Augie

Origin & Etymology

Augie is an affectionate diminutive of August or Augustus, the Latin name meaning great or venerable, from the Latin augere (to increase, to grow). Augustus was the honorific title given to Gaius Octavius when he became the first Roman Emperor in 27 BCE — a name so prestigious that it became the root of the word August (the month) and augment. Today Augie is used both as a nickname and as a standalone given name.

Popularity Story

Augie gained renewed cultural visibility through R.J. Palacio's 2012 novel Wonder, whose lovable protagonist Auggie Pullman inspired many parents to consider the name. Before that, it was a vintage American nickname used in the early-to-mid 20th century, now rising again as part of the trend toward old-fashioned nicknames as given names.

Cultural Significance

The August family of names carries the weight of Roman imperial history — Augustus Caesar transformed Rome and gave his name to an entire month. As a nickname, Augie softens this grandeur into something warm and approachable.

Fun Facts

• Augustus Caesar is the reason August has 31 days — he wanted his month equal to Julius Caesar's July
• The novel Wonder's protagonist Auggie Pullman brought this name to a new generation
• Augment, inauguration, and august (the adjective) all share the same Latin root as Augie

Augie in Other Languages