Cyrus

Sun, throne — a boy name of Persian origin

GenderBoy
OriginPersian
MeaningSun, throne
PronunciationSY-rus

Popularity of Cyrus in the United States

#268Rank in 2025
1,284Births in 2025
#216 in 1880Peak Popularity
↑ Rising10-Year Trend

Data: U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA). Based on all Social Security card applications for births in the United States.

Meaning & Origin of Cyrus

Cyrus derives from the Old Persian name Kurush, whose meaning is debated but often interpreted as "sun," "throne," or "young." The most famous bearer was Cyrus the Great, the founder of the Achaemenid Persian Empire in the 6th century BC, who was celebrated for his respect of conquered peoples and is sometimes called the first champion of human rights. The Cyrus Cylinder, an ancient clay document, is considered one of the earliest declarations of religious and ethnic tolerance. The name was adopted by English-speaking Puritans due to the biblical account of Cyrus freeing the Jews from Babylonian captivity. In modern times, it has gained fresh cultural visibility through the Cyrus family of entertainment.

Cyrus Around the World

Cyrus is used in 3 languages worldwide, with 6+ international variants.

Languages
IcelandicPolishEnglish
Details

Female FormKiira

International Variants
Kyros
KouroshPersian
CýrusIcelandic
KirRussian
CírusHungarian
KoreshiSwahili

Linguistic data: Wikidata (CC0). Variants and language usage may vary by region.

Nicknames for Cyrus

CyRuss

Famous People Named Cyrus

  • Cyrus the Great — founder of the Persian Empire
  • Cyrus Vance — American Secretary of State
  • Miley Cyrus — American singer and actress (born Destiny Hope Cyrus)

Similar Names to Cyrus

If you like Cyrus, you might also consider these names with a similar feel.

Also consider:Darius

Sibling Name Ideas for Cyrus

Looking for names that pair well with Cyrus? Here are some sibling name suggestions that share a similar style and feel.

AthenaDariusHelenaOrionPersephone

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the name Cyrus mean?

Cyrus is a boy name of Persian origin meaning "Sun, throne." Cyrus derives from the Old Persian name Kurush, whose meaning is debated but often interpreted as "sun," "throne," or "young." The most famous bearer was Cyrus the Great, the founder of the Achaemenid Persian Empire in the 6th century BC, who was celebrated for his respect of conquered peoples and is sometimes called the first champion of human rights.

How do you pronounce Cyrus?

Cyrus is pronounced SY-rus. Common variations include Kyrus, Ciro, Kurush.

Is Cyrus a boy name?

Yes, Cyrus is traditionally a boy name. Popular nicknames include Cy, Russ.

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