Atticus and Max. It perhaps suffers from its association to the yokel character in The Simpsons , but we think it's time for a reconsideration, given how well it fits into several current trends. Nickname Clete is cute as a button!
  8. Plato

    • Origin:

      Greek

    • Meaning:

      "broad-shouldered"

    • Description:

      The name of one of the greatest Western philosophers is often used as a first name in its land of origin, Greece, and would make a really interesting, thought-provoking choice here. It is remembered here as the nickname of the memorable character played by Sal Mineo in the classic film "Rebel Without a Cause."
  9. Zephyrinus

    • Origin:

      Latin form of Zephyrus, Greek mythology name

    • Meaning:

      "west wind"

    • Description:

      Zephyrinus is the form of the name of the Greek god of the west wind best known as the name of a pope and saint.
  10. Theodoric

    • Origin:

      German

    • Meaning:

      "people's ruler"

    • Description:

      Theodoric feels prehistoric, though with short form Theo one of the hottest names around, this old German names for boys may soon feel new again.
  11. Pasquale

    • Description:

      Pasquale is a traditional Italian masculine name with rich historical and religious significance. Derived from the Latin 'paschalis' meaning 'relating to Easter,' it was historically given to boys born during the Easter season. The name has deep roots in Italian culture, particularly in southern Italy and Sicily, where it remains moderately common. In Italian-American communities, Pasquale has been a familiar presence since the waves of Italian immigration in the early 20th century, often affectionately shortened to 'Pat' or 'Patsy.' The name carries connotations of faith, tradition, and cultural heritage. While less common among newer generations, Pasquale offers a distinctive option for parents seeking a name with Mediterranean charm and historical depth. Its characteristic Italian ending gives it a melodic, warm quality when pronounced correctly.
  12. Pascale

    • Description:

      Pascale is a masculine name of French origin, though it can also be used as a feminine name in some cultures. It derives from the Latin 'Paschalis,' meaning 'relating to Easter' or 'born at Passover time.' Pascale is the French variant of Pascal, which itself comes from the Hebrew word for Passover (Pesach). The name carries spiritual significance through its connection to these important religious observances. In France, it's pronounced 'pas-KAL,' with a subtle emphasis on the second syllable. While not widely used in English-speaking countries, Pascale maintains modest popularity in France, Belgium, and other French-speaking regions, appreciated for its elegant sound and meaningful religious heritage.
  13. Stephanus

    • Origin:

      Latin

    • Meaning:

      "crown, garland"

    • Description:

      The ancient father of all the Stephen names. The modern Greek version is STEPHANOS.
  14. Fabianus

    • Description:

      Fabianus is a masculine name of ancient Roman origin, derived from Fabius, the name of a prominent Roman gens (family clan). The root connects to the Latin 'faba' meaning 'bean', as the Fabii family were originally bean farmers. The '-anus' suffix typically indicated adoption into or association with a family. The name carries historical gravitas through association with several notable historical figures, including Pope Fabian (236-250 CE), who led the early Church during a period of relative peace. While Fabianus remains rare in its full Latin form, its derivatives Fabian and Fabien have maintained modest popularity across Europe. The name conveys classical erudition, historical depth, and a connection to ancient Roman traditions, appealing to parents drawn to names with substantive etymological roots.
  15. Paschalis

    • Origin:

      Greek variation of Pascal, "of the Passover; Easter"

    • Meaning:

      "of the Passover; Easter"
  16. Ioannes

    • Description:

      Ioannes is the ancient Greek and Latin form of John, derived from the Hebrew name Yochanan meaning "God is gracious." This classical variation has been used throughout history, particularly in scholarly and ecclesiastical contexts during the Medieval and Renaissance periods when Latin was the language of academia and the Church. Many historical documents record notable figures under this Latinized version of their name. While rarely used as a birth name in modern times, Ioannes represents the foundation from which numerous international variations evolved, including Johannes (German), Juan (Spanish), Giovanni (Italian), and Ivan (Slavic). The name carries an air of classical erudition and historical significance, connecting its bearer to an ancient tradition spanning cultures throughout Europe and the Mediterranean world.
  17. Romanus

    • Origin:

      Latin

    • Meaning:

      "from Rome"

    • Description:

      Most parents looking for an ancient Roman name would probably prefer something less generic, like, say, MAGNUS or CLAUDIUS.
  18. Dionysius

    • Origin:

      Greek mythology name

    • Meaning:

      "god of Nysa"

    • Description:

      Dionysius derives from Dionysus, the Greek god of wine, revelry and fertility. This Romanized spelling has been used for poets, soldiers, and saints throughout the centuries, but is hardly ever seen today.
  19. Sergius

    • Origin:

      Latin, a Roman clan name

    • Description:

      Rarely heard in modern times, it was used by Norman Mailer for the hero of his book The Deer Park.
  20. Urbanus

    • Description:

      Urbanus is a masculine name with Latin origins meaning "of the city" or "refined and polished," reflecting the Roman concept that city dwellers were more sophisticated than rural inhabitants. It represents the original Latin form of the more common Urban. The name carries historical significance through several popes and saints who bore it, including Pope Urban I in the 3rd century. Urbanus has a distinctly classical feel, evoking images of ancient Rome and learned scholars. While uncommon in contemporary usage, it offers a dignified alternative for parents seeking a name with historical depth and elegant sophistication. The name suggests culture, civilization, and refinement.