Gnaeus

/ˈniːəs/ noun

Definition

A common Roman praenomen (first name), often abbreviated as 'Cn.' in inscriptions and historical texts.

Etymology

From Latin 'gnaeus,' probably from an Etruscan root, used as a given name in ancient Rome, similar to how we use 'John' or 'Michael' today.

Kelly Says

Many famous Romans had this name—Gnaeus Pompeius Magnus (Pompey the Great) was one of Julius Caesar's greatest rivals, and knowing Roman names helps historians identify exactly which person they're reading about in ancient texts.

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