Darius

What does the baby name Darius mean? Learn about what Darius means, its history & origin, popularity in our random name database, pronunciation, similar names, nicknames & spelling variations.

Darius - Name Meaning, Origin & Popularity

Spelling of Darius: D-A-R-I-U-S, is a 6-letter male given name.
Pronunciation of Darius: DER-ee-əs; dah RYE us; DAYR ee us
Meaning of Darius: Wealthy, upholder of the good, a good and wealthy protector.
Origin of Darius: The name 'Darius' has its roots in ancient Persia, which is modern-day Iran. It is derived from the Old Persian name 'Dārayavahush', meaning 'he who holds firm the good'. 'Darius' was a common name among Persian kings, and it is believed to have been first used by 'Darius' I, also known as 'Darius' the Great, who ruled the Persian Empire from 522 to 486 BCE. 'Darius' the Great was known for his military campaigns, administrative reforms, and his construction of magnificent palaces and monuments.; American Names; English Names; Greek Names; Persian Names
Similar Names, Nicknames, & Spelling Variations of Darius: Dairus; Dario; Darrius; Derry
Popularity of Darius: The popularity of the name 'Darius' has varied over time. In ancient Persia, it was a name associated with royalty and power. However, its popularity declined in the centuries that followed. In more recent history, the name experienced a resurgence in the late 20th century, particularly in the United States and Europe. It reached its peak popularity in the 1990s, and since then, it has gradually declined in usage. Despite this decline, 'Darius' remains a recognizable and respected name in many cultures.; Darius currently has 168 likes, and is in the top 3% of liked boy's names. The name Emilio is slightly more popular than Darius.

Etymology of Darius

The name 'Darius' has its linguistic roots in Old Persian, which is an ancient Iranian language. The Old Persian name 'Dārayavahush' is composed of two elements 'Dāraya', meaning 'to hold' or 'to possess', and 'vahush', meaning 'good' or 'excellent'. When combined, these elements create the meaning 'he who holds firm the good'. This etymology reflects the qualities of strength, power, and goodness associated with the name 'Darius'.

Cultural Significance of Darius

The name 'Darius' holds great cultural significance in Persian history and mythology. In ancient Persia, it was associated with the kingship and represented the ideals of leadership, wisdom, and strength. The Persian Empire, under the rule of 'Darius' the Great and subsequent 'Darius'es, left a lasting impact on the world, influencing art, architecture, and governance. Today, the name 'Darius' is still highly regarded in Persian culture and is often given to boys as a symbol of pride and heritage.