Lionginas / Longinus / Longin

Lionginas is the Lithuanian form of the Roman cognomen Longinus. The name derives from the Latin word 'longus', meaning 'long'. It gained prominence through Saint Longinus, the Roman soldier traditionally identified as the one who pierced Jesus' side with a spear at the Crucifixion. Though not explicitly named in the Gospels, later Christian tradition gave him this name.

The name has been used in Lithuania for centuries, particularly within Catholic communities, due to the veneration of Saint Longinus. Its usage reflects the historical and religious ties between Lithuania and Western European Christian traditions. While not extremely common, it has maintained a consistent presence as a traditional Lithuanian male name.