Syracuse is the name of several places in the United States, including New York, which was named after the city in Italy, on the island of Sicily. It was originally founded in the 8th century BC as a Corinthian colony. Though the etymology of the name is unclear, it’s possible that it may be derived from a Phoenician word meaning “to feel ill” or “to stink”, in reference to its port being located near a swamp and smelling badly.
Origin: uncertain, possibly Phoenician
Variants:
- Siracusa (Italian)
- Sarausa (Sicilian)
- Surakousai (Ancient Greek)
Names Throughout the Ages 
Oh, what an unfortunate meaning! And I had no idea that Syracuse has been used as a given name. I could easily imagine it being used in honour/reference to st. Lucia of Syracuse or by parents who like very unusual place names.
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