Cassius Overview
- Meaning: Cassius originally meant “hollow” or “helmeted warrior.” The etymology is debated, but it is definitely associated with warriors.
- Gender: Cassius is a traditionally male name.
- Origin: Cassius is a name with Latin origins, and there are several Roman historical figures named Cassius.
- Pronunciation: In the United States, Cassius is pronounced “CASH-us.” while in Europe and the United Kingdom, it is pronounced “CASS-ee-us.”
- Popularity: Cassius is more popular in Europe than in the United States. In the US, it is on the lower end of the classification of “popular” and ranked 485th for boys in 2021.
- Nicknames: Cas, Cash, Cass, Chase, Class.
- Variations: Casseus, Cassia, Cassio, Cassios, Kasius, Kassius.
- Namesakes: Cassius Marcellus Claybirth, Cassius Dio.
What Does Cassius Mean?
Cassius is a powerful and arresting name with a fascinating history rooted in Ancient Rome. The iconic playwright William Shakespeare popularized the name centuries later.
The name Cassius has two different Latin roots, and there is debate about which led to the name itself. “Cassus” means “hollow,” while “cassis” means “helmeted” (1).
Most etymologists think that the name most likely derives from the second word and was given to boys in the hopes that they became helmeted warriors.
What Is the Origin of the Name Cassius?
Cassius was a commonly used name in Ancient Rome, where it originated. Because of its relation to the word for helmet, it was a common name amongst warriors and therefore associated with chivalry and destruction alike.
Several famous Romans kept the name Cassius in history books, most notably Gaius Cassius Longinus, the senator that orchestrated the assassination of Julius Ceasar.
Shakespeare brought the name back to popular imagination when he made Longinus a major character in his play, “Julius Caesar”(2).
How Popular Is the Name Cassius?
Cassius has remained in the top 1,000 boys’ names for many centuries but was never near the top. However, since the death of Muhammad Ali, it has been slowly rising in popularity again.
It has been in the top 500 for the past decade. In 2021, the Social Security Administration listed it at number 485 for newborn boys (3).
How Do I Pronounce Cassius?
Cassius can be difficult to pronounce because it is not spelled the way it sounds. In the USA, it is pronounced as “KASH-us.” However, in Europe, it is pronounced “Cass-ee-us.”
Is Cassius a Boy or Girl Name?
Cassius is a traditionally masculine name but can be given to a child of any gender.
Variations of Cassius
Cassius is a very traditional name, and as such, has not had many variations over the years. Generally, the classic spelling of Cassius is used. However, there are a few uncommon versions, such as:
- Casseus (Latin)
- Cassia (feminine, Latin)
- Cassio (Latin)
- Cassios (Latin)
- Kasius (German)
- Kassius (German)
Nicknames for Cassius
Cassius is a robust and powerful name, and many choose to keep it as is. However, there are a few popular nicknames, such as:
- Cas
- Cash
- Cass
- Chase
- Class
Similar Names to Cassius
If you like the name Cassius but want to consider something similar, you might want to go with another name with Roman origins, or something else from Shakespeare. Some favorites include:
- Atticus
- Augustus
- Aurelius
- Cyrus
- Edmund
- Lennox
- Linus
- Lucius
- Magnus
- Malcolm
- Nathaniel
- Oliver
- Rufus
- Sebastian
- Titus
Middle Names for Cassius
If you’ve chosen Cassius for your child and are looking for a middle name, read on for some options that would go well with it. The following sound particularly good after Cassius based on both the sounds and the number of syllables:
- Alexander
- Benjamin
- Eduardo
- Frank
- Gabriel
- George
- Jack
- Jason
- Noah
- Samuel
- Theodore
Sibling Names for Cassius
If you already have a child named Cassius and are looking for some possible sibling names, there are many excellent options:
For a brother:
- Darius
- Ignatius
- Julius
- Lysander
- Roman
- Thaddeus
For a sister:
- Andrea
- Cassandra
- Cassidy
- Claire
- Sloane
- Viola
Famous People Named Cassius
The most famous person named Cassius is Cassius Marcellus Clay, Jr., otherwise known as Muhammad Ali. Yet, there are many other influential people with the name, from Roman politicians to American artists, including:
- Cassius Marcellus Clay: American Kentucky politician who worked to abolish slavery, and the inspiration for Muhammed Ali’s name.
- Cassius Marcellus Clay, Jr: Legendary American boxer who later changed his name to Muhammad Ali.
- Cassius Marcellus Coolidge: American artist noted for his ”Dogs Playing Poker” paintings.
- Cassius Dio: Ancient Roman historian and senator.
- Cassius Marsh: American NFL linebacker who has played for the Seattle Seahawks and Chicago Bears.
- Cassius Winston: an American NBA player for the Washington Wizards.
- Saint Cassius of Clermont: Third Century Christian martyr and saint.
Cassius in Popular Culture
The most famous Cassius in pop culture is the Cassius based on the real-life Roman senator who manufactured the assassination of Ceasar. This character is featured in “Julius Caesar,”one of William Shakespeare’s most beloved plays. Some others in popular culture include:
- “Cassius”: A song by the English rock band, Foals.
- Cassius: Recurring character in the science fiction series “The Orville.”
- Cassius de Spain: Character in William Faulkner’s novel “Absalom, Absalom!”
- Cassius au Bellona: Character in the “Red Rising” trilogy by Pierce Brown.
- Cassius Green: Protagonist in the movie “Sorry to Bother You.”
Cassius FAQs
We’ve covered a lot of information about the name Cassius. Here are a couple of commonly asked questions we haven’t answered.
Is the Name Cassius in the Bible?
The name Cassius does not appear in the Bible. Many people believe it does because of its Latin origins, but it only existed within Ancient Roman. However, there were some notable early Christians with the name.
Is Cassius a Popular Name in Italy?
Cassius has its origins in Latin, and would therefore be considered an Italian boy’s name. However, despite these roots and the name’s popularity with Christians, Cassius is rarely encountered in the country. Cassio is more frequently used but is most commonly found in Brazil.
