What does Magnus mean and where does it come from?
Magnus has a rich history, notably used by several kings of Norway and Sweden, contributing to its regal connotation. The name has been used throughout various European cultures, particularly in Scandinavia and the English-speaking world. It symbolizes strength, greatness, and leadership. Notable hi
Cultural significance
Magnus has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Latin-speaking communities, where it reflects values of latin.
Peak popularity
Reached #720 in 2017 — currently #764 in the US.
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Related Reading
Latin-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Magnus?
Magnus works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Magnus Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Magnus Rose
Floral · soft ending
Magnus Mae
Sweet · timeless
Magnus Claire
French influence · crisp
Magnus Jane
Literary · strong
Magnus Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Magnus right now?
Rising — up 10 spots — currently #764 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #764 | 337 | ▲ up 10 · +3% births |
| 2022 | #774 | 327 | ▼ down 44 · -8% births |
| 2021 | #730 | 354 | ▲ up 76 · +24% births |
| 2020 | #806 | 285 | ▲ up 45 · +8% births |
| 2015 | #851 | 263 | ▲ up 297 · +63% births |
| 2010 | #1148 | 161 | ▲ up 187 · +42% births |
| 2005 | #1335 | 113 | ▲ up 803 · +140% births |
| 2000 | #2138 | 47 | ▲ up 2167 · +236% births |
| 1995 | #4305 | 14 | ▼ down 109 · +8% births |
| 1990 | #4196 | 13 | ▲ up 1013 · +86% births |
| 1985 | #5209 | 7 | ▼ down 396 · +40% births |
| 1970 | #4813 | 5 | ▼ down 1415 · -29% births |
| 1960 | #3398 | 7 | ▼ down 560 · -12% births |
| 1950 | #2838 | 8 | ▲ up 591 · +60% births |
| 1945 | #3429 | 5 | — |
The story of Magnus
Magnus has been a beloved American name for over 134 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1890. With 4,455 total births recorded, Magnus remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #1152 in 1890 to #764 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Magnus in 2017:
Magnus by decade
Magnus peaked in the 2010s. See all 2010s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1890s | 21 | |
| 1900s | 29 | |
| 1910s | 122 | |
| 1920s | 132 | |
| 1930s | 66 | |
| 1940s | 23 | |
| 1950s | 39 | |
| 1960s | 17 | |
| 1970s | 29 | |
| 1980s | 73 | |
| 1990s | 211 | |
| 2000s | 1,027 | |
| 2010s ★ | 2,381 | |
| 2020s | 285 | |
💎With 4,455 total births, Magnus is an uncommon but established name.
What are good nicknames for Magnus?
Famous people named Magnus
M(
Magnus (Roman senator or statesman)
Magnus held this name during the height of Roman civilization, when Latin names spread across Europe.
M(
Magnus (Renaissance scholar)
Magnus used this name during the Latin revival of the Renaissance, reinforcing its classical prestige.
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Celebrity Names
What celebrities named their babies in 2024
Explore →What names sound and feel like Magnus?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Magnus also consider these
How is Magnus written in other languages?
Common questions about the name Magnus
What does the name Magnus mean?
Magnus means "Latin" — 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 Magnus?
Magnus is currently ranked #764 as a boy name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Magnus?
Magnus 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 Magnus?
Magnus is a two-syllable name pronounced M AE1 G N AH0 S. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Magnus a classic or a modern name?
Magnus has Latin roots that go back thousands of years, making it a genuine classic rather than a modern invention. Its staying power across generations reflects its fundamental appeal and the strength of its meaning.