“The name Festus is derived from the Latin word 'festivus', meaning joyful or festive”
Roman Empire origin · Boy name
♂ 97% boys♀ 3% girls
#12824US 2023
5Births / yr
↓Falling
366All-time births
📅 Since 188300.01% of births at peak
How to pronounce Festus
FEST·us
/ˈfɛst.əs/ · stress on FEST · 2 syllables
“The name Festus is derived from the Latin word 'festivus', meaning joyful or festive”
Roman Empire origin · Boy name
What does Festus mean and where does it come from?
The name Festus is derived from the Latin word 'festivus', meaning joyful or festive. It was used in ancient Rome and appears in the New Testament as the name of a Roman governor, Festus the Procurator of Judea. The name was popular among early Christians and has occasionally been used in modern tim
Cultural significance
Festus has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Roman Empire-speaking communities, where it reflects values of latin.
Peak popularity
Reached #717 in 1883 — currently #12824 in the US.
🌿
Related Reading
Roman Empire-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Falling — down 881 spots — currently #12824 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
US Trend 1885–2023#12824 · Top 9.5%
1885
1900
1910
1915
1920
1925
1930
1935
1950
1955
1975
2020
2023
Year
US Rank
Births
vs Prior Year
2023
#12824
5
▼ down 881
2020
#11943
5
▼ down 6420
1975
#5523
5
▼ down 2519 · -37% births
1955
#3004
8
▲ up 374 · +33% births
1950
#3378
6
▼ down 382 · -14% births
1935
#2996
7
▲ up 652 · +17% births
1930
#3648
6
▼ down 457 · -25% births
1925
#3191
8
▼ down 395 · -20% births
1920
#2796
10
▼ down 449 · -9% births
1915
#2347
11
▼ down 867 · +83% births
1910
#1480
6
▼ down 84 · +20% births
1900
#1396
5
▼ down 353
1885
#1043
5
—
Name Popularity Timeline
Popularity Statistics for Festus
1900Rank #1396
11
#4544
↘Falling
1900 - 202312 years
The story of Festus
Festus has been a beloved American name for over 141 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1883. With 366 total births recorded, Festus remains relatively uncommon. Once ranked #1043 in 1885, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #12824 in 2023.
Festus means "Latin" — a name rooted in Roman Empire tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.
How popular is the name Festus?
Festus is currently a distinctive and less common name as a boy name in the US and is becoming rarer and more distinctive, making it a unique choice that stands out.
What is the cultural origin of Festus?
Festus originates from Roman Empire tradition. Roman Empire names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
How do you pronounce the name Festus?
Festus is a two-syllable name pronounced F EH1 S T AH0 S. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Festus a common or rare name?
Festus is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.
Sibling names that pair with Festus
For a sister
Festus & Vesta♡
Festus & Elizabeth♡
Festus & Hazel♡
Festus & Grace♡
For a brother
Festus & Cordis♡
Festus & Julyus♡
Festus & Draconis♡
Festus & Vesta♡
Save your shortlist
Get your saved names emailed to you + weekly picks
Worldwide ranking · 2023
Country
Rank
🇺🇸 USA
#12824
🇬🇧 UK
—
🇨🇦 Canada
—
🇦🇺 Australia
—
Parents who viewed Festus also looked at…
Based on what other parents saved alongside Festus