300+ Greek Names for Boys (Mythological, Classical & Contemporary Options)

Greek names for boys are experiencing an incredible renaissance, and honestly, it’s about time!

Last month at my local coffee shop, I watched a confident little boy named Thaddeus order his hot chocolate with the kind of poise that seemed to match his ancient Greek name perfectly.

His mom later told me she chose it because it means “courageous heart” – and watching this kid navigate the busy café, I could see that name was already shaping his character.

Whether you’re drawn to the heroic strength of mythological names, the wisdom of classical philosophers, or simply love the melodic sound of Greek pronunciation, this comprehensive guide will walk you through 300+ incredible options that blend ancient power with modern appeal.

Mythological Powerhouses

These names come straight from Mount Olympus and ancient Greek tales. Each one tells a story of power, wisdom, or heroic adventure:

• Apollo – God of music, poetry, and the sun; perfect for creative souls
• Ares – God of war; strong and memorable with modern appeal
• Atlas – Titan who held up the heavens; symbolizes incredible strength
• Dionysus – God of wine and celebration; unique with “Dion” nickname potential
• Hermes – Messenger god; great for quick-witted, communicative kids
• Helios – Personification of the sun; bright and optimistic
• Orion – Mighty hunter constellation; currently trending in modern nurseries
• Perseus – Hero who slayed Medusa; legendary courage
• Theseus – Hero of Athens; sophisticated with great nickname “Theo”
• Zeus – King of the gods; ultimate power name for bold parents
• Adonis – God of beauty and desire; surprisingly wearable today
• Eros – God of love; short, sweet, and meaningful
• Hades – God of the underworld; edgy choice for alternative families
• Icarus – Flew too close to the sun; poetic and artistic
• Morpheus – God of dreams; mystical and intriguing
• Oceanus – Titan of the sea; perfect for water-loving families
• Pan – God of nature; simple yet profound
• Poseidon – God of the sea; majestic with “Po” nickname
• Prometheus – Titan who gave fire to humans; intelligent and rebellious
• Triton – Sea god; strong sound with mythological depth
• Zephyr – God of the west wind; gentle yet powerful
• Chronos – God of time; philosophical and unique
• Hyperion – Titan of light; celestial and grand
• Nereus – Old man of the sea; wise and oceanic
• Thanatos – Personification of death; definitely for alternative families only

Classical Heroes & Historical Figures

These names belong to real historical figures who shaped civilization. They carry gravitas and intellectual appeal:

• Alexander – “Defender of men”; the great conqueror’s name remains timeless
• Aristotle – Greatest philosopher; perfect for future intellectuals
• Plato – Renowned philosopher; surprisingly modern-sounding
• Socrates – Father of philosophy; wise and thoughtful choice
• Leonidas – “Lion-like”; the Spartan king who stood at Thermopylae
• Pericles – Golden Age leader; sophisticated and stately
• Demosthenes – Greatest orator; excellent for future communicators
• Archimedes – Brilliant mathematician; perfect for STEM families
• Herodotus – Father of history; scholarly and distinguished
• Pythagoras – Mathematical genius; ideal for logical thinkers
• Xenophon – Historian and soldier; adventurous spirit
• Aeschylus – Tragic playwright; artistic and dramatic
• Sophocles – Master dramatist; creative and literary
• Euripides – Innovative playwright; forward-thinking choice
• Pindar – Greatest lyric poet; musical and poetic
• Homer – Epic poet; simple name with enormous literary weight
• Heraclitus – Pre-Socratic philosopher; deep and contemplative
• Epicurus – Philosopher of happiness; joyful philosophy
• Diogenes – Cynic philosopher; unconventional and free-spirited
• Isocrates – Master rhetorician; eloquent and persuasive
• Lysander – Spartan general; military strength with elegant sound
• Miltiades – Victor at Marathon; heroic and historic
• Themistocles – Naval strategist; strategic and intelligent
• Alcibiades – Charismatic leader; complex and fascinating
• Epaminondas – Theban general; noble and commanding

Strong Traditional Choices

These are the backbone of Greek naming – classic options that have stood the test of time:

• Andreas – “Manly, brave”; internationally appealing
• Christos – “Anointed one”; deeply meaningful in Greek culture
• Dimitri – “Devoted to Demeter”; earthy and grounded
• Georgios – “Farmer”; honest, hardworking connotations
• Ioannis – Greek form of John; traditional yet distinctive
• Konstantinos – “Constant, steadfast”; reliability personified
• Michalis – Greek Michael; angelic and strong
• Nikolaos – “Victory of the people”; triumphant and popular
• Panagiotis – “All holy”; deeply spiritual choice
• Stefanos – “Crown”; regal and accomplished
• Theodoros – “Gift of God”; grateful and blessed
• Vasilis – “Royal, kingly”; naturally aristocratic
• Yannis – Modern form of John; casual yet classic
• Athanasios – “Immortal”; powerful and eternal
• Evangelos – “Good messenger”; optimistic and communicative
• Spiros – “Spirit”; energetic and lively
• Kostas – Short for Konstantinos; friendly and approachable
• Manolis – “God with us”; comforting and protective
• Petros – “Rock, stone”; solid and dependable
• Stavros – “Cross”; symbolic and meaningful
• Takis – Nickname for various names; playful and modern
• Fotis – “Light”; bright and illuminating
• Giannis – Popular variant of John; athletic and contemporary
• Lefteris – “Free man”; independent and strong-willed
• Nikos – Short for Nikolaos; friendly and accessible
• Antonis – “Priceless”; valuable and cherished
• Costas – Another form of Konstantinos; international appeal
• Giorgos – “Farmer”; down-to-earth and genuine
• Manos – “God with us”; warm and protective
• Paris – Not just the city; mythological prince of Troy
• Stelios – “Pillar”; supportive and strong
• Thanos – “Immortal”; powerful (yes, like the Marvel character!)
• Alexis – “Defender”; works for any gender but traditionally male
• Christophoros – “Christ bearer”; deeply meaningful
• Dimitrios – Full form of Dimitri; formal and distinguished
• Efstathios – “Good standing”; stable and reliable
• Grigorios – “Watchful”; alert and protective
• Ioannes – Ancient form of John; scholarly appeal
• Kyriakos – “Of the Lord”; Sunday-born tradition
• Loukas – “From Lucania”; artistic and creative
• Markos – “Warlike”; strong and determined
• Nikias – “Victory”; triumphant and successful
• Odysseas – “Wrathful”; epic journey connotations
• Pavlos – “Small”; humble yet significant
• Rigas – “King”; naturally royal
• Savvas – “Old man”; wise beyond years
• Taxiarchis – “Commander”; leadership qualities
• Ulysse – Greek form of Ulysses; adventurous spirit
• Vlasios – “Stuttering”; unique and memorable
• Zenon – “Gift of Zeus”; philosophical and divine

Modern Greek Favorites

These names are popular in contemporary Greece and have international appeal:

• Aggelos – “Angel”; pure and heavenly
• Aris – Short for Aristotle; modern and crisp
• Babis – Nickname for various names; cute and youthful
• Charalampos – “Shining joy”; optimistic and bright
• Dimos – “Of the people”; democratic and inclusive
• Elias – “Jehovah is God”; internationally popular
• Fanis – “Appearing”; mysterious and intriguing
• Giannos – Modern variant; fresh and contemporary
• Haris – “Grace”; elegant and sophisticated
• Ilias – Variant of Elias; flowing and melodic
• Janis – International spelling; globally appealing
• Kosta – Shortened Konstantinos; friendly and casual
• Lazaros – “God has helped”; hopeful and faithful
• Makis – Nickname for various names; approachable and warm
• Nasos – Short for Athanasios; unique and memorable
• Orestis – “Mountain dweller”; nature-loving and strong
• Pantelis – “All complete”; perfect and whole
• Rafail – “God has healed”; healing and hopeful
• Sakis – Modern nickname; trendy and cool
• Tasos – Another Athanasios nickname; casual and friendly
• Vangelis – Short for Evangelos; musical and artistic
• Yorgos – Casual George; earthy and genuine
• Zisis – “He lives”; vital and energetic
• Akis – Modern short name; simple and strong
• Babys – Unique variant; youthful and spirited
• Christoforos – “Christ bearer”; meaningful and traditional
• Demetris – Modern Dimitrios; international and sophisticated
• Evripidis – Modern Euripides; artistic and cultured
• Fotios – “Light bringer”; illuminating and bright
• Giannis – Basketball star appeal; athletic and modern
• Haralambos – Full form of Charalampos; joyful and radiant
• Ignatios – “Fiery”; passionate and intense
• Jannis – Alternative spelling; international appeal
• Kyriakos – “Belonging to the Lord”; spiritual and strong
• Lambros – “Bright, radiant”; luminous and cheerful
• Miltos – “Red earth”; grounded and natural
• Nestor – “Homecoming”; wise counselor from Homer
• Odysseus – Full epic form; adventurous and legendary
• Panagis – Short for Panagiotis; holy and blessed
• Renos – Modern invention; fresh and contemporary
• Serafim – “Fiery ones”; angelic and powerful
• Thanasis – Casual Athanasios; immortal and strong
• Uranus – Sky god; celestial and grand
• Vassilis – Modern royal name; kingly and noble
• Xenios – “Hospitable”; welcoming and kind
• Yiannis – Another John variant; versatile and popular
• Zacharias – “God remembers”; faithful and memorable
• Apostolos – “Messenger”; communicative and faithful
• Chrysostomos – “Golden mouth”; eloquent and precious
• Evagoras – “Good speaker”; articulate and persuasive

Check out more unique boy names for additional distinctive options.

Hidden Gems & Unique Picks

These lesser-known Greek names offer something special for parents wanting distinctive choices:

• Aegeon – “Goat man”; unique mythological connection
• Boreas – “North wind”; powerful and elemental
• Cadmus – “From the east”; exotic and mysterious
• Daedalus – “Skillfully wrought”; perfect for creative families
• Evander – “Good man”; virtue and strength combined
• Glaucus – “Blue-gray”; oceanic and rare
• Hesperos – “Evening star”; celestial and romantic
• Icarios – “Follower of Icarus”; mythological adventure
• Janus – “Gateway”; transitional and meaningful
• Kosmos – “Order, universe”; cosmic and profound
• Leander – “Lion man”; brave and noble
• Melanthios – “Dark flower”; poetic and unique
• Nikomedes – “Victory plan”; strategic and intelligent
• Olympios – “From Olympus”; divine and majestic
• Pelagios – “Of the sea”; oceanic and flowing
• Rhodopios – “Rose-eyed”; gentle and beautiful
• Silenos – “Moon man”; mystical and lunar
• Telemachus – “Far fighter”; heroic and distant
• Uranios – “Heavenly”; celestial and divine
• Xanthos – “Yellow, blonde”; bright and golden
• Zotikos – “Full of life”; energetic and vital
• Aristophanes – “Best appearance”; handsome and noble
• Callisthenes – “Beautiful strength”; perfect combination
• Dositheos – “Given by God”; grateful and blessed
• Euphemios – “Well spoken”; eloquent and articulate
• Theophilos – “Friend of God”; spiritual and loyal
• Hippolytos – “Freer of horses”; wild and free
• Kallistos – “Most beautiful”; aesthetically pleasing
• Lysippos – “Freer of horses”; artistic sculptor name
• Nikomachos – “Victory in battle”; triumphant warrior
• Prokopios – “Progress”; forward-thinking and advancing
• Sostrates – “Safe army”; protective and military
• Theokritus – “God’s judge”; just and divine
• Xenokrates – “Foreign power”; unique and strong
• Apollodoros – “Gift of Apollo”; divine and artistic
• Chrysanthos – “Golden flower”; precious and beautiful
• Diokles – “God’s glory”; divine and radiant
• Epiktetos – “Acquired”; philosophical and meaningful
• Philemon – “Loving”; affectionate and kind
• Theophanes – “God’s appearance”; divine manifestation
• Aristides – “Best kind”; excellent and noble
• Kleomenes – “Famous strength”; renowned and powerful
• Polykarpos – “Much fruit”; abundant and prosperous
• Timotheos – “Honoring God”; reverent and respectful
• Xenophanes – “Foreign appearance”; unique and distinctive
• Apollonios – “Belonging to Apollo”; divine and artistic
• Epameinondas – “Upon strength”; powerful foundation
• Kleanthes – “Famous flower”; beautiful and renowned
• Theogenes – “Born of God”; divine origin
• Aristarchos – “Best ruler”; leadership and excellence

Short & Strong Options

Perfect for modern families wanting something punchy and memorable:

• Ajax – Heroic warrior; short and powerful
• Dion – “Divine”; simple yet meaningful
• Eros – “Love”; passionate and direct
• Ion – “Violet flower”; delicate yet strong
• Leo – “Lion”; brave and bold
• Neo – “New”; modern and fresh
• Rex – “King”; regal and commanding
• Theo – “God”; spiritual and strong
• Zeno – “Gift of Zeus”; philosophical and divine
• Ares – “War god”; fierce and memorable
• Bion – “Life”; vital and essential
• Cleo – “Glory”; radiant and proud
• Dino – “Terrible”; surprisingly cute nickname
• Echo – “Sound”; musical and resonant
• Geno – “Race, kind”; ancestral and proud
• Hero – “Brave one”; courageous and simple
• Iago – Variant of James; dramatic and memorable
• Kleo – “Fame”; glorious and shining
• Nico – “Victory”; triumphant and popular
• Otto – “Wealth”; prosperous and strong
• Pax – “Peace”; serene and hopeful
• Rio – “River”; flowing and natural
• Solo – “Alone”; independent and unique
• Tad – Short for Thaddeus; friendly and casual
• Zoe – Traditionally feminine but works; “life”

Greek Names with Great Nicknames

These longer names offer flexibility with wonderful shortened versions:

• Alexander – Alex, Xander, Lex, Sandy
• Anastasios – Tassos, Tasos, Stas, Ana
• Athanasios – Thanasis, Thanos, Nasos, Athan
• Christopher – Chris, Christos, Kit, Topher
• Constantine – Con, Costas, Gus, Dinos
• Dimitrios – Dimitri, Dimi, Mitsos, Demetri
• Evangelos – Vangelis, Evan, Angelo, Gelos
• Georgios – George, Giorgos, Yorgos, Geo
• Ioannis – John, Yannis, Giannis, Ian
• Konstantinos – Kostas, Kosta, Dinos, Stan
• Nikolaos – Nick, Nikos, Nico, Klaus
• Panagiotis – Panos, Takis, Notis, Pan
• Stefanos – Steve, Stefan, Stef, Fanos
• Theodoros – Theo, Ted, Doros, Thodoros
• Charalampos – Charis, Lambros, Harry, Bob
• Epameinondas – Pam, Mino, Nondas, Eddie
• Aristophanes – Aris, Ari, Stoph, Fanes
• Dionysios – Dion, Denis, Nysios, Dio
• Grigorios – Greg, Grego, Goris, Rio
• Haralambos – Harry, Lambros, Bob, Charal
• Miltiades – Milt, Miltos, Taki, Ades
• Nikephoros – Nike, Nikos, Foros, Nick
• Prokopios – Pro, Kopi, Prokis, Prok
• Theoklitos – Theo, Klit, Klitos, Teo
• Xenophon – Xeno, Phon, Xenios, Xen

Regional Variations & Island Names

Names connected to specific Greek regions and beautiful islands:

• Aegeus – From the Aegean Sea; maritime and flowing
• Corinthios – From Corinth; classical and sophisticated
• Creticus – From Crete; island strength and independence
• Delios – From Delos; sacred island connection
• Eubulus – From Euboea; good counsel and wisdom
• Ithakos – From Ithaca; Odyssey connection and adventure
• Korfu – From Corfu; beautiful and exotic
• Lesbios – From Lesbos; poetic and artistic
• Mykonios – From Mykonos; trendy and fashionable
• Naxios – From Naxos; strong and independent
• Paros – From the island; marble-pure and classic
• Rhodios – From Rhodes; sunny and warm
• Samios – From Samos; mathematical and wise
• Skyros – From the island; unique and memorable
• Thasos – From the island; golden and precious
• Zakynthos – From the island; turtle-protective and caring
• Andros – “Manly”; strong island connection
• Chios – From the island; unique and distinctive
• Ikarios – From Ikaria; long-lived and healthy
• Kephalos – From Kefalonia; leader and head
• Lemnos – From the island; volcanic and powerful
• Milos – From the island; gentle and artistic
• Patmos – From the sacred island; spiritual and reverent
• Serifos – From the island; rough and natural
• Tinos – From the island; marble-crafted and artistic

Modern Twists on Ancient Names

Contemporary versions that honor tradition while feeling fresh:

• Alexandros → Alex – Classic becomes casual and international
• Anastasios → Tasos – Resurrection becomes trendy and modern
• Apollonios → Apollo – Divine becomes streamlined and powerful
• Aristotelis → Aris – Philosophical becomes approachable and cool
• Athanasios → Thanos – Immortal becomes pop culture relevant
• Charalampos → Harris – Joy becomes internationally appealing
• Christophoros → Kristof – Christ-bearer becomes modern European
• Dimitrios → Demetri – Earth goddess becomes sleek and contemporary
• Dionysios → Dennis – Wine god becomes everyday friendly
• Epameinondas → Pam – Strength becomes surprisingly gender-neutral
• Evangelos → Evan – Good news becomes Welsh-appealing
• Georgios → Jorge – Farmer becomes Latino-friendly
• Grigorios → Gregory – Watchful becomes saintly and classic
• Haralambos → Harry – Bright joy becomes royal British
• Ioannis → Ian – God’s grace becomes Scottish appealing
• Konstantinos → Constantine – Steadfast becomes emperor-like
• Kyriakos → Cyrus – Lord’s day becomes Persian-influenced
• Loukas → Lucas – Light becomes internationally popular
• Markos → Marco – Warlike becomes Italian-influenced
• Nikolaos → Nicolas – Victory becomes French-sophisticated
• Odysseas → Ulysses – Journey becomes Roman-influenced
• Panagiotis → Peter – All-holy becomes rock-solid
• Pavlos → Pablo – Small becomes Spanish-artistic
• Stefanos → Stefan – Crown becomes Eastern European
• Theodoros → Theodore – God’s gift becomes presidential

Discover more biblical boy names for additional meaningful options.

Why Greek Names Are Taking Over Nurseries

Here’s what’s fascinating about the current naming landscape: Greek names have surged 47% in popularity searches since 2020, according to Nameberry data. We’re seeing parents move away from trendy invented names toward options with deep historical roots and meaningful stories.

Three of 2024’s top 100 baby names – Alexander, Nicholas, and Christopher – all have Greek origins. Trust me on this one, there’s something powerful about giving your child a name that’s been inspiring people for literally thousands of years. Celebrity influence plays a role too, with stars like Chris Hemsworth and athletes like Giannis Antetokounmpo making Greek names feel both heroic and approachable.

Picture this: your son introducing himself with a name that carries the legacy of ancient philosophers, mythological heroes, and timeless strength. That’s the magic of Greek naming traditions.

Explore more strong boy names for additional powerful options.

Your Guide to Choosing the Perfect Greek Name

Choosing a Greek name for your son is like gifting him a piece of ancient wisdom and modern strength. Here are my top tips for making the perfect choice:

Test the Pronunciation Factor: Practice saying your favorite names out loud. Can grandparents pronounce it? Will teachers struggle? Names like “Nikos” and “Theo” offer Greek heritage with easy pronunciation, while “Charalampos” might need more explanation.

Consider Nickname Potential: Greek names often come with multiple nickname options. “Konstantinos” can become Kostas, Gus, or even Dino, giving your child choices as he grows.

Think About Initials and Flow: Pair your chosen name with your surname. “Apollo Anderson” flows beautifully, while “Zeus Zimmerman” might feel overwhelming.

Honor Your Heritage Respectfully: If you’re not Greek, choose names that feel authentic to your family story. Names like “Alexander” and “Nicholas” have become so international that they work for anyone, while very traditional names might feel like cultural appropriation.

Research the Full Story: Every Greek name carries mythology, history, or meaning. Make sure you love the complete story behind your choice – your son will be telling it his whole life.

Balance Uniqueness with Usability: “Orion” offers mythological power with modern appeal, while “Epameinondas” might be too challenging for everyday use (though “Pam” is a cute nickname!).

Here’s something fascinating about Greek naming traditions: Ancient Greeks believed names influenced destiny and character. They often chose names based on desired qualities or to honor gods and heroes. Modern research actually supports this – children with “powerful” names often develop more confidence and leadership qualities.

The Timeless Appeal of Greek Heritage

Greek names represent over 3,000 years of storytelling, philosophy, and cultural achievement. When you choose a Greek name for your son, you’re connecting him to the birthplace of democracy, the Olympic Games, and countless scientific discoveries. Did you know that 60% of mathematical and scientific terms derive from Greek? Your little “Archimedes” or “Pythagoras” will carry that intellectual legacy.

I’m totally obsessed with how these ancient names feel both timeless and contemporary. “Atlas” works perfectly for a modern boy, but it also connects him to the Titan who held up the heavens. “Phoenix” (though technically mythological rather than traditionally Greek) represents rebirth and renewal – perfect qualities for any child.

The beauty of Greek names lies in their versatility. Whether you choose the heroic strength of “Leonidas,” the wisdom of “Sophia” (wait, that’s for girls!), or the modern appeal of “Nico,” you’re giving your son a name with incredible depth and staying power.

Trust me, whether you’re drawn to mythological powerhouses like “Apollo” and “Perseus,” classical heroes like “Alexander” and “Aristotle,” or modern favorites like “Aris” and “Elias,” there’s a perfect Greek name waiting for your little hero. These names have inspired greatness for millennia – imagine the stories your son will create with his own piece of Greek legacy.

What draws you to Greek names? Are you feeling the pull of mythology, history, or simply the beautiful sound of these ancient treasures? Whatever your reason, you’re about to give your child something truly special – a name that’s both a gift from the past and a bridge to an incredible future.