Meaning & History
Rome is an English given name derived directly from the name of the city of Rome, the capital of Italy.
Etymology and Origin
The city's name, Roma in Italian, has ancient origins. According to tradition, it is linked to Romulus, the mythical founder of Rome. The meaning of the name Rome is uncertain; it may come from the Etruscan word ruma, meaning "teat," referencing the she-wolf that nursed Romulus and Remus, or from the Greek rhome meaning "strength." As a given name, Rome is used primarily in English-speaking countries, often as a topographic or prestige name evoking the grandeur of the ancient Roman Empire.
Notable Bearers
The most famous individual with this name is the American football player Rome Odunze, a wide receiver for the Chicago Bears. The name also appears in popular culture, such as in the character Rome Howard from the television series Everybody Hates Chris.
Related Forms
Variants of the name include the French Romain and Roméo, the Catalan Romà, and the Dutch Romein. The diminutive Romey is also in use.
- Meaning: From the name of the city of Rome
- Origin: English, derived from Italian Roma
- Type: Given name
- Usage Regions: English-speaking countries