Maurus

Maurus is a historical male first name that goes back to the Roman name Mauricius. Its roots lie in Latin. The German translation of the name means 'the one from Mauretania', 'the Moor', or 'the dark-skinned one'.

What does the name Maurus mean?

The name Maurus has its origins in the Roman surname Mauricius and is of Latin origin. Translated, it means 'the one from Mauretania', 'the Moor', or 'the dark-skinned one'. The Latin word maurus stands for 'dark-skinned', while the ancient Greek terms amaurós (ἀμαυρός) mean 'dark, black, the Moor' and amáurosi (αμαύρωση) mean 'burned, tanned, bronzed'. The Moors, often referred to as Moors, were not Black Africans, but rather brown and dark-haired Arabs. Particularly in the Middle Ages, the name gained importance through the veneration of Saint Maurus, who became known in the 6th century as a student of Saint Benedict. Additionally, Saint Mauritius in the 4th century contributed to the name's popularity; he is regarded as the leader of the Theban Legion in Switzerland. Variants of the name include Mauritius, Maurice, Mauriz, Mauro, Maur, Maurece, Mauri, Mauritz, Maurids, Maurits, Maurin, Maurilio, Maurizio, Mauricio, Maury, and Maurycy, as well as alternative spellings like Morice, Moriz, Moritz, Moric, and Morris. The name is also common as a surname.

Where does the name Maurus come from?

The origin of the name Maurus is Latin, with the meaning 'the one from Mauretania'. The Latin word maurus means 'dark-skinned', while the ancient Greek terms amaurós (ἀμαυρός) mean 'dark, black, the Moor' and amáurosi (αμαύρωση) mean 'burned, tanned, bronzed'. It is used in the German language.

How do you pronounce Maurus?

The pronunciation of Maurus is two syllables and has a classic emphasis. It is pronounced as 'Mau-rus' [ˈmaʊrʊs] or [ˈmaːʊrʊs], starting with a diphthong that conveys movement. The ending '-us' gives the name an ancient quality and a slightly hissing sound. Maurus sounds traditional, full, and structured.

When is the name day of Maurus?

The name day of Maurus is celebrated on January 15 to honor Saint Maurus of Subiaco.

Popularity

In Germany, Maurus is a rather rare first name. Currently, it ranks 5,840th in the list of the most popular male first names. Its best placement was in 1937 at rank 227. In the last ten years, the name has been given about 30 times, placing it at 4,803rd in the ten-year statistics. Between 2010 and 2024, it ranks 4,537th.

Nicknames & pet names

Mau / Mauri / Mue / Möri

Famous people

• Maurus Carnot (poet from Switzerland)
• Maurus Gerner-Beuerle (German theologian)
• Maurus Gervase Komba (bishop from Tanzania)
• Maurus Haberhauer (composer)
• Maurus Hagel (German theologian)
• Maurus Kallina (French architect)
• Maurus Lindemayr (English writer)
• Maurus Rost (German historian)
• Maurus Vom Scheidt (German film director)
• Maurus von Pecs (bishop from Hungary)
• Maurus Wolter (German theologian)