Gus

boyEnglish short form (Latin

Gus is an boy name of English short form (Latin, Germanic or Gaelic) origin, meaning “Great, venerable (as Augustus)”.

MeaningGreat, venerable (as Augustus)
GenderBoy
OriginEnglish short form (Latin, Germanic or Gaelic)
PronunciationGUS
TraditionModern & Classic
Used inUnited States, United Kingdom, Australia

Meaning and origin of Gus

Gus began as a nickname for several longer names: Augustus and Augustine, from Latin augustus meaning venerable or great; Gustav, a Scandinavian name usually explained as 'staff of the Geats'; and the Scottish Angus, from Gaelic for 'one choice'. The meaning therefore depends on which name it shortens. It now stands on its own as a friendly, old-fashioned given name.

Is Gus a religious name?

Gus has no particular religious background, though Augustine recalls Saint Augustine of Hippo.

How popular is Gus?

Used both as a nickname and, increasingly, as a full given name in English-speaking countries.

Gifts with the name Gus

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Spellings and variants of Gus

Names similar to Gus

More boy names

Frequently asked questions

What does the name Gus mean?

Gus means 'Great, venerable (as Augustus)'. It is of English short form (Latin, Germanic or Gaelic) origin.

Does Gus have a religious meaning?

Gus has no particular religious background, though Augustine recalls Saint Augustine of Hippo.

How do you pronounce Gus?

Gus is pronounced GUS.

Is Gus a boy or girl name?

Gus is usually a boy name.

Updated October 2026. Spotted a mistake? Tell us.