Etymology Publius is a Latin praenomen, or given name, derived from the Latin word populus meaning "public" or "the people." The name is closely related to the adjective pūblicus, also meaning "public." In ancient Rome, it was one of the most common given names, abbreviated as "P." in inscriptions. The Old Latin variant Poplios reflects the early form of the name before the loss of the initial vowel. History and Cultural Context As a traditional praenomen, Publius was used by members of many prominent Roman families, including the patrician Valerii, the Aelii, and the gens Ovidia. Notable bearers include: Publius Valerius Publicola (6th century BCE), one of the founders of the Roman Republic who served as consul and was known for his wise policies. Publius Ovidius Naso (43 BCE–17 CE), the poet known as Ovid, author of Metamorphoses and Ars Amatoria. Publius Aelius Hadrianus, better known as Hadrian, emperor of Rome (117–138 CE) famed for the Hadrian's Wall in Britain and his cosmopolitan rule. Notable Bearers in Detail One of the earliest famous bearers is Publius Valerius Publicola, whose name literally means "friend of the people." According to tradition, he enacted laws guaranteeing citizenship rights and open elections after the fall of the monarchy. Another significant bearer, Publius Ovidius Naso, was a prolific poet of the Augustan era, exiled by the same emperor under whose rule he flourished. Finally, the emperor Hadrian was born as Publius Aelius Hadrianus; he is known for building a defensive wall across northern Britain and for the grand villa at Tivoli. Related Names and Derivatives The name has descendants in modern languages, including Italian Publio and Spanish Publio. Its popularity in ancient times gave rise to various forms such as the Old Latin Poplios. The name was also famously linked to Cicero in the political writings of Publius, a pseudonym used by Alexander Hamilton, James Madison, and John Jay in the Federalist Papers. Key Facts Meaning: "public" (from Latin populus) Origin: Ancient Rome Type: Praenomen (given name) Regions Used: Roman Empire (primarily Italy) Notable Bearers: Virgil (poet, birth name assumedly Virgil being his full style), Ovid, Emperor Hadrian