Who Named the Months? Origins and Meanings of Month Names Explained

Discover how the ancient Romans named the months and the origins behind each month's name in this concise explanation.

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The months were named by ancient Romans. Januarius (January) honors Janus, Februarius (February) from februa (purification), Martius (March) for Mars, Aprilis (April) possibly from Aphrodite, Maius (May) for Maia, Junius (June) for Juno, Quintilis (July) renamed for Julius Caesar, Sextilis (August) for Augustus, and the rest are derived from Latin numbers: Septem (seven), Octo (eight), Novem (nine), and Decem (ten).

FAQs & Answers

  1. Why are some months named after Roman gods? Several months are named after Roman gods to honor them, such as Martius for Mars, the god of war, and Junius for Juno, the goddess of marriage and childbirth.
  2. Which months were renamed after Roman leaders? Quintilis was renamed July to honor Julius Caesar, and Sextilis was renamed August for Emperor Augustus.
  3. What is the significance of the numbers in the month names? Some months like September, October, November, and December are derived from Latin numbers seven, eight, nine, and ten, reflecting their original positions in the Roman calendar.
  4. What is the origin of the name February? February comes from 'februa,' a Latin word referring to purification rituals held during that month in ancient Rome.

Watch More

For more fascinating insights into the history of the calendar and month names, explore our related videos on the Roman calendar reforms and the evolution of timekeeping across cultures.

  1. Why January Has 31 Days: The Julius Caesar Reform Discover how Julius Caesar's calendar reform in 46 BCE established January as a month with 31 days.
  2. Why Do Some Months Have 31 Days? Understanding the Roman Calendar Origins Discover why some months have 31 days and how Julius Caesar’s calendar reform shaped the modern calendar.