Greek Names (with Meanings & Popularity)
- Porfirio
Origin:
Italian and Spanish from GreekMeaning:
"purple dye"Description:
This ancient saint's name was borne by the infamous midcentury playboy, Porfirio Rubirosa.
- Alexandros
Description:
Alexandros is the original Greek form of Alexander, carrying the powerful meaning 'defender of men' or 'protector of mankind.' This classical masculine name has deep historical roots, most famously associated with Alexander the Great, the Macedonian ruler who created one of history's largest empires. The name has been used continuously for over two millennia across many cultures, with this Greek version maintaining its authentic historical character. Alexandros conveys strength, leadership, and intellectual prowess through its connection to its famous namesake. The name remains popular in Greece and among families with Greek heritage, offering a direct link to Hellenic culture and history. For parents seeking a name with undeniable gravitas and historical significance, Alexandros provides both tradition and strength.
- Nike
Origin:
GreekMeaning:
"victory"Description:
The goddess and personification of victory in Greek mythology – sister to strength, force, and zeal – could make a powerful namesake for a daughter. The goddess would fly a chariot across battlefields rewarding the victors with laurel garlands. Though Nike would make a more unique alternative to her much more popular Roman counterpart, Victoria, be warned that many people’s first association will be the sportswear brand.
- Arkadina
Origin:
Feminine variation of ArkadyMeaning:
"from Arcadia"Description:
Arkadina was thrust into the limelight as one of the (many) middle names of Uma Thurman and Arpad Busson's little girl. The Slavic or Russian feminine form of Arkady, which is derived from the ancient Greek name Arkadios, is the equivalent of the English Arcadia -- a heavenly place. For most English speakers, the Arcadia form would be more compatible.
- Justina
Origin:
Latin, feminine variation of JustinDescription:
Justina was the pre-Justine feminization of Justin, now a possible alternative to Christina. Oddly, while Justine feels like a name unto itself, Justina feels like a pinned-together feminization in the mold of Richarda or Benjamina. Still, it may appeal as one of the unusual-yet-familiar girl names starting with J.
- Lalage
Origin:
GreekMeaning:
"to chatter"Description:
An interesting name despite the pronunciation challenge. It has literary roots, both in the classical poetry of Horace, and as a character in John Fowles' The French Lieutenant's Woman. Appealing nicknames are Lalla and Lally.
- Antonios
Origin:
Greek form of AnthonyMeaning:
"from Antium"Description:
A Greek form of Anthony, derived from Latin.
- Zephyra
Description:
Zephyra is an ethereal feminine name derived from 'Zephyr,' the Greek god of the west wind. The name carries connotations of gentleness and freedom, as Zephyrus was known as the harbinger of spring and the mildest of the wind deities. This uncommon name possesses a dreamy, mystical quality with its flowing sounds and mythological origins. Though rare in everyday usage, Zephyra appeals to parents drawn to names with classical roots and poetic associations. The name evokes images of breezes, movement, and natural beauty. Its distinctive 'Z' beginning and melodic ending make it stand out while maintaining femininity. For those seeking a name with depth, mythological significance, and an unusual sound pattern, Zephyra offers a beautiful choice with its connections to nature and ancient tradition.
- Jeno
Description:
Jeno is a masculine name with Hungarian origins, being the Hungarian form of Eugene, which derives from the Greek name Eugenios meaning "well-born" or "noble." In Hungary, it's pronounced YEH-no, though in English-speaking countries it may be pronounced JEH-no. The name gained some international recognition through Jeno Hubay, a famous Hungarian violinist and composer. It's also recognized as the name of the founder of Jeno's Pizza (later becoming Totino's). While common in Hungary throughout the 20th century, Jeno remains quite rare in English-speaking countries. The name's simplicity, coupled with its distinctive international character, gives it a unique appeal for parents seeking something uncommon yet pronounceable.
- Margalo
Origin:
Greek variation of MargaretMeaning:
"pearl"Description:
Margalo could make an intriguing spin on Margaret, with Margo as a nickname. The name appears in E. B. White's Stuart Little — as a bird. Margalo Gilmore (born Margaret) was a well-known British-born Broadway actress.
- Malva
Origin:
GreekMeaning:
"slender, delicate"Description:
Your zany neighbor, the one who's a potter and has five cats.
- Lexus
Origin:
Greek variation of a diminutive of AlexisDescription:
Do you really want to name your baby after a car when there are so many other lex possibilities?
- Christy
Origin:
Scottish and Irish diminutive of ChristopherMeaning:
"bearer of Christ"Description:
Common nicknames for Christopher in Ireland, we think Christy or Christie have a certain cheery charm, especially now that Chris is feeling less ubiquitous.
- Letha
Origin:
GreekMeaning:
"forgetfulness"Description:
Letha is taken from Lethe, the mythological River of Oblivion. Letha now sounds as if it's missing a first syllable.
- Dionysius
Origin:
Greek mythology nameMeaning:
"god of Nysa"Description:
Dionysius derives from Dionysus, the Greek god of wine, revelry and fertility. This Romanized spelling has been used for poets, soldiers, and saints throughout the centuries, but is hardly ever seen today.
- Beta
Origin:
Greek, second letter of the Greek alphabetDescription:
If you can't have an Alpha male, how about a Beta girl.
- Tasia
Description:
Tasia is a feminine name that originated as a diminutive of Anastasia, which comes from Greek meaning 'resurrection.' This shortened form maintains the melodic quality of its longer counterpart while offering a more succinct, modern feel. Tasia gained modest recognition in the late 20th century as parents sought distinctive yet accessible names. The name carries a blend of classical Greek heritage with contemporary appeal. Its international character makes it recognizable across different cultures while remaining relatively uncommon. Tasia's bright vowel sounds and graceful cadence give it a feminine elegance without excessive ornamentation. The name appeals to parents drawn to names with classical roots but seeking something less common than traditional favorites.
- Antinea
Origin:
French after the Greek name for the Queen of AtlantisDescription:
In Pierre Benoit's novel, Antinea is a beautiful and charming queen with a hideous secret: She has a cave wall with 120 niches carved into it, one for each of her lovers. Only 53 have been filled; when all 120 have been filled, Antinea will sit atop a throne in the centre of the cave and rest forever.
- Lafcadio
Origin:
Place-nameDescription:
Patrick Lafcadio Hearn was born on the Greek Island of Lefkada, the origin of the name he used as a first. But as a writer, he was known as Koizumi Yakumo, a collector of Japanese folk tales and ghost stories. Truly an international choice.
- Phyllida
Origin:
Greek variation of PhyllisMeaning:
"green bough"Description:
Phyllida, a "Masterpiece Theatre"-style appellation, seems far fresher and more unusual than Phyllis. It's green-related meaning makes it one of the prime names that mean new beginnings.