Octavian Becomes Augustus Octavian was sole ruler of Rome after his forces defeated Antony and Cleopatra at the Battle of Actium The Senate gave him the name Augustus, meaning most high 23 BCE – Octavian, now referred to as Augustus, was made consul for life by the Senate –Also made Princeps, meaning first citizen Origin of the word prince –Also made Imperator, meaning successful general Origin of the word emperor –Also made Pontifex Maximus, or chief religious leader Origin of the word pontiff (used to describe the pope today) –Also made a tribune –He had the power to call the Senate, veto the Senate’s laws, and make laws himself