Linus

Updated: August 30, 2021 by MomsWhoThink Staff

The baby name Linus has made a few appearances on the list of the top 1,000 baby names in the United States over the years, but it hasn't been a mainstay, and it hasn't been on the list since 1940. That may make it sound like a “grandpa name,” but in reality, most of us associate it with an adorable little comic strip character who loves his blanket and the Great Pumpkin. It's time for Linus to make a comeback as a beloved name for baby boys.

Meaning of the name Linus:

Greek: Flax

Origin of the name Linus:

Linus is derived from the Greek word “linári,” which means flax. The flax plant is used to make fibers, and its seeds are eaten or used in recipes.

Symbolism of the name Linus:

In Greek mythology, Linus was a great musician, lyricist and speaker. For this reason, Linus may symbolize the arts to some new parents.

Style of the name Linus:

Traditional

Gender of the name Linus:

Linus is a boy's name.

Pronunciation of the name Linus:

LYE-nus

Number of syllables in the name Linus:

Two

Emotion evoked from the name Linus:

The name Linus evokes images of someone who is intelligent.

Alternative spellings for the name Linus:

Lynus
Linnus
Lynnus

Nicknames for the name Linus:

Popularity of the name Linus:

According to the Social Security Administration, Linus ranked on and off the list of the top 1,000 baby names for boys in the United States throughout the early half of the 20th century. It ranked in 1913, between 1915 and 1921, in 1925, in 1926 and in 1940. It last ranked at number 957 in 1940.