Greek Names (with Meanings & Popularity)
- Kassandra
Origin:
Original spelling of CassandraDescription:
Kassandra is actually the original form of Cassandra (Greek names do not have Cs), though most will see it as a Kardashianization, which is a shame! As you might expect, the C currently charts higher. Still, Kassandra can lead to all sorts of cute nicknames, such as Kassie, Kass, and Sandy.
- Ionia
Origin:
Greek place-nameDescription:
Also relating to the sea and the islands, this name is a bit more melodic than its cousins.
- Xenobia
Origin:
GreekMeaning:
"of Zeus"Description:
As long as nobody connects it with xenophobia -- the fear of strangers and the unknown.
- Dionne
Origin:
Greek, feminine variation of DionMeaning:
"divine"Description:
Dionne is an Americanized version of the Greek Dione, with many sub-versions of its own, identified with singer Dionne Warwick. It was also the surname of the Canadian quintuplets born in 1934, who gained worldwide fame as the first kown quints to survive to adulthood.
- Cleon
Origin:
GreekMeaning:
"glorious, renowned"Description:
Rare and distinctive name with intimations of antiquity, also a Shakespearean character.
- Markos
Description:
Markos is a masculine name with Greek origins, serving as the Hellenic form of Mark or Marcus. Derived from the Latin 'Marcus,' it ultimately relates to Mars, the Roman god of war, suggesting meanings of 'warlike,' 'dedicated to Mars,' or 'hammer.' Common throughout Greece and in Greek diaspora communities, Markos carries historical significance as it appears in the New Testament—Mark the Evangelist was the author of one of the four Gospels. The name has remained consistently used in Greek-speaking regions while offering non-Greeks an authentic alternative to the more common Mark. With its distinct ending yet familiar sound, Markos balances cultural heritage with accessibility.
- Nani
Description:
Nani is a multicultural feminine name with origins spanning several traditions. In Hawaiian, it means 'beautiful' or 'glory,' while it can also be a shortened form of names like Danielle or Natalie in Western cultures. In Hindi and Sanskrit, Nani affectionately refers to a maternal grandmother, adding a warm familial connection. This short, melodic name has gained appeal in diverse communities for its simplicity and positive associations. The name's brevity makes it accessible across languages and cultures, while its various meaningful connections give it depth. Nani's contemporary sound fits well with modern naming trends favoring short, distinctive names with cross-cultural resonance. Its gentle tone and positive meanings contribute to its growing popularity.
- Moris
Description:
Moris is a masculine name that serves as a variant spelling of Morris or Maurice. The name ultimately derives from Latin 'Mauritius,' meaning 'Moorish' or 'dark-skinned,' originally referring to people from North Africa. This particular spelling is common in several Eastern European countries, Spain, and parts of Latin America. While less frequent in English-speaking countries, Moris offers a simplified, phonetic alternative to the more common Morris. The name carries a rich historical legacy, connected to Saint Maurice, a 3rd-century Roman soldier and Christian martyr. Throughout history, various forms of the name have been borne by saints, popes, and nobility across Europe. Moris combines ancient roots with a straightforward, accessible spelling that works well across multiple languages.
- Phyllon
Origin:
GreekMeaning:
"leaf"Description:
Phyllon, the male version of Phyllis (which gives you a clue to its pronunciation), was introduced as a baby name by Dutch model Doutzen Kroes and her husband DJ Sunnery James. Phyllon is one of those nature names that hides its true, well, nature.
- Tempe
Origin:
Greek place nameDescription:
The Vale of Tempe is an important place in Greek mythology as well as a real place in Greece. The ancient poets wrote of it as the halcyon dwelling of Apollo and the Muses. The modern cities in Arizona and Australia are named for the Greek Tempe, which is pronounced tem-pee.
- Kallista
Origin:
GreekMeaning:
"most beautiful"Description:
Actress Flockhart popularized the C version, but this works, too.
- Tigris
Description:
Tigris is a masculine name derived from the famous Tigris River, one of the major rivers of Mesopotamia (modern-day Iraq). The river's name itself comes from the Old Persian word "tigra" meaning "fast" or "arrow-like," referring to the swift flow of the river. As a name, Tigris carries connotations of strength, historic significance, and natural power. It's extremely rare as a given name in most countries, making it a distinctive choice. The name may appeal to parents interested in ancient history, geography, or seeking names with connections to significant natural landmarks. Tigris also evokes the image of a tiger due to the similar sound, adding undertones of wildness and majesty.
- Venedict
Description:
Venedict is a masculine name of Slavic origin, serving as a variant of Benedict, which comes from the Latin "benedictus" meaning "blessed." Popular in Eastern European countries, particularly Russia, Venedict carries the same dignified quality as its more common counterpart while offering a distinctive Slavic flair. The name has historical connections to religious traditions through St. Benedict, founder of the Benedictine monastic order. While relatively uncommon in Western countries, Venedict provides an intriguing option for parents seeking a name with classical roots and an international character. The nickname "Venya" is sometimes used in Russian-speaking regions.
- Zenobios
Origin:
GreekMeaning:
"life of Zeus"Description:
Zealous and noble, an unusual and strong choice -- and if the original is too much of a mouthful, you can always call him Zen.
- Nikasios
Description:
Nikasios is a masculine name with Greek origins. It derives from the Greek word "nike" meaning "victory," combined with the suffix "-asios," creating a name that essentially means "victorious one" or "he who brings victory." While relatively uncommon in modern usage, Nikasios reflects the ancient Greek tradition of bestowing names with powerful and aspirational meanings. This name would have been more prevalent in ancient Greece and Greek-speaking regions of the Mediterranean. Today, it remains a distinctive choice that connects to Hellenic heritage and history, maintaining appeal for families with Greek ancestry or those seeking a rare name with classical roots.
- Parthenia
Origin:
GreekMeaning:
"chaste maiden"Description:
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.
- Oedipus
Origin:
GreekMeaning:
"swollen foot"Description:
Sure to give a complex.
- Pericles
Origin:
GreekMeaning:
"far-famed"Description:
Ancient Athenian statesman whose name was once used in the US mostly for enslaved people, following a trend for names of ancient figures.
- Philadelphia
Origin:
Greek place-nameMeaning:
"brotherly love"Description:
Place-name mentioned in the New Testament and not yet on the name map. Philadelphia Thursday was the character played by Shirley Temple in John Ford's 1948 "Fort Apache."
- Eirini
Description:
Eirini is the traditional Greek form of Irene, deriving from the Greek word 'eirēnē' meaning 'peace.' This beautiful feminine name has profound historical roots in ancient Greek culture, where Eirene was the goddess of peace and spring. The name has remained consistently popular in Greece throughout history and is still widely used today. In Greek Orthodox tradition, Saint Irene of Thessaloniki is venerated as a martyr. Eirini retains its authentic Greek pronunciation with its flowing vowels and gentle consonants. As international parents increasingly seek names with both cultural significance and positive meanings, Eirini offers a meaningful alternative to the more commonly used Irene in Western countries while preserving its rich Hellenic heritage.