Gaius

♂ Boy

Pronounced GY-us /ˈɡaɪ.əs/High

Meaning: An ancient Roman praenomen of uncertain meaning, possibly linked to Latin gaudere, 'to rejoice'Medium

In 30 seconds: A name straight from the Roman Forum: Gaius — perhaps 'to rejoice' — was carried by Julius Caesar himself and a New Testament Christian. Ancient, dignified, and quietly grand.

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Origin MediumLatin

MeaningAn ancient Roman praenomen of uncertain meaning, possibly linked to Latin gaudere, 'to rejoice'

U.S. rank (2025)#3598 ↗ Rising

2025 U.S. births31 boys (0.00% of U.S. boys)

Peak year2014

Total births (all-time)≈ 529

Popularity in the U.S. · SSA data

U.S. births per year (Social Security Administration, 1880–present). Pink marker = peak year.

SSA data updated May 2026. How we source & verify this data.

History & Origin

Gaius is an ancient Roman praenomen (first name) of uncertain origin, often linked to Latin gaudere, 'to rejoice'. Borne by Gaius Julius Caesar and several emperors, it appears in the New Testament as an early Christian host. We note the meaning is debated.

In the U.S. it is rare, appealing for its classical gravity. Possibly 'to rejoice' at the root, ancient, and grand.

Did you know? Gaius was the first name of Julius Caesar — 'Gaius Julius Caesar' — one of the most common of all Roman first names, and so standard that 'Gaia' was used for any Roman bride.

Overall data confidence 72%

Behind the Name — Gaius — etymology

Variations

CaiusGaios

Nicknames

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Famous Bearers

★Gaius Julius Caesar (100BCE-44BCE)
Roman dictator and military general who transformed the Roman Republic
★Gaius Octavius (Augustus) (63BCE-14CE)
First Roman Emperor, born Gaius Octavius Thurinus
★Gaius Maecenas (68BCE-8BCE)
Roman statesman and patron of the arts who supported Virgil and Horace
★Gaius Plinius Secundus (Pliny the Elder) (23-79)
Roman author and naturalist who wrote Naturalis Historia

If you like Gaius…

Cassius— a fellow ancient Roman name

Atticus— a companion classical revival name

Marcus— another Roman praenomen

Titus— a sister strong Latin name

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Frequently Asked

What does the name Gaius mean?

Gaius is an ancient Roman name of uncertain meaning, possibly 'to rejoice'; we note it's debated.

How do you pronounce Gaius?

It's said GY-us /ˈɡaɪ.əs/ — two syllables, stress on the first.

Is Gaius a boy or girl name?

Gaius is a boy's name.

How popular is Gaius?

Gaius is a rare name in the U.S.