Ancient Roman & English: Roman family name which was possibly derived from Latin cassus “empty, vain”. This name was borne by several early saints. In modern times, it was the original first name of boxer Muhammad Ali (1942-), who was named after his father Cassius Clay, who was himself named after the American abolitionist Cassius Clay (1810-1903). (Behindthename.com)
Popularity in 2008: #945 (USA) Cassius Clay was an abolitionist and the birth name of Muhammad Ali; also a Shakespearean name with the feel of antiquity that is coming into fashion. It was recently chosen for his son by Bobby Brown.Variations:Casseus, Cassio, Casshus, Casius. (nameberry.com)
New Zealand Baby Names 