Arcenio

Meaning & origin

Arcenio is a rare given name that first appeared in U.S. birth records in 1925, though it has never been common. Its highest usage occurred in 1989, when it was given to a small number of baby boys, but it has never entered the top 1000 names. According to Social Security Administration data, the name has maintained a stable trajectory over the decades, with no significant spikes or declines. The name is most likely a variant of Arsenio, derived from the Greek Arsenios (meaning 'virile' or 'masculine'), a name associated with early Christian saints. Arcenio has seen use primarily within Spanish-speaking communities in the United States, though it has not been geographically concentrated in any particular state. As of 2025, the name remains extremely uncommon, with fewer than five births per year on average, making it a distinctive choice for families seeking a name with historical roots and a gentle, melodic sound.

Arcenio is most likely a variant of Arsenio, which itself comes from the Greek name Arsenios (Αρσένιος), derived from arsen (ἄρσην) meaning 'male, virile'. The name was borne by several early saints, including Saint Arsenius the Great, a 4th-century Roman tutor and hermit. In Spanish and Italian-speaking cultures, Arsenio and its variant Arcenio saw modest use, particularly in the 20th century, though never reaching widespread popularity.