Cassian is a name of Latin origin, derived from the Roman family name Cassius. The name Cassius is believed to have been derived from the Latin word "cassus," which means "empty" or "hollow." However, some sources suggest that it may also be derived from the Etruscan god Casisius.
The name Cassian first appeared in history with Saint Cassian of Imola, who was a bishop in the 4th century. He is said to have been martyred for his faith during the persecutions under Emperor Diocletian. Since then, the name has been associated with figures of authority and spirituality.
In literature, the name Cassian gained popularity through the works of French writer Albert Camus. His novel "The Plague" features a character named Dr. Rieux whose first name is Cassian. This character is portrayed as intelligent, compassionate, and dedicated to his work, which may have contributed to the increase in popularity of the name Cassian.
Today, Cassian is still used as a given name for boys, particularly in English-speaking countries. It is often associated with strength, intelligence, and spirituality due to its historical and literary connections. However, it remains relatively uncommon compared to other names, making it a unique choice for parents looking for a distinctive name for their child.
"Cassian is an uncommon yet steadily growing boys' name in the United States. According to recent data, there were only 5 newborns named Cassian in 2017. However, this number has since increased, with 9 babies given the name in 2023. Over these years, a total of 14 little ones have been welcomed into the world as Cassians."