Decimus
DES-ih-mus
Decimus is a name meaning 'tenth,' rooted in the Latin tradition of naming children by birth order. It conveys a sense of heritage and classical lineage, evoking the disciplined world of ancient Rome. The name carries a strong, distinctive sound that sets it apart from more common modern names.
At a glance
Decimus is a bold English name of direct Latin origin, meaning 'tenth.' Used in ancient Rome as a praenomen for tenth-born sons, it was revived in England during classical-revival periods of the 18th and 19th centuries. Best known through architect Decimus Burton, it is rare, distinguished, and unmistakably scholarly in character.
Etymology & History
Decimus comes directly from the Latin adjective decimus, meaning 'tenth,' derived from decem, the Latin word for 'ten.' It was a common praenomen in ancient Rome, used to denote a tenth-born son. The name was occasionally adopted in England during periods of classical revival, particularly the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries, and has seen niche use as a bold, antiquarian choice.
Cultural Significance
Decimus belongs to a small and distinguished group of Latin praenomina used in English naming, mostly during the Georgian and Regency periods when classical education profoundly shaped middle-class and upper-class culture. Its most celebrated English bearer is Decimus Burton (1800-1881), the Regency and Victorian architect responsible for the Hyde Park Screen, the Athenaeum Club, and much of the layout of Regent's Park in London. The name carried obvious associations of scholarly cultivation and a family proud of classical learning. In the ancient world, Decimus was a genuine and respected name, borne by Decimus Junius Brutus, one of the assassins of Julius Caesar. Today Decimus is extremely rare in Britain but is not unheard of, occasionally appearing in families with a tradition of unusual classical names. Its strong sound and unmistakable heritage give it a confident, slightly theatrical distinctiveness.
Famous people named Decimus
Decimus Burton
English architect of the Regency and early Victorian eras, responsible for significant works in London including the Hyde Park Screen and the layout of Regent's Park, the most celebrated English bearer of the name.
Decimus Junius Brutus Albinus
Roman general and one of the leading conspirators in the assassination of Julius Caesar in 44 BC, an important ancient bearer of the praenomen.
Frequently Asked Questions
Names like Decimus
Cassius
“Hollow, vain”
Cassius is a distinguished name of Latin origin, possibly derived from the word 'cassus' meaning hollow or empty. Despite this literal meaning, the name has long been associated with strength, leadership, and boldness through its many famous bearers. It carries a commanding classical presence that feels both ancient and thoroughly modern.
Cornelius
“Horn”
Cornelius derives from the prestigious Roman gens Cornelia, whose name connects to the Latin cornu, meaning 'horn,' an ancient symbol of power, resilience, and plenty. The name entered Christian usage through the biblical Cornelius, a Roman centurion described in the Acts of the Apostles as the first Gentile baptised by Saint Peter, an event of profound theological significance that made Cornelius a revered name in early Christian communities across the Roman Empire. In German-speaking lands the name was carried by saints, scholars, and nobles, giving it a deep well of historical and spiritual authority.
Marcus
“Dedicated to Mars”
From the Latin, originally dedicated to Mars, the Roman god of war. It has been in continuous use since Roman Britain. A strong, classical name with enduring appeal.
Maximus
“Greatest or largest”
Maximus projects strength, grandeur, and ambition, making it a popular choice for parents who want a name with commanding presence. Once confined largely to historical and religious contexts, it gained widespread modern appeal following the 2000 film 'Gladiator'. The name suits a bold, confident personality and carries an air of classical dignity.
Octavius
“Eighth-born son of Rome”
Octavius is a grand, historically resonant name that projects authority and classical learning. It is rare in modern usage, which gives it a distinctive, stately quality for parents drawn to Roman history or vintage names. The name carries intellectual and aristocratic associations, well suited to a child with a bold, confident personality.
Where you'll find Decimus
Decimus shows up in these curated collections across Namekin.