All about the name

Castor

Male

« Castor is a Latin-origin name meaning 'beaver', derived from the Latin word 'castor'. »

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Meaning, origin, history

Castor is a name of Latin origin that means "beaver." It is derived from the Latin word "castor," which refers to the beaver animal. The name Castor has been used throughout history and has been associated with various figures in mythology, literature, and history. In Roman mythology, Castor was one of the two Dioscuri, along with his twin brother Pollux. They were known for their bravery and skill in combat, and were often invoked as protectors by sailors. The constellation Gemini is named after them, with each twin represented by one of its stars. Castor has also been used as a given name throughout history. In the Middle Ages, it was a popular name among the nobility in France, where it was often paired with its counterpart Pollux. Some notable figures bearing the name Castor include Saint Castor of Sens, a martyr from the 4th century who is considered one of the Four Crowned Martyrs; and Castor Pouyer-Quertier, a French mathematician and engineer from the 19th century. Today, Castor remains a relatively uncommon but unique given name. It has been used in various forms throughout history and across different cultures, making it a versatile choice for parents looking for an unusual yet meaningful name for their child.

In numbers

Popularity of the name Castor since 1880

Total births
352
Total since 1880
Peak year
2016
29 births
in 2023
11
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
+23%
vs previous 5 years