Agnomen

An agnomen is a supplementary name or nickname, often awarded for a specific achievement, a notable characteristic, or a distinguishing event in a person's life, particularly prominent in ancient Roman society. Unlike a cognomen (a family name), an agnomen is a personal honorific, reflecting individual merit or circumstance. It served as a marker of distinction, further clarifying an individual's identity and legacy. It provided a means to both honor and immortalize individuals, etched into the annals of history as a testament to their contributions and impact.

Agnomen meaning with examples

• Scipio Africanus was the agnomen of Publius Cornelius Scipio, awarded for his decisive victory at the Battle of Zama in Africa, ending the Second Punic War. His triumph over Hannibal solidified his place as a Roman hero and earned him enduring fame. This agnomen perfectly encapsulated his strategic brilliance and military prowess, celebrated by the Senate.
• The Emperor Trajan was often referred to with the agnomen 'Optimus' (the Best) due to his exemplary reign and just rule, marked by extensive public works, military successes, and his concern for his citizens' well-being. His leadership created an era of unprecedented prosperity for the Roman Empire and he was revered by his people. 'Optimus' became a synonym of greatness.
• After his remarkable achievements in military campaigns and diplomacy, Gnaeus Pompeius was given the agnomen 'Magnus' (the Great), which was reflective of his power and military might. His rise to power and immense wealth were marked by ambition and led to a long-lasting impact on the Roman Republic. This nickname truly illustrated his influence.
• In Roman society, Cicero, famed for his eloquence, might hypothetically have been given an agnomen such as 'Orator' or 'Eloquent' (not a factual agnomen) following his notable speeches against Catiline. This hypothetical illustrates how agnomens recognized a skill. The agnomen would have then distinguished him further from others.
• After a specific battle that Julius Caesar had won that involved courage, the agnomen 'Invictus' (Unconquered) would have been a fitting agnomen, to celebrate his military achievements. It would have acted as a celebration of his power as a general. This nickname highlighted Caesar's military dominance.