Rising since 1994, #991 for boys today.
Popularity of Aurelius since 1913
Babies named Aurelius per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1910s | 45 |
| 1920s | 59 |
| 1930s | 20 |
| 1940s | 13 |
| 1950s | 5 |
| 1960s | 23 |
| 1970s | 43 |
| 1980s | 35 |
| 1990s | 27 |
| 2000s | 164 |
| 2010s | 454 |
| 2020s | 876 |
Meaning & origin
Aurelius is a classic Latin name that has seen a notable resurgence in recent decades. First recorded in the United States in 1913, the name spent most of the 20th century in obscurity but began a steady climb in popularity starting in 1994. By 2025 it reached its peak rank of 991, with 1 in every 7,426 boys receiving the name. Its revival is part of a broader trend favoring ancient Roman names, and it is most popular in states like New Mexico, Nevada, and Washington. The name carries the dignified meaning of 'golden' and connects to the Stoic emperor Marcus Aurelius, offering parents a name with historical weight and a warm, aspirational meaning.
Aurelius derives from the Latin family name Aurelius, itself from aureus meaning 'golden' or 'gilded.' The gens Aurelia was a prominent plebeian family in ancient Rome, with Marcus Aurelius, the philosopher-emperor, as its most famous bearer. The name has been revived in modern times, especially in the English-speaking world, as a classical choice with a distinguished Roman heritage.
Where Aurelius is most popular
Births per 100,000 boys by state, 2025. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Aure, Relius, Auri, Lee
Sibling names for Aurelius
Names that share Aurelius's style, for a brother or sister.
