Find out how popular the first name Severus has been for the last 14 years (from 2011 to 2024) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Severus by gender

Based on the last 14 years of data, Severus is exclusively a male name.

For the most recent data in 2024, there were 11 male babies and 0 female babies born with the name Severus.

The history of the first name Severus

The name Severus has its origins in the Latin language and was commonly used in ancient Rome. It is derived from the Latin word "severus," which means "stern," "strict," or "severe." The name Severus reflects the Roman values of discipline, austerity, and seriousness.

During the Roman Empire, the name Severus was popular among the upper classes and was often given to sons of noble families. It was also used by several Roman emperors, including Septimius Severus, who ruled from 193 to 211 AD. Septimius Severus was born in Leptis Magna (modern-day Libya) and was the first Roman emperor of African descent.

Another notable figure in history with the name Severus was Cassius Severus, a Roman orator and satirist who lived in the 1st century BC. He was known for his biting wit and sharp criticism of the Roman elite, which earned him both admiration and contempt from his contemporaries.

In the early Christian era, the name Severus was also borne by several saints and religious figures. One of the most famous was Saint Severus of Ravenna, who lived in the 4th century AD and served as the Bishop of Ravenna. He was known for his piety and charitable works, and his feast day is celebrated on February 1st in the Catholic Church.

In the Middle Ages, the name Severus continued to be used, although it was less common than in ancient times. One notable bearer of the name was Severus Boethius, a Roman philosopher and statesman who lived in the 6th century AD. He is best known for his work "The Consolation of Philosophy," which he wrote while imprisoned and awaiting execution.

During the Renaissance and Early Modern periods, the name Severus experienced a resurgence in popularity, particularly among scholars and intellectuals who were influenced by classical Roman culture. One notable figure from this time was Severus Ambrosius Fenarius, an Italian humanist and philosopher who lived in the 15th century.

Other notable individuals with the name Severus throughout history include Severus Snape, a fictional character from the Harry Potter series by J.K. Rowling, and Severus of Antioch, a 6th-century Monophysite Patriarch of Antioch.

Data source

The first name data used on this page comes from the Social Security Administration (SSA). They've been collecting data on baby names since 1880.

The history and meaning of the name Severus was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

If you have a correction or suggestion to improve the history of Severus, please contact us.

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