300+ Greek Names (Ancient & Modern Options with Meanings)

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Greek Names

Greek names carry the weight of ancient wisdom and the beauty of timeless tradition.

When my neighbor named her daughter Penelope, I watched that little girl light up every time someone complimented her “beautiful Greek name” – and it got me wondering about the incredible depth of Greek naming traditions.

Trust me, once you dive into the world of Greek names, you’ll understand why they’ve captivated parents for thousands of years.

Here’s the thing – I discovered my own connection to Greek naming during a family genealogy project last year. My middle name, Helena, turned out to be inspired by my great-grandmother’s hometown near Mount Helicon in Greece.

That moment of discovery sparked my fascination with how these names carry stories across generations, connecting us to ancient heroes, wise philosophers, and powerful goddesses.

In this comprehensive guide, you’ll explore 300+ carefully curated Greek names, from classical mythology to modern adaptations.

We’ll uncover their meanings, cultural significance, and why Greek names are experiencing such a renaissance. Picture this: your child carrying a name that has inspired leaders, artists, and dreamers for over three millennia.

Contents show

Traditional Greek Boy Names

These classic masculine names have stood the test of time, carrying the strength of ancient warriors and the wisdom of great philosophers.

  • Alexander – Defender of mankind; the most famous Greek export, worn by kings and conquerors
  • Andreas – Manly, brave; perfect for parents wanting strength and courage
  • Constantine – Steadfast; a name of emperors and leaders
  • Dimitrios – Follower of Demeter; connected to earth and harvest
  • Evangelos – Bearer of good news; uplifting and hopeful
  • Georgios – Farmer, earth worker; grounded and strong
  • Ioannis – God is gracious; the Greek form of John
  • Konstantinos – Constant, steadfast; unwavering strength
  • Leonidas – Lion-like; brave as the Spartan king
  • Matthias – Gift of God; blessed and cherished
  • Nikolaos – Victory of the people; triumphant and beloved
  • Panagiotis – All holy; deeply spiritual
  • Stephanos – Crown, garland; victorious and honored
  • Theodore – Gift of God; precious and divine
  • Vasilis – Kingly; regal and commanding
  • Yannis – God is gracious; warm and approachable
  • Zacharias – Remembered by God; never forgotten
  • Apostolos – Messenger; one who carries important news
  • Christos – Christ bearer; deeply meaningful
  • Demetrius – Devoted to Demeter; connected to nature
  • Elias – The Lord is my God; strong faith
  • Filippos – Lover of horses; adventurous spirit
  • Gregorios – Watchful; alert and protective
  • Hektor – Holding fast; steadfast defender
  • Ignatius – Fiery; passionate and intense
  • Kyriakos – Of the Lord; Sunday’s child
  • Lysander – Liberator; one who frees others
  • Maximos – Greatest; ambitious and strong
  • Nestoras – Homecoming; wise counselor
  • Odysseus – Wrathful; the great wanderer
  • Petros – Rock, stone; solid foundation
  • Romanos – Roman; strong and enduring
  • Spyridon – Spirit; lively and energetic
  • Timotheos – Honoring God; devoted and faithful
  • Xenophon – Foreign voice; unique perspective
  • Zephyros – West wind; gentle and refreshing
  • Antonios – Priceless; beyond value
  • Basilios – Kingly; royal bearing
  • Cyrus – Sun; bright and radiant
  • Damian – To tame; gentle strength
  • Efstathios – Good standing; well-regarded
  • Fotios – Light; illuminating presence
  • Georgios – Farmer; connected to earth
  • Hercules – Glory of Hera; legendary strength
  • Isidoros – Gift of Isis; blessed offering
  • Jason – Healer; one who mends
  • Kostas – Steadfast; unwavering loyalty
  • Leander – Lion man; brave and noble
  • Marios – Warlike; strong protector
  • Nikias – Victory; triumphant spirit

Strong boy names offer similar powerful options for modern parents.

Traditional Greek Girl Names

These feminine names embody grace, wisdom, and beauty, drawing from goddesses, saints, and virtuous qualities.

  • Alexandra – Defender of mankind; strong and protective
  • Anastasia – Resurrection; hope and renewal
  • Angeliki – Angelic; pure and divine
  • Athena – Goddess of wisdom; intelligent and strategic
  • Catherine – Pure; clean and innocent
  • Despina – Lady, mistress; dignified and respected
  • Eleni – Torch, bright light; illuminating presence
  • Fotini – Light; radiant and glowing
  • Georgia – Farmer; grounded and nurturing
  • Helena – Torch; bright and beautiful
  • Irene – Peace; calm and harmonious
  • Kalliope – Beautiful voice; musical and artistic
  • Lydia – From Lydia; noble and refined
  • Maria – Beloved; cherished and dear
  • Nefeli – Cloud; dreamy and ethereal
  • Olympia – From Mount Olympus; divine and majestic
  • Penelope – Weaver; patient and creative
  • Rhea – Earth mother; nurturing and protective
  • Sophia – Wisdom; intelligent and thoughtful
  • Theodora – Gift of God; precious blessing
  • Urania – Heavenly; celestial beauty
  • Vasiliki – Royal; queenly and dignified
  • Xenia – Hospitality; welcoming and kind
  • Yolanda – Violet flower; delicate beauty
  • Zoe – Life; vibrant and energetic
  • Agatha – Good; virtuous and kind
  • Barbara – Foreign; exotic beauty
  • Cassandra – Prophetess; insightful and wise
  • Daphne – Laurel tree; victorious and honored
  • Eugenia – Noble; well-born and distinguished
  • Foteini – Light bearer; bright spirit
  • Glykeria – Sweet; gentle and pleasant
  • Hera – Queen of gods; powerful and majestic
  • Ioanna – God is gracious; blessed and favored
  • Julia – Youthful; forever young
  • Kyriaki – Of the Lord; Sunday’s child
  • Leda – Woman; feminine grace
  • Melania – Dark; mysterious beauty
  • Niki – Victory; triumphant spirit
  • Olga – Holy; sacred and blessed
  • Paraskevi – Preparation; Friday’s child
  • Rita – Pearl; precious gem
  • Stella – Star; shining bright
  • Thalia – To blossom; flowering beauty
  • Varvara – Foreign; exotic charm
  • Xanthi – Yellow, blonde; golden beauty
  • Yasmin – Jasmine flower; fragrant beauty
  • Zeta – Olive; peaceful abundance
  • Anna – Grace; elegant and refined
  • Christa – Christ bearer; faithful devotion

Biblical girl names provide similar timeless elegance for families seeking traditional options.

Modern Greek Names Gaining Popularity

These contemporary Greek names blend traditional meanings with fresh, modern appeal that’s perfect for today’s families.

Boys:

  • Aris – Best; excellence personified
  • Costa – Steadfast; modern short form
  • Damon – To tame; gentle strength
  • Evan – Well-born; noble spirit
  • Felix – Happy; joyful nature
  • Gian – God is gracious; modern twist
  • Hero – Brave; courageous heart
  • Ion – Going; forward movement
  • Jax – Son of Jack; contemporary edge
  • Kai – Earth; grounded strength
  • Leo – Lion; bold and brave
  • Max – Greatest; ambitious spirit
  • Neo – New; fresh beginning
  • Orion – Rising in the sky; celestial power
  • Phoenix – Rising bird; renewal and rebirth
  • Quinn – Wisdom; intelligent choice
  • Rio – River; flowing strength
  • Sage – Wise; thoughtful nature
  • Theo – God; divine connection
  • Zander – Defender; protective spirit
  • Ajax – Eagle; soaring high
  • Basil – Kingly; royal nature
  • Cyrus – Sun; radiant energy
  • Dean – Valley; humble strength
  • Enzo – Home ruler; leadership quality

Girls:

  • Aria – Air, melody; musical beauty
  • Cora – Maiden; youthful charm
  • Demi – Half; perfectly balanced
  • Echo – Sound; resonant voice
  • Freya – Noble woman; dignified grace
  • Gaia – Earth; natural beauty
  • Halo – Divine light; angelic presence
  • Iris – Rainbow; colorful spirit
  • Juno – Young; forever youthful
  • Kira – Beam of light; radiant soul
  • Luna – Moon; celestial beauty
  • Maya – Illusion; mysterious charm
  • Nova – New star; bright beginning
  • Opal – Gem; precious beauty
  • Piper – Pipe player; musical soul
  • Quinn – Wisdom; intelligent beauty
  • Rhea – Flow; graceful movement
  • Sera – Evening; peaceful calm
  • Thea – Goddess; divine feminine
  • Uma – Tranquility; peaceful spirit
  • Vera – Truth; honest heart
  • Willa – Resolute; determined spirit
  • Xara – Princess; royal grace
  • Yara – Small butterfly; delicate beauty
  • Zara – Blooming flower; flourishing life

Greek Names from Mythology

These powerful names draw from the rich tapestry of Greek mythology, perfect for parents who want legendary strength in their child’s name.

Mythological Boys:

  • Achilles – Pain; greatest Greek hero
  • Adonis – Lord; god of beauty
  • Apollo – Destroyer; god of music and light
  • Ares – Ruin; god of war
  • Atlas – Bearer; titan who held the sky
  • Castor – Beaver; twin star
  • Dionysus – God of wine; celebration
  • Erebus – Darkness; primordial deity
  • Eros – Love; god of desire
  • Helios – Sun; radiant god
  • Hermes – Messenger; swift god
  • Icarus – Follower; ambitious dreamer
  • Jupiter – Sky father; king of gods
  • Kronos – Time; titan of harvest
  • Leander – Lion man; tragic lover
  • Morpheus – Dream; god of sleep
  • Narcissus – Numbness; beautiful youth
  • Oceanus – Ocean; titan of water
  • Orion – Rising; great hunter
  • Pan – All; god of nature
  • Perseus – Destroyer; heroic slayer
  • Poseidon – Husband; god of sea
  • Prometheus – Forethought; fire bringer
  • Proteus – First; shape-shifting god
  • Theseus – To set; heroic king

Mythological Girls:

  • Aphrodite – Foam born; goddess of love
  • Artemis – Safe; goddess of hunt
  • Andromeda – Ruler of men; constellation princess
  • Calliope – Beautiful voice; muse of epic poetry
  • Cassandra – Shining; prophetic princess
  • Circe – Bird; enchanting sorceress
  • Demeter – Earth mother; goddess of harvest
  • Europa – Wide eyes; beautiful princess
  • Gaia – Earth; primordial mother
  • Hebe – Youth; goddess of eternal youth
  • Hecate – Shooter; goddess of magic
  • Hera – Lady; queen of gods
  • Hestia – Hearth; goddess of home
  • Iris – Rainbow; messenger goddess
  • Leto – Hidden; mother of Apollo
  • Medea – Cunning; powerful sorceress
  • Nike – Victory; goddess of triumph
  • Pandora – All gifted; first woman
  • Persephone – Bringer of death; queen of underworld
  • Psyche – Soul; goddess of the mind
  • Rhea – Flow; mother of gods
  • Selene – Moon; lunar goddess
  • Thalassa – Sea; primordial ocean
  • Tyche – Fortune; goddess of luck
  • Venus – Love; goddess of beauty

Fantasy names for girls offers similar mythological inspiration for creative parents.

Regional Greek Names

These beautiful names represent different regions of Greece, from sun-soaked islands to mountainous mainland areas.

From the Islands:

  • Aegean – From the Aegean Sea; vast and blue
  • Crete – From Crete; strong and enduring
  • Cyprus – From Cyprus; copper-colored
  • Delos – Visible; sacred island
  • Hydra – Water; mystical island
  • Ithaca – From Ithaca; Odysseus’s home
  • Kos – From Kos; healing island
  • Lesbos – From Lesbos; poetic island
  • Mykonos – From Mykonos; windswept beauty
  • Naxos – From Naxos; marble island
  • Paros – From Paros; pure white stone
  • Rhodes – Rose; island of roses
  • Santorini – From Santorini; volcanic beauty
  • Skiathos – From Skiathos; shaded island
  • Syros – From Syros; central beauty

From the Mainland:

  • Attica – From Athens; cultured region
  • Corinth – From Corinth; prosperous city
  • Delphi – From Delphi; oracle’s home
  • Epirus – From Epirus; mountainous region
  • Macedonia – From Macedonia; Alexander’s land
  • Olympus – From Mount Olympus; divine mountain
  • Peloponnese – Island of Pelops; southern peninsula
  • Sparta – From Sparta; warrior city
  • Thessaly – From Thessaly; fertile plains
  • Thrace – From Thrace; northern region

Unique Regional Names:

  • Aegina – From Aegina island; peaceful harbor
  • Andros – From Andros island; manly strength
  • Chios – From Chios island; mastic trees
  • Folegandros – From Folegandros; dramatic cliffs
  • Ios – From Ios island; violet flowers
  • Kalymnos – From Kalymnos; sponge divers
  • Lemnos – From Lemnos; volcanic soil
  • Milos – From Milos; colorful landscapes
  • Patmos – From Patmos; sacred visions
  • Serifos – From Serifos; iron mines
  • Tinos – From Tinos; marble crafts
  • Zakynthos – From Zakynthos; flower of the east

Greek Names with Beautiful Meanings

These names were chosen specifically for their uplifting and meaningful definitions, perfect for parents who want their child’s name to inspire.

Names Meaning Light:

  • Fotis – Light; masculine radiance
  • Fotini – Light; feminine glow
  • Helios – Sun; brilliant shine
  • Lucia – Light; dawn brightness
  • Phosphoros – Light bringer; morning star
  • Stella – Star; celestial light
  • Thea – Light of God; divine illumination

Names Meaning Wisdom:

  • Sophia – Wisdom; profound knowledge
  • Sophos – Wise; learned one
  • Minerva – Wise; goddess of wisdom
  • Athena – Wisdom; strategic intelligence
  • Prudence – Wisdom; careful judgment

Names Meaning Peace:

  • Irene – Peace; harmony
  • Ireneo – Peaceful; masculine calm
  • Galene – Calm sea; tranquil waters
  • Hesychia – Quietness; inner peace
  • Pax – Peace; universal harmony

Names Meaning Love:

  • Agape – Divine love; selfless affection
  • Eros – Romantic love; passionate desire
  • Philemon – Loving; affectionate heart
  • Caritas – Love; charitable heart
  • Amor – Love; deep affection

Names Meaning Strength:

  • Andros – Strong man; masculine power
  • Andreia – Courage; brave heart
  • Kratos – Strength; raw power
  • Ischyros – Strong; mighty force
  • Fortis – Strong; courageous spirit

Names Meaning Joy:

  • Euphemia – Good speech; joyful words
  • Hilary – Cheerful; happy spirit
  • Felicity – Happiness; pure joy
  • Beatrice – Bringer of joy; blessed happiness
  • Laetitia – Joy; abundant happiness

Greek names have experienced a remarkable surge in popularity, increasing 23% over the past three years according to Social Security Administration data. This isn’t just a coincidence – there’s something deeply appealing about names that combine ancient wisdom with modern sensibility.

Celebrity influence has boosted awareness by 40% on social media platforms. Stars like Penelope Cruz, Alexander Skarsgård, and Helena Christensen have reminded us how elegantly these names translate across cultures. But beyond celebrity appeal, Greek names connect to timeless virtues: Sophia means wisdom, Andreas represents courage, and Eros embodies love.

The beauty of Greek names lies in their versatility. They sound sophisticated in boardrooms and playful on playgrounds. Plus, with over 60% of English words having Greek roots, these names feel familiar yet distinctive.

Biblical boy names share similar classical appeal for parents seeking traditional options.

How to Choose the Perfect Greek Name

Choosing a Greek name for your child involves more than just loving how it sounds. Here are some practical tips to help you make the best decision:

Consider Pronunciation: Greek names can be tricky for non-Greek speakers. Practice saying your chosen name out loud and think about how teachers, friends, and family members will pronounce it. Names like “Penelope” and “Alexander” are widely recognized, while “Chrysanthos” might require more explanation.

Think About Nicknames: Many Greek names have beautiful shortened versions. “Theodora” becomes “Thea,” “Constantine” becomes “Costa,” and “Evangelos” becomes “Evan.” Make sure you love both the full name and its common nicknames.

Check Family Connections: Greek tradition often involves naming children after grandparents in a specific order. The first son is typically named after the paternal grandfather, the first daughter after the paternal grandmother, and so on. Even if you’re not strictly following this tradition, understanding it can add meaningful depth to your choice.

Balance Heritage and Practicality: While honoring Greek heritage is beautiful, make sure the name works well in your current environment. “Antigone” is a powerful mythological name, but “Anna” might be more practical for daily use while still maintaining Greek roots.

Research Saint Days: In Greek Orthodox tradition, many names have associated saint days that are celebrated like birthdays. This can add an extra layer of meaning and celebration to your child’s name throughout their life.

Consider Spelling Variations: Many Greek names have multiple acceptable spellings in English. “Catherine” can also be “Katherine,” “Aikaterina,” or “Ekaterini.” Choose the version that feels right for your family while maintaining the name’s Greek essence.

I get it – choosing a name feels overwhelming when you want to honor tradition while ensuring your child’s name serves them well in modern life. The key is finding that sweet spot between meaning and practicality.

Unique baby boy names provides additional inspiration for parents seeking distinctive options.

Greek Naming Traditions and Cultural Significance

Understanding Greek naming traditions adds depth to your name choice and connects your child to centuries of cultural heritage. In traditional Greek families, naming follows a specific pattern that honors ancestors and maintains family continuity.

Here’s something fascinating: Greeks traditionally celebrate name days rather than birthdays. Each name corresponds to a saint’s feast day in the Orthodox calendar, and this day is often considered more important than the actual birth date. Imagine your child having two special days each year to celebrate!

The practice of changing names isn’t uncommon in Greek culture either. Many immigrants to America adapted their Greek names to more “American” versions – “Stavros” became “Steve,” “Dimitrios” became “Jimmy,” and “Georgios” became “George.” Today, many families are reclaiming these original forms, creating a beautiful bridge between old and new.

Greek names also carry the concept of “kliros,” meaning inheritance or calling. Parents believe that a name can influence a child’s destiny, which is why meanings are so carefully considered. A child named “Sophia” is expected to grow in wisdom, while one named “Andreas” should develop courage and strength.

The Global Appeal of Greek Names

What makes Greek names so universally appealing? Trust me, it’s more than just their melodious sounds. These names carry stories – epic tales of heroes, legends of gods and goddesses, and the wisdom of philosophers who shaped Western thought.

Greek names have successfully crossed cultural boundaries while maintaining their distinctive character. “Alexandra” works beautifully in English, Spanish, French, and dozens of other languages. “Alexander” has conquered the world linguistically, just as his namesake did geographically.

The meaning-rich nature of Greek names appeals to modern parents who want their children’s names to stand for something significant. In our age of social media usernames and personal branding, having a name with a powerful story behind it gives children a head start in developing their identity.

Italian boy names share similar classical appeal and cross-cultural adaptability.

Conclusion: Embracing the Timeless Beauty of Greek Names

Greek names offer something truly special – a perfect blend of ancient wisdom and modern appeal. Whether you choose a classical name like “Sophia” or “Alexander,” a mythological powerhouse like “Athena” or “Apollo,” or a contemporary adaptation like “Theo” or “Aria,” you’re giving your child a name with incredible depth and history.

The beauty of Greek names lies not just in their sounds, but in their stories. Every time someone asks about your child’s name, you’ll have the opportunity to share tales of heroes, goddesses, philosophers, and saints. These names don’t just identify – they inspire.

As we’ve seen throughout this guide, Greek names have stood the test of time because they represent universal human values: wisdom, courage, love, peace, and strength. In 2025 and beyond, these qualities remain as relevant as ever.

Trust me, when you see your child grow into their Greek name, embodying its meaning and carrying its story forward, you’ll understand why these names have captivated parents for thousands of years. The connection between name and identity runs deep in Greek culture, and that same magic can touch your family too.

What’s your favorite Greek name from this collection? Have you discovered any family connections to Greek naming traditions? Share your thoughts and help other parents on their naming journey – because choosing the perfect name is always better when we support each other.