Find out how popular the first name Silus has been for the last 19 years (from 2005 to 2023) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Silus by gender

Based on the last 19 years of data, Silus is exclusively a male name.

For the most recent data in 2023, there were 8 male babies and 0 female babies born with the name Silus.

The history of the first name Silus

The given name Silus has its origins rooted in ancient Roman culture, emerging during the classical era of the Roman Republic and the subsequent Roman Empire. This moniker is derived from the Latin word "silva," which translates to "wood" or "forest," indicating a potential connection to nature or rurality.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Silus can be found in the writings of the ancient Roman historian Livy, who documented the exploits of a Roman consul named Publius Silus during the Second Punic War against Carthage in the 3rd century BC. This historical figure played a pivotal role in the military campaigns against Hannibal, showcasing the significance of the name within Roman society.

The name Silus also made an appearance in various ancient Roman inscriptions and records, indicating its prevalence among the Roman populace. Notably, a Roman senator named Quintus Silus is mentioned in the writings of the renowned Roman philosopher and statesman Cicero, further solidifying the name's presence in the upper echelons of Roman society.

Throughout the centuries, several notable individuals have borne the name Silus. One such figure was Silus Italicus, a Roman poet and contemporary of the famous writer Martial, who lived during the 1st century AD. His epic poem "Punica" chronicled the events of the Second Punic War, providing a literary testament to the enduring significance of this conflict in Roman history.

Another prominent bearer of the name was Silus Avitus, a Roman nobleman and politician who served as a consul in the year 165 AD. His name is etched in the annals of Roman history, reflecting the continued use of the moniker among the elite classes of the Roman Empire.

During the Middle Ages, the name Silus resurfaced in various regions influenced by Roman culture. One notable figure was Silus of Lucca, an Italian scholar and bishop who lived in the 11th century. His contributions to religious and intellectual discourse exemplified the enduring legacy of the name across different eras and contexts.

While the name Silus may have fallen out of widespread use in more recent times, its rich historical lineage and deep-rooted connections to ancient Roman culture and literature serve as a testament to the enduring impact of this moniker on the tapestry of human civilization.

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 Silus was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

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

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