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Updated August 7, 2024

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Boy name origins & meanings

What does Austin mean and stand for?

Meaning:

  • Latin: Great, magnificent; useful
  • English: Worthy of respect

Gender: Male

Syllables: 2

Pronunciation: The name Austin is pronounced aws-tin

The name Austin has roots in the Latin name "Augustine," which means great or magnificent. It has been used in English-speaking countries for centuries and typically symbolizes greatness, dignity, and respect. With historical importance and widespread use, Austin remains a strong and respected choice for a baby name.

Boy name variations

How Popular Is The Name Austin

Family name origins & meanings

English, French, and German: from the personal name Austin, a vernacular form of Latin Augustinus, a derivative of Augustus. This was an extremely common personal name in every part of Western Europe during the Middle Ages, owing its popularity chiefly to St. Augustine of Hippo (354–430), whose influence on Christianity is generally considered to be second only to that of St. Paul. Various religious orders came to be formed following rules named in his honor, including the "Austin canons", established in the 11th century, and the "Austin friars", a mendicant order dating from the 13th century. The popularity of the personal name in England was further increased by the fact that it was borne by St. Augustine of Canterbury (died c. 605), an Italian Benedictine monk known as "the Apostle of the English", who brought Christianity to England in 597 and founded the see of Canterbury.

German: from a reduced form of the personal name Augustin.

American: this was the name of a merchant family that became well established in eastern MA in the 17th century, notably in Charlestown. Richard Austin came from England and landed at Boston in 1638, and his son Anthony was clerk of Suffield, CT, in 1674. The surname is very common in England as well as America; this Richard Austin was only one of a number of bearers who brought it to North America.

Famous people who gave their babies this name

Austin in Pop Culture

Do you know these fictional characters that share this first name?

  • Austin Powers from Austin Powers Series - A quirky and humorous British secret agent famous for his catchphrases and groovy style.
  • Austin Moon from Austin & Ally - A charismatic and talented singer striving for stardom alongside his songwriting partner, Ally.
  • Austin Clifford from The Real World: Austin - One of the cast members from the Austin season of the MTV reality show, known for his dynamic personality and interactions with other housemates.
  • Austin Tucker from Make It or Break It - A dedicated gymnast training for the Olympics who experiences various personal and professional pressures.
  • Austin James from Whiz Kids - A teenage computer expert and sleuth who uses his tech savvy to solve crimes and mysteries.

Popularity of the Name Austin

According to the Social Security Administration, Austin has seen fluctuating popularity in the U.S. over the years. Austin began as an Angelo-Saxon surname and moved to become a given name in medieval times. It peaked in the 1990s and early 2000s, consistently ranking within the top 50 names during that period. In recent years, its popularity has slightly declined but it remains a well-loved name.

Historically, notable Austins include Stephen F. Austin, known as the "Father of Texas," and Austin Powers, the fictional character from the Austin Powers film series. Additionally, actors like Austin Butler and writer Austin Kleon have carried the name into the public eye. Fictional characters named Austin also appear in shows like The Suite Life on Deck and movies such as Spy Kids

Where Is the Name Austin popular?

This name is most popular across certain states in the U.S., including those highlighted on the map below.

Nicknames for Austin

These shortened names can make great nicknames for your baby.

  • Auss
  • Aust
  • Auzzie

Austin Pairs Well With These Middle Names

Looking for a middle name that fits perfectly? Consider these!

Appears On

Browse these related baby name lists that feature this name and many, many more!

People Who Like the Name Austin Also Like

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