August

Full of sunshine and charm, August is a beautiful gender-neutral name steeped in ancient majesty. Rooted in Latin history, August comes from the title Augustus, which translates to "exalted" or "venerable.” But this distinguished moniker traces its linguistic ancestry even further back to the Latin verb augere, meaning "to increase" or "to grow."

Historically, the name entered the collective consciousness through Gaius Octavius, the pioneering first Roman Emperor who was granted the sacred title "Augustus Caesar" by the Roman Senate to mark his supreme status. To immortalize his triumphs, the eighth month of the year—originally known as Sextilis—was officially renamed Augustus in his honor.

Across the centuries, the name has been shared by powerful kings, saints and visionaries alike. Today, the name August is loved for its versatility; it feels simultaneously classic and modern.

For book and movie lovers, the name is especially resonant, frequently appearing as a favorite moniker for memorable literary and on-screen characters. Take it from The Bump forum user LadyB01, who says: “I love it! It reminds me of August Rush, the movie. I always associate the name with music and musicians.”

Fun Facts About the Name August

• It replaced the "weed month": Before the British and Anglo-Saxon world fully adopted the Latin-based Julian calendar, the month we now call August was referred to in Old English as Weodmonað, which literally translates to "weed month" or "grass month," signifying the abundant seasonal vegetation.
• Pop culture royalty's top pick: The name has experienced a massive modern revival among Hollywood A-listers. High-profile celebrities including Princess Eugenie, Mariska Hargitay, Mandy Moore and country star Garth Brooks have all chosen this name for their children.
• A hidden link to Austin: If you’re looking for a sleek, shortened variation of the name August with a historical twist, look no further than Austin. "Austin" actually developed during the Middle Ages as the popular, everyday English vernacular contraction of Augustine and Augustus.