This name originates from Latin roots signifying magnificence and high esteem. It is a title turned into a name, representing dignity and reverence.
Verdict: August is an impeccable choice for a baby born in 2025. It sits in the “Goldilocks zone” of popularity: recognizable and beloved, yet not as ubiquitous as Liam or Noah. It offers parents a way to tap into the “old man name” trend while retaining a cool, nature-inspired edge.
August Overview
- Meaning: The name August means “great, magnificent.” The word augustus, from which it came, means “consecrated” or “venerable.”
- Gender: August is traditionally a boy’s name. In 2017, it slipped into the top 1000 for girls.
- Origin: The name August comes from the Latin word “augustus.”
- Pronunciation: Pronounce August “aw-gust” in English.
- Popularity: August is a popular name, increasing in popularity year by year since 2000.
- Nicknames: Augie, Auggo, Aust, Goose, Gus, Gusto.
- Variations: Agustin, Auguste, Augustine, Augustus, Austen, Austin, Gus.
- Namesakes: August Anheuser Busch, of the Anheuser-Busch Company.
What Does August Mean?
The name August carries a meaning of “great, magnificent, to increase.” It is derived from the Latin word augere, which translates to “to increase.” Consequently, the descriptor augustus came to mean “consecrated, venerable,” or someone of supreme dignity.
Unlike names that simply describe a profession (like Mason) or a location (like London), August describes a quality of character. To be “august” is to be inspiring, impressive, and respected. While we naturally associate it with the eighth month of the year, the name’s roots go much deeper than the calendar, touching on themes of leadership and divine favor.
Where Does the Name August Come From?
The history of August is inextricably linked to the Roman Empire. It originated as a title rather than a given name. The first Roman emperor, born Gaius Octavius, was granted the title Augustus by the Roman Senate in 27 BC. It was an honorific meant to elevate him above all other humans, essentially declaring him “The Venerable One.”
Because the Emperor Augustus was so renowned, the Roman Senate renamed the month of Sextilis to “August” in his honor (just as July had been named for Julius Caesar).
The name eventually drifted from a purely imperial title into common usage, particularly in Germany and Scandinavia, where it became a staple in the 17th and 18th centuries. It has been a recorded given name in the English-speaking world since the Middle Ages, though it saw its first massive spike in popularity during the Victorian era.
How Popular is the Name August?
August is currently experiencing a massive renaissance. If you look at US Social Security Administration data, the name follows a distinct “U-shape” trajectory. It was a top-tier favorite in the 1890s (the classic “grandpa” era) but slowly fell out of fashion, hitting its lowest point in the 1970s and 80s when it was considered quite dated.
However, the script has flipped. Since the early 2000s, August has been climbing the charts aggressively. It is no longer a “sleeper” hit; it is a genuine star. It has firmly established itself as a top choice for parents seeking a vintage revival name (1).
Its rise is fueled by the modern trend of “soft masculinity”, names that are strong but end in softer sounds or vowels, similar to Arlo, Milo, and Ezra. It is now considered a “timeless classic” rather than a momentary fad.
How Do I Pronounce August?
In American English, the standard pronunciation is AW-gust. The emphasis is placed on the first syllable.
Because the name has deep Germanic and Scandinavian roots, you will hear variations if you travel Europe:
- German: Pronounced ow-GUWST (German origin).
- Polish: Pronounced ow-GOOST (Polish variation).
- Swedish: Pronounced ow-GUYST (Swedish variation).
- French: Pronounced oh-GOOST (spelled Auguste).
Is August a Boy or Girl Name?
Historically, August has been strictly a male name, with Augusta or Augustine serving as the female counterparts. For over a century, it charted exclusively on the boys’ list.
However, the lines are blurring. In the modern era, August is increasingly viewed as a unisex option. This shift was accelerated in 2015 and 2017 when high-profile celebrities (such as Mark Zuckerberg) chose the name for their daughters. It has a similar appeal to other “month names” like June, May, or April, which are traditionally feminine, making the crossover easier.
Despite this, it remains predominantly a boy’s name statistically, but parents of girls are reclaiming it for its strength and nature vibes.
Variations of August
This name has traveled the globe, adapting to local languages while retaining its imperial dignity.
- Agustin: The Spanish form, often used in Latin American cultures.
- Auguste: The French and German spelling, offering a continental flair.
- Augustus: The original Latin form; heavier and more formal.
- Augusto: Used in Italian, Portuguese, and Spanish.
- Aku: A Finnish diminutive form.
- Austin: Surprisingly, this is the medieval contraction of Augustine/Augustus that became a cowboy classic.
Nicknames for August
While August is only two syllables, it offers a treasure trove of nicknames ranging from the traditional to the quirky.
- Gus: The definitive, friendly, “old soul” nickname.
- Augie: A sweet, energetic option often used for young children.
- Goose: A playful, affectionate animal nickname derived from the “gus” sound.
- Ace: A creative leap, or often used if the initials are A.C. or A.S.
- Rusty: A rare, “stretch” nickname that plays on the sound.
- Goldie: Associated with the “golden” month of late summer.
Names Similar to August
If you love the vibe of August, vintage, established, and slightly nature-leaning, these names hit the same notes.
- Jasper: Like August, this is a vintage gem that has shaken off the dust to become cool again.
- Felix: Another Latin name (meaning “lucky”) that shares the upbeat, classic feel of August.
- Theodore: Shares the “old man name” revival energy and offers great nicknames (Teddy/Theo).
- Aspen: Leans harder into the nature aspect of August but keeps the leading “A”.
- Julian: Also has Roman roots (Julius Caesar) and shares the soft, sophisticated masculinity of August.
- Silas: Biblical and rustic, synonymous with the forest, pairing well with the summer vibe of August.
- Arthur: A royal classic that stands as a peer to August in terms of dignity.
- Jude: Short, sweet, and musical, much like the shortened “Gus.”
Middle Names for August
August is a strong “anchor” name that pairs beautifully with various styles. We have categorized these to help you find your specific sound.
Timeless & Classic Pairings
These middle names solidify the dignified, “statesman” feel of August.
Earthy & Bohemiam Pairings
Lean into the summer season vibe with these nature-inspired choices.
- August River
- August Clay
- August Fox
- August Wilder
- August Orion
Short & Punchy Pairings
Since August is two syllables, a one-syllable middle name creates a perfect rhythm.
Sibling Names for August
Building a sibling set requires matching the “era” and the “weight” of the name. August plays well with other vintage revivals.
For a Brother
- Oliver: A perfect match in popularity and British charm.
- Sebastian: Long, lyrical, and sophisticated.
- Milo: Shares the soft vowels and ancient roots.
- Ezra: Biblical, cool, and edgy.
- Leo: Celestial and strong, just like August.
For a Sister
- Hazel: The ultimate nature/vintage counterpart to August.
- Matilda: Strong, spunky, and full of history.
- Eleanor: A royal name that balances the imperial roots of August.
- Juniper: If you want to highlight the botanical vibe.
- Florence: A place name and vintage name wrapped in one.
Famous People Named August
The name has been borne by artists, thinkers, and royalty, proving its versatility across centuries.
- August Wilson: A Pulitzer Prize-winning American playwright, known for Fences.
- August Rodin: The legendary French sculptor behind The Thinker.
- August Strindberg: A Swedish playwright and novelist who influenced modern theatre.
- Princess Eugenie’s Son: Named August Philip Hawke Brooksbank, bringing the name back into the British Royal Family.
- August Alsina: A contemporary American singer and rapper.
- August Ames: A notable figure in the adult film industry (often cited in pop culture searches).
- Caesar Augustus: The first Roman Emperor who put the name on the map.
August in Pop Culture
In recent years, fiction has done more for this name than history has.
- “August” by Taylor Swift: This hit song from the album Folklore turned the name into a cultural mood, wistful, summer love.
- August Pullman: The inspiring protagonist of the best-selling book and movie Wonder.
- August Rush: The musical prodigy in the film of the same name.
- August Booth: A character (Pinocchio) in the TV series Once Upon a Time.
FAQs About the Name August
Here are the most common questions we receive about this magnificent name.
What Is the Personality of the Name August?
The name August often conveys a personality of quiet strength, creativity, and warmth. Because of its etymology (“magnificent”), it is associated with leadership and dignity. Numerology often assigns it the “Number 8” or “Number 1” vibration, suggesting ambition and drive.
Is August a Weird Name?
Not anymore. While it might have seemed unusual in the 1980s, August is now a mainstream favorite. It is familiar to everyone because of the month, yet distinctive enough to stand out. It is currently considered stylish rather than “weird.”
Is August an Old Name?
Yes, it is ancient. It dates back to the Roman Empire (27 BC). However, like many “old” names (e.g., Silas, Felix, Theodore), it feels fresh and modern today due to the “100-year rule” of baby naming cycles.
Is August a Surname?
Yes. While primarily a first name today, August is a surname found in German, Polish, and Scandinavian records. Families with this last name often have ancestors who used “August” as a patronymic identifier.
Can I Name My Baby August if They Weren’t Born in August?
Absolutely. In fact, most parents who choose the name August do not have babies born in that month. Naming a child August when they are born in December or March is considered acceptable and even ironic. It is chosen for the sound and meaning, not just the calendar date.
Is August a Biblical Name?
Technically, no. August is of Latin/Roman origin, not Hebrew. However, the variation “Augustine” is deeply tied to Christian history via St. Augustine of Hippo, one of the most important theologians in church history. Therefore, it is often viewed as a spiritual or “saint” name.
What Are the Coolest Nicknames for August?
Beyond the standard “Gus,” the coolest modern nicknames include “Augie” (for a hipster vibe), “Ace” (for a sporty vibe), and “Goose” (for a Top Gun reference). Some parents also use “Bear” or “Lion” based on the “August” implies a “regal beast” personality.
Why Is the Name August So Popular Right Now?
August hits the “sweet spot” of current trends: it is a nature word (summer month), a vintage revival (Victorian era), and a “soft masculine” name (ending in a soft ‘t’ rather than a hard consonant). Pop culture boosts from Taylor Swift and the movie Wonder have also accelerated its rise.
