Ursinus is a Medieval Latin masculine given name, meaning "little bear" or "bear-like". It is a derivative of the Latin name Urs, which itself comes from Ursus, meaning "bear". Etymology The name Ursinus directly stems from the Latin adjective ursīnus, meaning "bear" or "ursine." This word was used as a cognomen in late antiquity and emerged as a given name by the 8th century CE, as attested in early medieval records. The Roman root Ursus was popular among early Christians, commemorating several saints, and led to various diminutive or affectionate forms, including Ursinus. Historical Context Saint Ursus is a 3rd-century martyr said to have been a soldier of the Theban Legion, beheaded for refusing to renounce Christianity. He is the patron saint of Solothurn in Switzerland, which helped popularize the name in that region. While the derivative Ursinus was less common, it appeared in medieval German territories, particularly in Saxony and Bavaria, and was recorded in necrologies (monastic registers of the dead) from these areas. Related Names The Italian form Orsino (meaning "little bear") shares the same etymology. Other cognates in Romance languages include French Oursin (archaic), and the feminine Italian Orsina. Meaning: Little bear Origin: Latin Type: Given name Usage: Medieval Latin, early medieval Germany