Popes and Antipopes

The yoo sound at the beginning of a name has not typically been attractive to the modern ear. Probably the most appealing form of this ancient name has been the feminized Eugenie, thanks to the British princess.

Fabian is the ancient name of a saint and pope that also has Shakespearean cred as Olivia's servant in Twelfth Night and more recently made an appearance in Harry Potter. In the U.S. Fabian became best known via the 1960s teen idol/singer who went solely by his first name.

Fabianus is a masculine name of ancient Roman origin, derived from Fabius, the name of a prominent Roman gens (family clan). The root connects to the Latin 'faba' meaning 'bean', as the Fabii family were originally bean farmers. The '-anus' suffix typically indicated adoption into or association with a family. The name carries historical gravitas through association with several notable historical figures, including Pope Fabian (236-250 CE), who led the early Church during a period of relative peace. While Fabianus remains rare in its full Latin form, its derivatives Fabian and Fabien have maintained modest popularity across Europe. The name conveys classical erudition, historical depth, and a connection to ancient Roman traditions, appealing to parents drawn to names with substantive etymological roots.

Felix is one of those ancient but nontraditional names for boys that have come into favor over the past few decades, a favorite of parents who want a masculine name with history and heft that breaks ranks with the standard Franks and Freds. Felix is also an international darling, ranking in the Top 100 in several European and English-speaking countries.

A Latin clan name that may rise again along with other things Roman.

Stately Gaius (pronounced GUY-us) was in the name of many ancient Romans, including Julius Caesar. Little-used before the year 2000, it now feels like a fresh possibility in the revival of Latin boys' names like Atticus and Cassius. Caius and derivatives like Caio come from the same root, and in ancient Roman times Caius was probably pronounced as Gaius. You could also see Gaius as a male version of the earth-goddess name Gaia.

Giovanni is a venerable Italian classic that suddenly sounds fresh and cool. Ubiquitous in Italy, it has countless notable namesakes, from writer Boccaccio to designer Versace (nn Gianni).