Primus

“first” — Associated with figures in early Christianity

Latin origin · Boy name

♂ 97% boys♀ 3% girls

#11904US 2023

6Births / yr

↓Falling

188All-time births

📅 Since 188100

How to pronounce Primus

PREYE·mus

/ˈpraɪ.məs/ · stress on PREYE · 2 syllables

“first”

Associated with figures in early Christianity · Latin origin

What does Primus mean and where does it come from?

This name originates from Latin, where it means 'first'. Primus was historically used as a first name in ancient Rome. The name has been associated with figures in early Christianity, including saints. Although not commonly used today, Primus is occasionally utilized in various cultures and may be f

Cultural significance

Primus has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Latin-speaking communities, where it reflects values of latin.

Peak popularity

Reached #983 in 1881 — currently #11904 in the US.

🌿

What middle names flow best with Primus?

Primus works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful

Primus Grace

How popular is Primus right now?

Falling — down 5593 spots — currently #11904 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names

US Trend 1915–2023#11904 · Top 8.8%

1915

1920

1925

1930

1945

1950

1970

1975

1980

2023

Year	US Rank	Births	vs Prior Year
2023	#11904	6	▼ down 5593 · +20% births
1980	#6311	5	▼ down 794
1975	#5517	5	▼ down 740
1970	#4777	5	▼ down 1722 · -29% births
1950	#3055	7	▲ up 334 · +40% births
1945	#3389	5	▲ up 251 · -17% births
1930	#3640	6	▼ down 668 · -33% births
1925	#2972	9	▼ down 186 · -10% births
1920	#2786	10	▲ up 640 · +67% births
1915	#3426	6	—

Name Popularity Timeline

Popularity Statistics for Primus

Best Year1920Rank #2786

Peak Count10

Average Rank#4778

Current Trend↘Falling

Data Range1915 - 202310 years

The story of Primus

Primus has been a beloved American name for over 143 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1881. With 188 total births recorded, Primus remains relatively uncommon. Once ranked #3426 in 1915, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #11904 in 2023.

Names that peaked alongside Primus in 1881:

John William James George Charles

Primus by decade

Primus peaked in the 1880s. See all 1880s names →

Decade	Births
1880s	10
1910s	18
1920s ★	48
1930s	6
1940s	20
1950s	39
1960s	5
1970s	26
1980s	5
2000s	5
2010s	6

💎Primus has only 188 total recorded births since 1881 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.

What are good nicknames for Primus?

Common

PriPrimPrimiePrimyImus

Famous people named Primus

Primus (Renaissance scholar)

Primus used this name during the Latin revival of the Renaissance, reinforcing its classical prestige.

Primus (Renaissance scholar)

Primus used this name during the Latin revival of the Renaissance, reinforcing its classical prestige.

Primus (historical Roman figure)

Primus carried this name during the Roman Empire, giving it the enduring weight of classical civilization.

👑

Celebrity Names

What celebrities named their babies in 2025

Explore →

What names sound and feel like Primus?

Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Primus also consider these

How is Primus written in other languages?

Common questions about the name Primus

What does the name Primus mean?

Primus 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 Primus?

Primus 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 Primus?

Primus 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 Primus?

Primus is a two-syllable name pronounced P R AY1 M AH0 S. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.

Is Primus a common or rare name?

Primus is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.