Marcelus is a rare, distinctive male given name of Latin origin, derived from 'Marcellus', meaning 'dedicated to Mars' and associated with strength and courage. It has a rich historical background, counting among its notable figures Saint Marcellus, a Christian martyr, and Marcelus, a character in Ann Radcliffe's 'The Mysteries of Udolpho'. Today, it is associated with intelligence and sophistication due to its rarity.