Greek Names (with Meanings & Popularity)

Only if you're hoping for your son to become a wine-besotted poet. To the ancient Romans, Bacchus was the god of agriculture, wine and fertility.

Poetic though thorny.

Agapi has a sweet meaning of love and affection, but though this name is used in modern Greece, it's one of the Greek names for girls that has not yet emigrated to the US along with so many of her sisters.

With a soft e, sounds like an affected pronunciation of Rita.

A Greek goddess of music and poetry, Danaë has a novel yet familiar sound.

Soft and gentle, but feels like a less meaningful contraction of Theodora.

An early American name inspired by the word spiritual word "elect" and by a passage in the New Testament in which the Christian Church is referred to as "The Elect Lady and Her Children". Used in the 19th and early 20th century, it has since faded out of view, last appearing in the stats in 2016 when it was given to 7 girls.

Tasoula is a feminine name of Greek origin, functioning primarily as an affectionate diminutive of Anastasia, though it can sometimes stand as an independent name. The suffix '-oula' in Greek adds an endearing quality, making Tasoula a warm, familiar form used among family and friends. The root name Anastasia means 'resurrection' or 'rebirth,' giving Tasoula connections to themes of renewal and hope. Most common in Greece and Greek diaspora communities, Tasoula carries a melodic quality with its flowing vowels. While rare outside Greek communities, it represents the rich tradition of Greek diminutives that often become standalone names. Tasoula offers both cultural authenticity and a distinctive sound for those seeking a uniquely Greek feminine name.

This name of a daughter of Zeus has an intriguing air of antiquity.

Crisanta, while not related to Christine, would make a pretty and highly unusual alternative to that tried-and-true name. Because of its relationship to the chrysanthemum, the flower of the month of November, it's one of the recommended names for Scorpio babies as well as names for November babies. Crisanta might also give you a fresh route to nicknames like Cris, Crissy, or Cristie.

Timotheos is the original Greek form of Timothy, derived from Greek elements meaning 'honoring God' or 'God's honor.' This classical version maintains the full richness of its ancient origins, connecting directly to Biblical heritage. In the New Testament, Timotheos was a young companion of the Apostle Paul and recipient of two epistles. The name carries connotations of reverence, respect, and devotion. While Timothy became widely used throughout the Christian world, Timotheos remains closer to its authentic Greek roots, offering a more distinctive alternative. The name has occasional usage in Greece and among families seeking names with clear classical or biblical connections. Timotheos provides a dignified, scholarly impression while maintaining its spiritual significance.

The name of two Biblical figures, one a supporter of St. Paul and the other a Corinthian ruler. Virtually unknown in the U.S. but used in the form Sosthene in modern France.

Elidi is intriguing but potentially confusing. Try the French Elodie instead.

A rarely used name meaning from Delos, a sacred island to the ancient Greeks. A more interesting and musical choice might be Delius, after the British-born composer of lush rhapsodies.

Pheobe is an alternative spelling of the more conventional 'Phoebe,' a feminine name with ancient Greek origins meaning 'bright' or 'pure.' This variation maintains the pronunciation of the original but features a transposed 'o' and 'e.' The name derives from Greek mythology, where Phoebe was a Titaness associated with the moon and prophecy. While less common than the standard spelling, Pheobe occasionally appears in naming records, sometimes as an intentional variation and other times as a spelling error. The name carries the same melodic quality and classical heritage as Phoebe, which has enjoyed moderate popularity throughout the English-speaking world. Those named Pheobe share connections to a name with rich mythological associations and a meaning that evokes light and clarity.

Attractive, approachable, and more striking Nick alternative.

Cassiane, also spelled Kassiani or Kasiani, is an ancient Greek name best known as the name of a saint famous as a hymnographer. The Hymn of Cassiane, traditionally sung on Tuesday of Easter Week in the Greek Orthodox Church, is associated with fallen women. The 9th century saint Cassiane was supposed to be in love with the Emperor Theophilos, who rejected her when she proved to be more intelligent than he.

Agathe is a hugely popular name in contemporary France, even if it's English-speaking counterparts have not yet warmed to the usual English version, Agatha. The two-syllable French pronunciation is sure to trip up non-French speakers.

Parthenia may be a bit unwieldy, but does conjure up majestic images of the Parthenon. It was briefly in the US charts in the late 19th century.

Another light new twist in the Nicole family.