Complete Greek Mythology
- Aegeus
Description:
Aegeus is a masculine name with deep roots in Greek mythology. It belonged to the legendary king of Athens who was the father of the hero Theseus. The name likely derives from the Greek word 'aix' meaning 'goat' or possibly from 'aigialos' meaning 'sea shore.' In mythology, King Aegeus tragically threw himself into the sea (later named the Aegean Sea after him) when he believed his son had died. This name carries strong classical associations and projects an air of dignity and ancient wisdom. While never common in modern usage, Aegeus appeals to parents with an appreciation for mythology and classical history. The name offers the rare combination of historical weight, distinctive sound, and a connection to one of Western civilization's foundational cultural traditions.
- Narcissus
Origin:
GreekMeaning:
"daffodil"Description:
Mythological young man who fell in love with his own image: the first narcissist.
- Poseidon
Origin:
Greek mythology nameDescription:
This version of the sea god's name may be more ready for prime time than the Roman version, Neptune -- slightly.
- Eirene
Origin:
GreekMeaning:
"peace"Description:
Eirene, modernized to Irene, was the Greek goddess of peace. Eirene or Irene was also the name of an early empress and several saints.
- Dionysus
Origin:
GreekMeaning:
"god of Nysa"
- Harmonia
Origin:
GreekMeaning:
"agreement, concord"Description:
One Greek mythological name -- she was the goddess of order -- not yet embraced by American parents.
- Daedalus
Origin:
GreekMeaning:
"craftsman"Description:
Name of a tragic mythological hero, used as a surname in the works of James Joyce; heavy but ponderous for an American boy, though pulled off very well by single-name musician Daedalus and writer and artist Daedalus Howell.
- Heracles
Description:
Heracles is a masculine name derived from ancient Greek mythology, where Heracles (known as Hercules in Roman mythology) was the son of Zeus and a mortal woman, renowned for his extraordinary strength and heroic adventures. The name combines 'Hera' (the queen of Greek gods) and 'kleos' meaning 'glory,' ironically meaning 'glory of Hera' despite Hera's antagonism toward him in the myths. As a given name, Heracles is exceedingly rare in modern usage but represents ultimate strength, courage, and perseverance. Parents choosing this powerful mythological name often appreciate classical history and may be drawn to its heroic symbolism and timeless narrative of overcoming impossible challenges.
- Thetis
Origin:
GreekMeaning:
"dogmatic"Description:
This name of the mythological mother of Achilles might suffer from English speakers making the rhyming association to the word fetus. The traditional Greek pronunciation might alleviate that problem.
- Gbenga
Origin:
YorubaMeaning:
"lift up, elevate"Description:
Occasionally found in the Anglicized Benga spelling, this strong Yoruba name is a popular choice in Nigeria. American actor Gbenga Akinnagbe was born Olugbenga, which is a longer form of the name, meaning "God lifted me".
- Dike
- Acrisius
- Aeolus
- Aether
- Agamemnon
- Althaea
- Ancaeus
- Antiope
- Auxo
- Bellerophon
