Darius

Updated: October 14, 2023 by Stephanie Graham

Darius is a kingly name, dating back to Persian, Greek, and Roman regal families. It is now a popular option for children from any culture, however. Though once a top 200 name in America, Darius now has a top 600 ranking.

Meaning and Origin of the name Darius:

Darius is an English boy's name of Persian origin meaning “maintains possessions well” or “holding firm the good.”

Darius is the Roman version of the Greek name Dareios. Dareios is a form of the Persian name Darayavahush. It comes from the ancient Persian words daraya (meaning “to hold”) and vahu (meaning “good”).

Symbolism of the name Darius:

Darius means “upholder of the good” because of the ancient Persian baby name, Darayavahush. It comes from the words “daraya” and “vahu.” “Daraya” translates to “to possess” or “to uphold,” and “vahu” means “good.”

Nicknames for the name Darius:

Unfortunately, there aren't many nickname options for the name Darius. It can be shortened from the beginning to create the nicknames Dar and Dari. Darius can also be shortened from the end to create the nickname Ri. Below is a list of nicknames you may want to consider when finding a nickname for your baby boy.

Dar
Dari
Dee
Rius
Dare
Dare Bear
Dare to Dream
Riri
Ri

Style of the name Darius:

Classical

Gender of the name Darius:

Darius is a mature name for boys.

Pronunciation of the name Darius:

DAR-ee-us

Number of syllables in the name Darius:

Three

Emotion evoked from the name Darius:

Darius is a regal and formal name. It is strong and complex.

Alternative spellings for the name Darius:

Darrius
Daryus
Darryus

Popularity of the name Darius:

Darius became a top 1,000 baby name in 1952 at rank 915. It became a top 500 option in 1972 at number 460. The name did best as a top 200 name from 1989 to 1999, coming in highest at rank 152 in 1990 and 1991. As of 2020, Darius is a top 600 option at number 591.