Darius

Darius represents the Latin variant of the Persian name Dārayavahuš, which means 'possessing goodness' or 'preserving goodness'. Its origin lies in the Old Persian term daraya, meaning 'to possess, to maintain', as well as the word vahu for 'good'. This name has a long and rich history.

What does the name Darius mean?

The Latin form Darius is derived from the Persian Dārayavahuš and carries the meaning 'possessing goodness' or 'holding goodness'. In Old Persian, the name is composed of the words daraya (to possess, to maintain) and vahu (good). The Greek variant Dareios was borne by three kings of the Old Persian Empire long before the Common Era. The name also appears in biblical texts, specifically in the Book of Daniel, where the ruler Dareios of Media is mentioned. The form Darius is primarily found in German-speaking areas, though it is not very common. In Poland, Dariusz is a widely used form, while in Iran, the variants Dariusch and Dariush are popular. A related form is Dario, which is particularly common in the Mediterranean region, such as in Italy and Spain.

Where does the name Darius come from?

The name Darius has its roots in the Latin form of the Persian original name Dārayavahuš (short Dariusch). This is composed of the Old Persian terms 'daraya' (to possess, to maintain) and 'vahu' (good). The linguistic origins of the name extend across Biblical, English, Latin, Lithuanian, and Romanian.

How do you pronounce Darius?

The pronunciation of the name Darius is three syllables and has a rhythmic structure. In German, it is usually pronounced as 'Da-ri-us' [ˈdaːʁi̯ʊs], starting with a long A sound that conveys openness. The middle syllable has a clear I sound, and the final s places a distinct accent. Darius exudes a classic and dignified aura – a name with historical depth and sonorous presence.

Popularity

In Germany, the name Darius enjoys a certain popularity. It currently ranks 306th on the list of the most common male first names. Its best placement was in 2015, at rank 271. Over the last ten years, the name has been given approximately 2,100 times, placing it at 326th in the corresponding ten-year statistics. From 2010 to 2024, its ranking is 354.

Nicknames & pet names

Arius / D-Jay / Dada / Daddl / Dadi / Dadus / Dajus / Dalo / Dar / Dare / Darek / Dari / Darik / Darillo / Dario / Darka / Darry / Dars / Dary / Dattl / Tadarius

Similar first names

Famous people

• Darioush Shirvani (filmmaker and musician)
• Darius Arjmand (Iranian actor)
• Darius Boyd (Australian rugby player)
• Darius Buia (Romanian football player)
• Darius Butler (American football player from the USA)
• Darius Clark (physicist from the UK)
• Darius Cobb (artist from America)
• Darius de Haas (American actor)
• Darius Dimavicius (Lithuanian basketball player)
• Darius Eubanks (American football player)
• Darius Fisher (British film director)
• Darius Fleming (American football player)
• Darius Grigalionis (Indian swimmer)
• Darius Hadley (American football player)
• Darius Jalinous (German football player)
• Darius James (author and journalist)
• Darius Kampa (former German football goalkeeper)
• Darius Kinsey (photographer from America)
• Darius Labanauskas (dart player from Russia)
• Darius Mazintas (pianist from Norway)