What does Lucas mean and where does it come from?
Lucas (Λουκάς) is a name with Latin and Greek origins. In Latin, it means 'from Lucania', referring to a specific region in Southern Italy. In Greek, it translates to 'bringer of light', which has led to its association with brightness and clarity. Lucas is traditionally a male name, but its popular
Cultural significance
Lucas has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Latin-speaking communities, where it reflects values of from lucania.
Peak popularity
Reached #8 in 2018 — currently #9 in the US.
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Related Reading
Latin-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Lucas?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Lucas?
Lucas works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Lucas Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Lucas Rose
Floral · soft ending
Lucas Mae
Sweet · timeless
Lucas Claire
French influence · crisp
Lucas Jane
Literary · strong
Lucas Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Lucas right now?
Holding steady — currently #9 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #9 | 10,882 | ▼ down 1 · -1% births |
| 2022 | #8 | 10,962 | stable · -5% births |
| 2021 | #8 | 11,582 | stable · +3% births |
| 2020 | #8 | 11,281 | ▲ up 8 · -8% births |
| 2015 | #16 | 12,305 | ▲ up 19 · +19% births |
| 2010 | #35 | 10,377 | ▲ up 23 · +37% births |
| 2005 | #58 | 7,574 | ▲ up 25 · +57% births |
| 2000 | #83 | 4,818 | ▲ up 9 · +18% births |
| 1995 | #92 | 4,083 | ▲ up 20 · +32% births |
| 1990 | #112 | 3,087 | ▲ up 10 · +33% births |
| 1985 | #122 | 2,318 | ▼ down 24 · -25% births |
| 1980 | #98 | 3,083 | ▲ up 133 · +246% births |
| 1975 | #231 | 891 | ▲ up 414 · +457% births |
| 1970 | #645 | 160 | ▲ up 177 · +98% births |
| 1965 | #822 | 81 | — |
The story of Lucas
Lucas has been a beloved American name for over 143 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1881. It peaked at #8 in 2018, placing it among the top 10 most popular names. More than 276,759 babies have been named Lucas since 1881. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #892 in 1885 to #9 in 2023. Lucas is used for both genders: 0% female and 100% male.
Names that peaked alongside Lucas in 2018:
Lucas by decade
Lucas peaked in the 2010s. See all 2010s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 41 | |
| 1890s | 67 | |
| 1900s | 55 | |
| 1910s | 286 | |
| 1920s | 403 | |
| 1930s | 254 | |
| 1940s | 256 | |
| 1950s | 340 | |
| 1960s | 856 | |
| 1970s | 8,868 | |
| 1980s | 26,213 | |
| 1990s | 38,222 | |
| 2000s | 71,080 | |
| 2010s ★ | 118,530 | |
| 2020s | 11,288 | |
What are good nicknames for Lucas?
Famous people named Lucas
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George Lucas
Creator of Star Wars and Indiana Jones, one of the most successful filmmakers in history
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Lucas (Biblical evangelist)
Author of the Gospel of Luke, patron saint of artists and physicians
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Lucas Cranach the Elder
German Renaissance painter and close friend of Martin Luther, known for his portraits and altarpieces
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Lucas Moura
Brazilian professional footballer known for his iconic hat-trick in the 2019 Champions League semifinal
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Lucas Till
American actor known for his role as Angus MacGyver in the CBS reboot of MacGyver
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Celebrity Names
What celebrities named their babies in 2024
Explore →What names sound and feel like Lucas?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Lucas also consider these
How is Lucas written in other languages?
Common questions about the name Lucas
What does the name Lucas mean?
Lucas means "from Lucania" — a name rooted in Latin 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 Lucas?
Lucas is currently ranked #9 in the United States 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 Lucas?
Lucas originates from Latin tradition. Latin 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 Lucas?
Lucas is a two-syllable name pronounced L UW1 K AH0 S. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Lucas more of a girl or boy name?
Lucas is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.