Lucas is a name with deep biblical and historical roots. It is the Latin form of the Greek name Loukas, which may have meant 'man from Lucania,' a region in southern Italy, or it may be connected to the Latin lux, meaning 'light.' The name is most famously associated with Luke, the author of the Gospel of Luke and the Acts of the Apostles in the New Testament. Luke was a physician and a companion of the Apostle Paul, and his Gospel is known for its emphasis on compassion and inclusion. The name has been popular across Europe for centuries and has become increasingly popular in the United States in recent decades. In the United States, Lucas has been a top 20 name, and its short form Luke has also been extremely popular. Its appeal comes from its biblical association, its meaning of light, and its warm, approachable sound.