Originating from Latin, the name has deep roots in history, meaning “title of honor” or “strength.” It suggests a child who is destined for leadership and resilience. Unlike many vintage names that feel dusty, Titus feels energetic and alive.
Verdict: Titus is an exceptional choice for a baby born in 2025. It offers the “ancient revival” style parents love without being as overused as Noah or Liam. It is a timeless classic that feels distinct, masculine, and full of character.
Titus Overview
- Meaning: Titus was a Roman name that means “title of honor,” from the Latin “titulus.” It also means “title,” “inscription,” and “strength.” In Latin, it can mean “saved” and refers to the Greek Titans or mythological giants.
- Gender: Titus is a boy’s name that pairs with Tita for a girl.
- Origin: Titus was a Latin praenomen (“personal name”) in Rome. It was one of the most popular first names for Roman boys, but it only appeared in the English-speaking world in the 19th-century.
- Pronunciation: Titus is pronounced “TIEY-Tuhs” in English.
- Popularity: Titus recently ranked in the top 1,000 boy names in the U.S. and first became popular in the 1960s. Titus peaked at 281st in 2015 and is still considered somewhat common today.
- Nicknames: Ti, Tidal, Tito, Titu, Tussy, Ty, Tyty.
- Variations: Tiitus, Tite, Titek, Tito, Titos, Tizio, Tytus.
- Namesakes: Titus Davis, American football player with the San Diego Chargers. Titus Tarquinius, son of the last king of Rome, Lucius Tarquinius Superbus.
What Does Titus Mean?
The name Titus is steeped in authority and history. While dictionaries often give a simple definition, the etymology offers much more depth. It is derived from the Latin word titulus, which translates to “title of honor.” This suggests that the name was originally bestowed upon those worthy of distinction and respect.
Beyond this primary definition, Titus carries connotations of “strength” and “inscription,” implying a name that is carved in stone and built to last. In some etymological circles, it is linked to the Latin word for “saved” or “defender.” There is also a linguistic bridge to the Greek word tīo (to honor) and the mythological Titans, the pre-Olympian giants, lending the name a sense of colossal strength. Less commonly, it has been linked to the Latin titillo (to tickle) or titio (firebrand), suggesting a fiery, energetic personality.
Where Does the Name Titus Come From?
Titus is thoroughly Roman in origin. In Ancient Rome, names were composed of three parts, and Titus was a praenomen (a personal first name). It was incredibly widespread, ranking as the sixth most popular among Roman names, standing proudly alongside heavyweights like Lucius, Gaius, and Marcus. The most famous bearer was undoubtedly Emperor Titus, a ruler known for his military prowess and for completing the Colosseum.
The name also has significant Biblical roots. In the New Testament, Titus was a trusted companion of the Apostle Paul and an early Christian leader, celebrated for his diplomacy and faithfulness. Despite these ancient roots, Titus fell into obscurity for centuries. It wasn’t until the Protestant Reformation in the 17th century that it was revived as an English name by Puritans who favored its biblical connection.
How Popular is the Name Titus?
Titus is what name experts call a “sleeping giant.” For much of the early 20th century, it was rare, hovering near the bottom of the charts. However, it began a slow and steady climb in the 1960s. The name experienced a significant boost in the early 2000s, partly due to the television show Titus, which introduced a rugged, modern edge to the ancient moniker.
In recent years, Titus has transitioned from a rare gem to a steady favorite. It peaked around 2015 (reaching rank #281) and has since settled into a comfortable position within the top 400. It is popular enough to be recognized and spelled correctly, but rare enough that your child likely won’t be one of three boys named Titus in his kindergarten class. It is currently trending as a stylish alternative to more common biblical names like Noah or Elijah.
How Do I Pronounce Titus?
The standard English pronunciation is TIEY-tuhs (rhyming with “hiatus”).
In some European languages, particularly those closer to the Latin roots, the “i” may be pronounced as a purely long “ee” sound (TEE-toos), but in the United States and UK, the long “I” is the rule.
Is Titus a Boy or Girl Name?
Titus is historically and traditionally a boy’s name. Its suffix “-us” is a masculine Latin marker (compared to the feminine “-a”). The female equivalent in Ancient Rome was Titia or Tita. While modern naming trends often see gender lines blurred, Titus remains firmly in the masculine camp due to its strong historical association with emperors and patriarchs.
Variations of Titus
Because Rome’s influence spread across Europe, the name Titus evolved into several interesting international variations:
- Tiitus (Finnish)
- Tite (French)
- Titek (Polish)
- Tito (Italian/Spanish), A very popular diminutive that stands on its own.
- Titos (Greek)
- Tizio (Italian)
- Tytus (Polish)
Nicknames for Titus
Titus is short and punchy, but affectionate nicknames are always welcome. Here are the common and creative options:
- Ti: A simple, effortless short form.
- Ty: The most intuitive nickname, sounding just like the popular name Tyler or Tyson.
- Tito: energetic and fun.
- Titan: A creative nickname that plays on the “strength” meaning.
- T-Man: A playful option for a little boy.
- Tussy: A vintage, affectionate pet name.
- Kai: A stretch, but derived from the ending sound.
Names Similar to Titus
If you love the vibe of Titus, ancient, strong, and ending in “us”, but aren’t fully committed, consider these similar styles.
- Silas: Shares the biblical and Latin “us” ending feel; currently very stylish.
- Atticus: Another Roman intellectual name that pairs beautifully with Titus.
- Magnus: Latin for “great,” sharing the powerhouse vibe of Titus.
- Felix: A happy, upbeat Latin name meaning “lucky.”
- Asher: Biblical and soft, but with a similar popularity trajectory.
- Caius: A rarer Roman option that sounds very modern.
- Lucian: Sophisticated and light, a nice counterpoint to the heaviness of Titus.
- Sage: Short, wise, and earthy.
- Augustus: The “grandpa” version of Titus; regal and imposing.
- Roman: A literal nod to the origin, currently very trendy.
Middle Names for Titus
Finding the flow is key with a two-syllable name like Titus. We have categorized these middle names to help you find the right rhythm.
Short & Punchy
These one-syllable names create a strong, rhythmic “Titus [Name]” cadence.
Biblical & Timeless
Since Titus is a New Testament name, it pairs effortlessly with other scriptural classics.
Modern & Distinguised
Soften the ancient feel of Titus with these smoother, surname-style middle names.
Sibling Names for Titus
If you have a Titus, you likely enjoy names that are established but not overused. Here is how to build a matching set.
For a Brother
- Caleb: Biblical, capable, and loyal.
- Ezra: A scribe’s name that feels just as intellectual as Titus.
- Miles: Meaning “soldier” in Latin, this is a perfect thematic match.
- Tobias: Shares the “T” and the “s” ending without rhyming too closely.
- Xavier: Sophisticated and classic.
- Dexter: A cheeky Latin option meaning “right-handed” or “fortunate.”
- Damien: Strong and historically rooted.
For a Sister
- Lydia: A New Testament name with Roman flair.
- Octavia: A distinctly Roman name that sounds regal next to Titus.
- Helen: Classic beauty that never goes out of style.
- Miranda: Shakespearean and Latin, meaning “admirable.”
- Priscilla: A biblical pair; in the New Testament, Priscilla and Titus were contemporaries.
- Eva: Short, punchy, and life-affirming.
- Norah: A soft, vintage choice that balances the hard “T”s of Titus.
Famous People Named Titus
From ancient times to today, many people named Titus have found fame.
- Emperor Titus (Titus Vespasianus): The Roman Emperor who succeeded his father Vespasian; he is a major historical figure.
- Sir Titus Salt: A 19th-century English manufacturer and philanthropist who built the village of Saltaire.
- Titus Bramble: English professional footballer who played in the Premier League.
- Titus O’Neil: The ring name of Thaddeus Bullard, a famous American WWE wrestler and philanthropist.
- Titus Welliver: Renowned American actor known for his roles in Bosch, Lost, and Deadwood.
- Titus Brandsma: A Dutch Carmelite friar, journalist, and martyr who opposed Nazi ideology.
- Titus Kaphar: A contemporary American painter whose work reshapes historical narratives.
- Titus Burgess: An American actor and singer with a huge Broadway and television presence.
Titus in Pop Culture
Fiction writers love the name Titus for characters who are complex, strong, or slightly eccentric.
- Titus Andromedon: The breakout character from the Netflix series Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt, played by Titus Burgess.
- Titus Pullo: A rough-and-tumble Roman soldier and main protagonist in the HBO series Rome.
- Titus Andronicus: The tragic title character of William Shakespeare’s bloodiest play.
- Titus Groan: The anti-hero of Mervyn Peake’s Gormenghast fantasy series.
- Titus: A character in The 100 TV series.
- Christopher Titus: The star and creator of the sitcom Titus, which aired in the early 2000s.
FAQs About the Name Titus
Here are answers to the most common questions parents ask when considering this name.
What Is the Biblical Meaning of Titus?
In the Bible, Titus is a prominent figure in the New Testament. He was a Greek convert to Christianity and became a close companion and trouble-shooter for the Apostle Paul. Paul refers to him as “my true son in our common faith.” The biblical meaning is associated with faithfulness, diplomacy, and leadership, as Titus was appointed to organize the church in Crete.
Who Is Titus in Mythology?
While primarily a historical Roman name, “Titus” is often linguistically linked to the Titans of Greek mythology, the elder gods who ruled before the Olympians. Additionally, Titus Tatius was a legendary King of the Sabines who, after an initial conflict involving the “Rape of the Sabine Women,” ruled jointly with Romulus, the founder of Rome.
What Is Titus Andronicus Known For?
Titus Andronicus is the protagonist of Shakespeare’s first tragedy. He is a fictional Roman general who engages in a brutal cycle of revenge against his enemies, the Goths. It is considered Shakespeare’s most violent play, involving mutilation and cannibalism. However, most modern associations with the name lean toward the biblical figure or the actual Roman Emperor rather than this fictional character.
Is Titus a Rare Name?
Titus is in the “Goldilocks” zone, neither too rare nor too common. It is ranked within the top 400 boy names in the US, meaning it is familiar but not trendy. You are unlikely to find three other boys named Titus in the same classroom, unlike names such as Liam or Noah, making it a distinctive choice for 2025.
Does Titus Mean Giant?
While the direct Latin translation is “title of honor,” Titus is etymologically related to the Greek word Titan, which refers to a race of giants. Therefore, many name experts consider “giant” or “of the giants” to be a valid secondary meaning, symbolizing someone of great stature or importance.
What Are Good Nicknames for Titus?
The most common nicknames are “Ty” and “Ti.” For something more playful, “Tito” (the Spanish form) is very energetic. Parents looking for a “tough” nickname often use “Titan,” while “T-Man” is a popular affectionate nickname for toddlers.
Is Titus a Saint Name?
Yes, Saint Titus was a disciple of Saint Paul and the first bishop of Crete. He is a recognized saint in the Roman Catholic, Eastern Orthodox, and Anglican churches. His feast day is celebrated on January 26th (along with Saint Timothy) or August 25th in traditional calendars.
Why Is the Name Titus Popular Now?
Titus fits the current “Ancient Revival” trend where parents seek names that feel rooted and historical but not old-fashioned. Names ending in “-us” (like Atticus, Magnus, and Cassius) are having a major style moment. Titus offers that sophisticated Roman sound while remaining easy to spell and pronounce.
