Marcus
Marcus is a boy name of Latin origin meaning “Dedicated to Mars”, pronounced MAR-kus. It ranked #258 in the United States in 2025, given to 1,341 babies, and peaked at #57 in 1984. Common nicknames: Marc, Mark, Mars.
How popular is Marcus in the United States?
Data: U.S. Social Security Administration (SSA). Based on all Social Security card applications for births in the United States.
What does Marcus mean, and where does it come from?
Marcus is a Roman praenomen (first name) derived from Mars, the Roman god of war. It was one of the most common names in ancient Rome, borne by many notable figures including the philosopher-emperor Marcus Aurelius and the orator Marcus Tullius Cicero. The name may also be connected to the Latin word "mas" meaning "male" or "virile." Marcus has been in continuous use for over two thousand years, maintaining its classical dignity while adapting to modern sensibilities. It remains a strong, distinguished choice with deep historical roots.
How is Marcus used around the world?
Marcus is used in 3 languages worldwide, with 12+ international variants.
TypeMale given name
Linguistic data: Wikidata (CC0). Variants and language usage may vary by region.
What are the nicknames for Marcus?
Famous People Named Marcus
- Marcus Aurelius — Roman emperor and Stoic philosopher
- Marcus Rashford — English professional footballer
- Marcus Samuelsson — Ethiopian-Swedish celebrity chef
Similar Names to Marcus
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Sibling Name Ideas for Marcus
Looking for names that pair well with Marcus? Here are some sibling name suggestions that share a similar style and feel.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the name Marcus mean?
Marcus is a boy name of Latin origin meaning "Dedicated to Mars." Marcus is a Roman praenomen (first name) derived from Mars, the Roman god of war. It was one of the most common names in ancient Rome, borne by many notable figures including the philosopher-emperor Marcus Aurelius and the orator Marcus Tullius Cicero.
How do you pronounce Marcus?
Marcus is pronounced MAR-kus. Common variations include Markus, Marco, Marcos.
Is Marcus a boy name?
Yes, Marcus is traditionally a boy name. Popular nicknames include Marc, Mark, Mars.