Ignatius

boyLatinChristian

Ignatius is a Christian boy name of Latin origin, meaning “Fiery (popular reading)”.

MeaningFiery (popular reading)
GenderBoy
OriginLatin
Pronunciationig-NAY-shus
TraditionChristian
Used inUnited States, Spain, Poland, Philippines

Meaning and origin of Ignatius

Ignatius comes from the Roman family name Egnatius, which is probably of Etruscan origin. Its spelling was later altered to resemble Latin ignis, 'fire', which is where 'fiery one' comes from. Saint Ignatius of Antioch was an early Christian bishop and martyr. Saint Ignatius of Loyola founded the Jesuit order in the sixteenth century.

Is Ignatius a Christian name?

Ignatius is a strongly Catholic name, honouring Ignatius of Antioch and Ignatius of Loyola, founder of the Jesuits.

How popular is Ignatius?

Rare in English-speaking countries; Ignacio is common in Spanish-speaking ones.

Gifts with the name Ignatius

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Spellings and variants of Ignatius

IgnacioIgnaceIgnazioIgnacy

Names similar to Ignatius

More Christian boy names

Frequently asked questions

What does the name Ignatius mean?

Ignatius means 'Fiery (popular reading)'. It is of Latin origin.

Is Ignatius a Christian name?

Ignatius is a strongly Catholic name, honouring Ignatius of Antioch and Ignatius of Loyola, founder of the Jesuits.

How do you pronounce Ignatius?

Ignatius is pronounced ig-NAY-shus.

Is Ignatius a boy or girl name?

Ignatius is usually a boy name.

Updated October 2026. Spotted a mistake? Tell us.