Lucian

A shining choice for your little bright one, Lucian is a boy's name of Latin origin meaning "light." Derived from the Latin root lux and the classic Roman name Lucius, Lucian brings a rich heritage with a warm, illuminated vibe. Over the centuries, it has belonged to a variety of influential historical figures, including Lucian of Samosata—a famous 2nd-century Syrian-Greek satirist often considered one of the earliest pioneers of science fiction—as well as renowned painter Lucian Freud. Lucian also has links to early Christian history through several saints, most notably St. Lucian of Antioch, a prominent theologian and martyr.

Lucian has a gentle flow and subtle nature, similar to feminine alternatives like Lucy and Luciana, but firmly holding its masculine presence. We think The Bump member Helenahhandbasket puts it best: "I would put this name in the same category as Julian—obviously male, but softer sounding." Whether your child grows up to be a creative artist, a thoughtful philosopher or a guiding presence in your family, the name Lucian will help them shine their light wherever life leads.

Fun Facts About the Name Lucian

• Sci-fi in the ancient era: Lucian of Samosata is widely considered the father of science fiction. All the way back in the 2nd Century CE, he wrote A True Story (aka True History), a satire featuring outer space travel, alien life and even interplanetary warfare!
• Fame runs in the family: The famous British figurative painter Lucian Freud was the grandson of none other than psychoanalyst Sigmund Freud. Sigmund was very interested in the arts and psychoanalyzing artists (of course), so we like to think he would have been proud of his grandson's success.
• The 100-year revival: Lucian is following in the footsteps of many vintage names and is returning to the charts with a newfound love and popularity amongst modern parents.