Greek Names for Boys

Achilleus is the original Greek form of the more commonly known Achilles, one of the greatest heroes in Greek mythology. The name is steeped in classical tradition, referring to the legendary warrior who fought in the Trojan War and was the central character in Homer's Iliad. While its etymology remains debated, some scholars suggest it may relate to 'pain' or 'grief,' reflecting the hero's complex story. Others connect it to Greek words meaning 'lip-less' or possibly to 'snake.' Achilleus maintains the authentic Greek spelling with its '-eus' ending, giving it a stronger connection to its Hellenic origins than the more common Achilles. Though rare as a given name, it appeals to parents with an appreciation for classical mythology and Greek heritage, offering historical depth and heroic associations.

Achilleus

Anatole is one of the unique boys' names with an unusual-ish feel but an uncertain provenance, with a meaning related to sunrise and thus to fire. While it's Greek in origin, it is associated more closely with France. Anatole Kuragin is a dashing, roguish prince in Tolstoy's War and Peace.

 Fewer than five baby boys were named Anatole in the US last year, making it a good choice if you're looking for a truly uncommon boy's name that has a solid history.

Anatole

On one hand, Caron is a place name, deived from the Welsh caru meaning "to love", and therefore related to Carys and Caradoc. Alternatively, it's influenced by the Greek Charon ("fierce brightness" and mythological ferryman for the dead) or the French Chèron (possibly from Roman Carinu, "beloved, dear").

Caron

An ancient relative of the classic Matthew, Mattathias is the Greek form of Mattithiah and Matttiyahu, names that appear several times in the Old Testament. Used in the Greek Bible and in some English translations, Mattathias is also the name of a 2nd-century (BC) priest, who was a significant leader in the Maccabean revolt. As such, he is celebrated for helping to reclaim Jerusalem, and therefore mentioned in on of the Hannukah prayers. 
 
This form may appeal to those who like Matthias but want a touch of extra flair.

Mattathias

Ancient Athenian statesman whose name was once used in the US mostly for enslaved people, following a trend for names of ancient figures. 

Pericles

Piers was the first version of Peter to reach the English-speaking world, via the Normans, but it's never made it in the US, despite its large measure of understated panache. This might change due to the high visibility of TV personality and former news editor Piers Morgan.
 There's a famous satirical medieval poem called Piers Plowman, in which the title character symbolizes the virtues of honesty and industry. Piers Whiteoak is a main character in the sixteen-book series Jalna by Canadian author Mazo de la Roche; Piers Polkiss is the best friend of Harry's cousin Dudley in the Harry Potter books.
 The surname form of the name, Pierce, is better known in the U.S., partly via actor Pierce Brosnan.

Piers

Made cool by that final X (as seen in Felix, Lennox, and Rex), Pollux is the Romanized form of Polydeukes, the half-twin of Castor, and the son of Zeus and Leda. Associated with the Gemini constellation, the name means "very sweet".
 
While Castor is held back by the oil, parents may be put off Pollux by its similarity to words like pollock, polyps, pollution, and pox — and with its almost rhyme, beginning with B. 
 
If you can look past that, as a handful of parents in the US have been doing since at least 2008, it could make an unexpected way to honor a Paul or a Polly and a way to nicknames Lux and Lockie.

Pollux

Despite the reputation of the sagacious ancient Greek lawmaker, this name hasn't moved to the modern world. 

Solon

The original form of Stephen, a readily importable choice. 

Stephanos

Thảo is a unisex, though primarily feminine, name in Vietnam.

Thao

Multisyllabic New Testament relic dimly recalled from the Thornton Wilder novel Theophilus North.

Theophilos

Kids would be more likely to associate this name with the hyperactive meercat in "The Lion King" than with the ancient Greek philosopher or Shakespearean character, which could cause playground problems. 

Timon

Also appearing as Yuri and Yury this is a variation of the classic George, used predominantly in Russian and the Ukraine. Notable bearers include a 12th century prince of Kyiv Yuriy Dolgorukiy, the 15th century philosopher and astronemer Yuriy Drohobych, the cosmonaut (and first man to travel to space) Yuriy Gagarin, actor Yuriy Sardarov, and pop singer Yuriy Shatunov. 
 
Diminutives included Yura, Yurka, Yurik, Yurok, Yurchik, Yurochka, and Yuronka — Yura being the main one.

Yuriy

Eustace was originally popularized by St. Eustace, who was born a Norman nobleman and is said to have been converted to Christianity by seeing a crucifix between the antlers of the deer he was hunting. It was introduced to England by the Normans, and can be found in medieval legend. In literature the name appears in the person of Eustace Clarence Scrubb in C. S. Lewis's The Chronicles of Narnia.
<bre/> The image of Eustace today is as sedate and stuffy as the monocled Eustace Tilly character on The New Yorker magazine covers. Its diminutive Stacy became a unisex hit.

Eustace

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.

Jeno

Eugenios is a masculine name of Greek origin, representing the traditional Greek form of Eugene. The name derives from the Greek words "eu" meaning "good" or "well" and "genos" meaning "born" or "race," together signifying "well-born" or "noble." Historically, it was popular among early Christians and was borne by several saints and four popes. Eugenios has remained more common in Greece and Greek communities worldwide, while variations like Eugene, Eugenio, or Eugène gained popularity in other cultures. The name carries connotations of dignity and refinement. Although less common in contemporary naming trends outside of Greek-speaking regions, Eugenios offers a distinguished classical option with a rich historical legacy.

Eugenios

Eugen is a masculine name of Greek origin, derived from the elements "eu" meaning "good" or "well" and "genes" meaning "born" or "of noble descent." Essentially, it translates to "well-born" or "noble." This classical name has been particularly popular in Germanic, Slavic, and Eastern European countries, where it's pronounced closer to "OY-gen" rather than the Anglicized "YOU-jen." While Eugene is the more common English variant, Eugen maintains stronger connections to its European roots. The name carries an air of sophistication and intellectual heritage, having been borne by notable composers, scientists, and literary figures throughout European history. Though uncommon in English-speaking countries, it remains a distinguished choice with classical appeal.

Eugen

Carolos is a masculine name that appears to be a variant of Carlos, which itself is the Spanish and Portuguese form of Charles. The name ultimately derives from Germanic origins, specifically from the name Karl, meaning 'free man' or 'man.' This variation with the additional 'o' gives the name a distinctive Greek flair, though it isn't a traditional Greek name. Carolos remains quite uncommon in most countries, making it a unique alternative to the more popular Carlos. The name carries the strength and regal associations of its root name Charles, which has been borne by numerous kings and notable figures throughout history. Its uncommon spelling offers familiarity with a twist, appealing to parents seeking something distinctive yet pronounceable.

Carolos

Anatolios is a masculine name of Greek origin, representing the fuller, more traditional form of the more common Anatoly or Anatoliy. The name derives from the Greek word "anatole," meaning "sunrise" or "east," literally referring to "one from the east" or "dawn." Historically, the name was associated with the geographic region of Anatolia (modern-day Turkey), which was named for its eastern position relative to Greece. Anatolios was the name of several early Christian saints and church figures, contributing to its use throughout Orthodox Christian communities. While the shortened forms Anatoly or Anatoliy are more common in Russia and Eastern European countries, the full Anatolios maintains stronger usage in Greece and among traditional Greek communities. The name conveys associations with new beginnings, illumination, and classical heritage, while remaining quite rare in Western countries.

Anatolios

Erasmus has long retained the image of the bearded and bespectacled Dutch philosopher, but could be one that the audacious baby namer just might dare to dust off.
 The fourth century Saint Erasmus was also known as Elmo, the patron saint of sailors. The name is closely associated with Renaissance humanist and theologian Desiderius Erasmus, who was born Geert Geerts.
 Another less known bearer was Charles Darwin's grandfather, the poet, naturalist and physician Erasmus Darwin. The fictional Erasmus Holyday is a learned teacher in Walter Scott's 1821 novel Kenilworth, published at a time when the name did have some popularity in England.

Erasmus

 as Phillip and George, Nicholas and Andrew, Peter and Stephen, all common in the US for most of its history. These traditional Greek boys’ names and their variations have been widely used in the western world for decades.

The latest favorite Greek name for boys is Theodore, which made a rapid ascent into the 

. That's an all-time high for this classic, presidential name. Short form Theo is also rising as a stand-alone name.

 in the US Top 500 today include Alexander, Atticus, Elias, Jonas, Lucas, Nico, Sebastian, and Tobias. Baby boy names popular in Greece include Yiorgos — the Greek form of George — Yiannis, Constantine, and Dimitris.

 with a contemporary appeal include Lazarus, Linus, Ozias, and Phoenix.

Other unique Greek boy names trending for modern babies are 

. You might consider naming your son Apollo or Atlas, Orion or Perseus.

This list gathers all the Greek names for boys on Nameberry, ordered by their current popularity among visitors to the site.

Greek boy names with meanings, origins, and popularity, include top and classic Greek names for boys, as well as unusual Greek male names. (Page 10)

315+ Greek Boy Names (with Meanings)