What does Gus mean and where does it come from?
Gus is commonly recognized as a masculine name derived from Augustus or Angus. Its female usage is modern and informal, often as a nickname. Celebrities like Gus Kenworthy have raised awareness of the name, giving it a fresh identity. This name has variations in popularity and is sometimes used with
Cultural significance
Gus has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in American-speaking communities, where it reflects values of magnus - great.
Peak popularity
Reached #5071 in 1924 — currently #782 in the US.
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Related Reading
American-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Gus?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Gus?
Gus works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Gus Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Gus Rose
Floral · soft ending
Gus Claire
French influence · crisp
Gus Jane
Literary · strong
Gus Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Gus right now?
Holding steady — currently #782 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #782 | 1,418 | ▲ up 5 · +1% births |
| 2022 | #787 | 1,398 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 2021 | #792 | 1,368 | — |
The story of Gus
Gus entered American naming records in 1924 and has been in use for over 100 years. A total of 19,264 babies have received this name. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #792 in 2021 to #782 in 2023. Gus is used for both genders: 0% female and 100% male.
Names that peaked alongside Gus in 1924:
Gus by decade
Gus peaked in the 1920s. See all 1920s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 1,029 | |
| 1890s | 885 | |
| 1900s | 862 | |
| 1910s | 2,288 | |
| 1920s ★ | 2,943 | |
| 1930s | 1,989 | |
| 1940s | 1,625 | |
| 1950s | 1,748 | |
| 1960s | 1,423 | |
| 1970s | 871 | |
| 1980s | 498 | |
| 1990s | 442 | |
| 2000s | 883 | |
| 2010s | 1,618 | |
| 2020s | 160 | |
What are good nicknames for Gus?
What names sound and feel like Gus?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Gus also consider these
Common questions about the name Gus
What does the name Gus mean?
Gus means "Magnus - great" — a name rooted in American 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 Gus?
Gus is currently ranked #782 as a baby name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Gus?
Gus originates from American tradition. American 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 Gus?
Gus is a one-syllable name pronounced G AH1 S. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
How does Gus sound with different last names?
As a one-syllable name, Gus flows best with last names of two or three syllables. Avoid last names ending in the same sound as Gus ends, as this can create an unwanted rhyme. Test by saying the full name out loud several times.