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Gender Masculine
Other Forms FormsPigmentius, Pimenius, Pygmenius, Pymenius

Meaning & History

This name is best known for being the name of the 4th-century saint Pigmenius of Rome, who was martyred during the reign of the Roman emperor Julian the Apostate (died in 363 AD). Some sources suggest that he may possibly be the same person as saint Epigmenius of Rome (early 4th century AD).

The meaning and origin of his name is unknown. It might perhaps be of Greek origin, in which case it probably consists of the Greek noun πυγμή (pygme) meaning "fist" combined with the Greek noun μένος (menos) meaning "power, strength, spirit", thus giving the name the meaning of "powerful fist". Alternatively, the name ultimately comes from a hellenization of a foreign name, just like e.g. Pygmalion (variantly transcribed as Pigmalion).

And last but not least: since the saint is sometimes referred to as Pigmentius, it is also possible that his name is of Latin origin, in which case it is derived from the Latin noun pigmentum meaning "colour, pigment, paint".
Added 12/15/2018 by Lucille
Edited 2/26/2021 by Frollein Gladys