Angelus is a unique and distinctive given name of Latin origin. It is derived from the Latin word "angelus," which means "angel." The name has been popular among Catholics for centuries, as it is associated with the Angelus prayer, a traditional Catholic prayer said three times daily to mark the hours of the Annunciation, the Crucifixion, and the Resurrection.
The name Angelus first appeared in Italy during the Middle Ages. It was often given to children born around Christmas or Easter time, as these holidays have special significance for Catholics. Over time, the name spread throughout Europe and beyond, becoming a popular choice among Catholic families around the world.
In many cultures, Angelus is considered a unisex name, although it is more commonly associated with males in some countries. Despite its religious origins, the name has also gained popularity among non-Catholic families who are drawn to its unique sound and meaning.
One of the most famous figures named Angelus was Pope Angelus (also known as Pope Honorius III), who served as the head of the Catholic Church from 1216 to 1227. He is remembered for his efforts to combat heresy and promote the crusades against the Muslims in the Holy Land.
Today, Angelus remains a uncommon but beloved given name among families who appreciate its unique sound and religious significance. It is often paired with middle names such as Joseph, Michael, or Gabriel, which are also associated with angels in Christianity. Overall, Angelus is a name that carries a rich history and profound meaning, making it an excellent choice for parents looking for a distinctive and meaningful name for their child.
Based on the statistics provided, the name Angelus has seen varying popularity over the past two decades in the United States.
In 1999, there were only five births with the name Angelus. However, this number increased significantly in the following years, reaching a peak of 31 births in 2003. This indicates that during these years, Angelus was becoming more widely used as a baby boy's name.
After 2003, the popularity of the name Angelus began to fluctuate. There were periods where the number of births with this name decreased, such as between 2008 and 2010 when it dropped from 15 to 11 births per year. However, there were also years where its popularity seemed to stabilize or even increase slightly.
From 2013 onwards, the number of Angelus births has generally been around the single digits, with some exceptions such as 2020 and 2023 where it was recorded at ten births each year. This could indicate that while Angelus is not one of the most popular names in recent years, it still remains a unique choice for parents.
Overall, over the span of these two decades, there have been a total of 365 babies named Angelus born in the United States. Despite its varying popularity, this name continues to be chosen by parents who want something distinctive and uncommon for their child.