Ancient Greek Names
- Apollonius
Origin:
Greek, LatinisedMeaning:
"from Apollo"Description:
A dramatic classical name connected to the god of medicine and archery, we think just Apollo is a more wearable choice for a modern boy. Significant namesakes include Apollonius of Tyana, the 1st-century Greek philosopher and religious leader, Apollonius of Perga, an ancient Greek geometer and astronomer known for his work on conic sections, and Apollonius of Rhodes, the ancient Greek author of the Argonautica, an epic poem about Jason and the Argonauts. Apollonius is the Latinised form of the name, while the Greek original is Apollonios.
- Eugenios
Description:
Eugenios is a masculine name of Greek origin, representing the traditional Greek form of Eugene. The name derives from the Greek words "eu" meaning "good" or "well" and "genos" meaning "born" or "race," together signifying "well-born" or "noble." Historically, it was popular among early Christians and was borne by several saints and four popes. Eugenios has remained more common in Greece and Greek communities worldwide, while variations like Eugene, Eugenio, or Eugène gained popularity in other cultures. The name carries connotations of dignity and refinement. Although less common in contemporary naming trends outside of Greek-speaking regions, Eugenios offers a distinguished classical option with a rich historical legacy.
- Aristoteles
Origin:
GreekMeaning:
"superior"Description:
The original Ancient Greek form of Aristotle. This variant could help separate the name from its heavy namesake, while still having a clear connection to it. Good for lovers of philosophy, Ancient Greece, or dramatic boy names. In Greece, this name is still in common use with the Aristotelis spelling.
- Pausanias
Origin:
GreekMeaning:
"relieving sorrow, stopping grief"Description:
An ancient name with a beautiful meaning, but the sound may be a bit too grand for a modern child to wear. Pausanias was a 2nd-century writer famous for his Description of Greece, a work recounting his observations while travelling in classical Greece. Another historical namesake, Pausanias the Regent, was a significant Spartan regent and a general.
- Aikaterine
Description:
Aikaterine is a feminine name representing the original Greek form of Katherine. It derives from the Greek 'Aikaterinē,' though its exact etymology remains debated. Some scholars connect it to the Greek word 'katharos' meaning 'pure,' while others suggest links to the goddess Hecate or the Greek 'aikia' (torture), referring to St. Catherine's martyrdom on the wheel. This traditional form maintains the authentic Greek spelling and pronunciation (eye-kah-teh-REE-neh), offering historical depth compared to the more common Katherine variants. While rare in English-speaking countries, it remains closer to forms still used in Greece. The name carries an air of classical elegance and learned sophistication, appealing to parents drawn to names with historical authenticity and cultural significance rather than modernized adaptations.
- Hecabe
Origin:
Greek, literary nameDescription:
Hecabe (or Hekabe) is an alternate form of Hecuba, a character from Homer's Iliad. In the story, she is the wife of King Priam of Troy and the mother of Hector, Paris, Cassandra and others. One of the more obscure names from the Iliad, but one with potential, with its energetic ending reminiscent of Phoebe and the possibility for the cute nickname Bea.
- Eunike
Description:
Eunike is a feminine name with ancient Greek origins, derived from 'Eunice' meaning 'good victory' or 'happy victory' from the elements 'eu' (good) and 'nike' (victory). The name has biblical significance as Eunike appears in the New Testament as the mother of Timothy, a companion of the Apostle Paul. This spelling variation with a 'k' instead of 'c' reflects the original Greek spelling more closely. While relatively uncommon in English-speaking countries, Eunike has seen some usage in parts of Europe and among families looking for names with classical or biblical roots. The name conveys positive connotations of triumph, success, and joy, while maintaining a graceful, feminine quality.
- Orestis
Origin:
GreekMeaning:
"from the mountain"Description:
The Greek form of Orestes. An interesting and morally gray character from Greek myth, drama and literature, and a somewhat common name in Greece. It would be a handsome and unexpected choice for anyone with Greek heritage, fans of Greek mythology, or for nature lovers who are inspired by its meaning. Shortened to Ori or Ozzie, it becomes even more usable internationally.
- Achilleas
Origin:
Greek, meaning unknownDescription:
While Achilles is a considered a brave choice for a baby name, the modern Greek form of it is used regularly in Greece in honour of the Homeric hero. This variant lacks the "kill" syllable of Achilles, but its pronunciation would be a bigger challenge internationally.