Origin
Latin origin, from 'Legio' meaning 'legion' or 'military unit.' The term 'legion' appears in Roman texts and has been adopted into English to denote a large group or multitude. In Australian context, the word has historically been associated with military or large collective entities, and occasionally used metaphorically to denote a multitude of people or things.
Meaning
Literal meaning is 'a large military unit' or 'multitude.' In Australian English, used figuratively to refer to a vast number of people or things, often emphasizing strength or number.
Pronunciation
/ˈlɛdʒ.ən/ (LEJ-ən), with the stress on the first syllable, pronouncing the 'g' as in 'gene.' Australian English pronunciation is consistent with standard British English.
Variants & Nicknames
Variants
- Legion (English)
- Legião (Portuguese, used in Australian Portuguese communities)
- Légion (French influence)
Nicknames
- Leg
- Leo
Name Days
- 15 March (Feast of Saint Joseph, Patron of workers and builders, sometimes associated with collective effort)
- Undetermined (No formal name day tradition specifically for 'Legion') in Australia.
- 21 August (Feast of Saint Pius X, representing communal faith)
Name Pairings
Names that pair well with legion:
- Alexander and Legion
- James and Legion
- William and Legion
Fun Facts
- The term 'legion' is used in Australian military history, notably in World War I and II contexts.
- 'Legion' has been adopted as a name in some Australian punk and alternative music bands, symbolising collective strength.
- Sometimes used in marketing or branding to denote a large group or team, e.g., 'Legion of Fans'.
Personality Traits
Common traits associated with the name legion:
- Strong
- Collectivist
- Brave
- Commanding
Aesthetic Qualities
Bold and commanding visual impression, tends to evoke images of strength and unity. Suitable for logos or titles in graphic design contexts within Australia.
Geographical Distribution
Not regionally specific within Australia; usage is more literary or cultural than geographic. However, it may be more familiar in urban centres with military museums or history societies.
Numerological Significance
Name number 8 (according to Pythagorean numerology), associated with power, ambition, and material success in astrology; considered auspicious for leadership qualities.
Astrological Connections
Not directly associated with astrology, but the number 8 correlates with Capricorn and Scorpio in Western Zodiac, signifying discipline and intensity.
Historical Context
The word 'legion' appears in Australian military history, notably with the Australian Imperial Force units during World War I. The term has also been metaphorically used in Australian political discourse, especially in describing large, organized movements or groups within society.
Linguistic Adaptability
Adaptable across languages with variations such as 'Legione' in Italian, but in English and Australian English, remains 'Legion'. It is primarily used as a proper noun without significant morphological changes.
Famous People Named legion
- John 'Legion' McGregor (Australian writer)
- Fictional: 'Legion' in Australian comics and literature as a symbol of unity or collective strength.
- Anonymous Australian soldier known informally as 'Legion' due to collective service
Popularity in Australia
Year | Count |
---|---|
2016 | 1 |
2013 | 2 |