Ancient Greek Names

Alternative (rarer) spelling of Roxanne.

Prometheus of Greek Mythology was a Titan known for creating humankind out of clay. He stole fire from the gods and gifted it to humanity, which triggered the rise of civilizations.

Prometheus might be better known as Ridley Scott's 2012 film of the same name.

Feminine form of Chrysanthos, meaning "golden flower". A unique option for a November baby (the November birth flower is a chrysanthemum) or to honor an ancestral Chris, Chrysanthe feels more wearable than the full Chrysanthemum, despite the storybook mouse.

This name of an ancient Greek historian sounds too long-ago and faraway to consider for a modern child.

Pelagios is one of the more outre of the sea-related names. But Pel could work as a short form -- or Gus.

A lengthy Olde World route to Nick.

Even more daunting than Nicodemus.

Think the letter X is always cool in names? Meet Eudoxia. An ancient name with a great meaning, associated with a number of saints and Byzantine royals, Eudoxia nonetheless sounds, to modern ears, more like the name of a skin disease or industrial solvent than a cute little girl. If you love it for some reason, variant spelling Eudocia might be a better bet.

In the Aristophenes comedy, Lysistrata is the Athenian woman who organizes her fellow wives to end war in their country by denying their husbands sex until a peace treaty is signed. Interesting thought, but rather unwieldy as a baby name.

The name of one of the greatest Western philosophers is often used as a first name in its land of origin, Greece, and would make a really interesting, thought-provoking choice here. It is remembered here as the nickname of the memorable character played by Sal Mineo in the classic film "Rebel Without a Cause."

Meaning "golden flower", this name was borne by a semi-legendary 3rd century saint.

The name of a 5th century Athenian general during the Peloponnesian War, fittingly derived from Greek nike "victory". He was largely responsible for the negotiations which led to the Peace of Nicias in 421 BC.

Philosopher who advocated the simple life. A classical choice that's almost unused as a baby name.

This rare name, used by a Byzantine saint, is not as attractive as other Greek "Eu" name like Eugenia, Eulalie and Eudora. This probably belongs in the footnotes of the history books.