Plutarch's Lives

Names mentioned in Plutarch's Lives.
  1. Achilles
    • Origin:

      Greek, meaning unknown
    • Description:

      The name of the great Homeric hero with the vulnerable heel, Achilles is more popular in its international form, Achille, which is popular in France, Italy, and Belgium. This variation did however appear briefly on the US Top 1000 list in 2015, perhaps owing to its similarity to the likes of Atticus, Adonis, and Apollo. It has declined in use since then, but is nevertheless chosen for around 160 babies each year.
  2. 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.

  3. Aemilia
    • Origin:

      Roman
    • Meaning:

      "rival"
    • Description:

      Aemilia is the Ancient Roman spelling of the popular Emilia and family. With Emilia and Amelia so popular, this version, while authentic and attractive, will only create confusion without adding real distinction.
  4. Aeneas
    • Origin:

      Greek
    • Meaning:

      "the praised one"
    • Description:

      In Greek and Roman mythology, Aeneas was the legendary son of Venus (or Aphrodite) who was the hero of Troy and Rome. Appearing in the Aeneid by the poet Virgil, he goes on to found the Roman state and break the heart of Queen Dido of Carthage.
  5. Ajax
    • Origin:

      Greek mythology name
    • Description:

      Ajax was the strong and courageous Greek hero featured in Homer's "Iliad," known as Ajax the Great. But it's also the name of a foaming cleanser, and if you find that reference too strong, you might try the shortened Jax instead.
  6. Alexander
    • Origin:

      Greek
    • Meaning:

      "defending men"
    • Description:

      Alexander has been in a Top 25 boys' name in the US for 30 years now. But namers are still attracted to its imposing historic pedigree.
  7. Apollo
    • Origin:

      Greek mythology name
    • Meaning:

      "destroyer"
    • Description:

      With mythological names rising, the handsome son of Zeus and god of medicine, music, and poetry among many other things might offer an interesting, if high-pressure, option.
  8. Ariadne
    • Origin:

      Greek
    • Meaning:

      "most holy"
    • Description:

      This name of the Cretan goddess of fertility is most popular now as the more melodic Ariana, but Ariadne has possibilities of its own. It first entered the US Top 1000 in 2014. The renewed interest in the name falls in line with the revival of other mythological names like Apollo and Athena. The trendy nickname Ari doesn't hurt either.
  9. Aristotle
    • Origin:

      Greek
    • Meaning:

      "superior; the best purpose"
    • Description:

      The great philosopher's name is commonly used in Greek families, and is one that could work for daring, philosophical American ones. With user friendly nicknames such as Ari, Aris, Artie, and Ris, Aristotle is a ambitious choice, associated with morality, ethics, literature, and psychology.
  10. Abillius
    • Academus
      • Acca
        • Acron
          • Adrastus
            • Aeacus
              • Aegle
                • Aeschylus
                  • Aethra
                    • Aidoneus
                      • Alcmena