Greek Boy Names
By Dixie Legare – August 28, 2024
Many modern names have roots in ancient Greek culture. The names carry a sense of strength and power that resonates even today.
This list highlights some of the best Greek names for boys, offering a mix of classic, popular, and unique options to choose from.
Whether you’re looking for a timeless name or something a bit more distinctive, these Greek names can provide inspiration and a touch of ancient heritage.
Each name comes with its own history and meaning, adding depth and character to your choice.
Common and Popular Greek Boy Names
Georgios
The Greek version of the name George, Georgios, means “farmer” or “earth worker.” This name gained popularity due to a legend about a third-century saint who famously defeated a dragon.
Dimitrios
This name comes from the goddess Demeter, who was associated with agriculture. Dimitrios means “earth mother,” conveying a connection to nature and growth.
Ioannis
In Greek, Ioannis is equivalent to John. This religious name means “God is gracious” in Hebrew.
Important figures named John include John the Baptist and John the Apostle, both found in Biblical stories.
Nikolaos
Nikolaos means “victory of the people.” The name is linked to a fourth-century saint, who became the patron of children, sailors, and merchants. His legacy later inspired the figure of Santa Claus.
Konstantin
Named after Emperor Constantine who adopted Christianity, Konstantin means “constant” or “steadfast.” The name has historical significance due to its association with this influential Roman leader.
Christos
Christos translates to “anointed,” a term early Greek Christians used to refer to Jesus. This name is a translation of the Hebrew word for messiah.
Panagiotis
A title used for the Virgin Mary, Panagiotis means “all holy.” This name carries a strong religious connotation and is widely respected in Greek culture.
Vasileios
Vasileios is the Greek form of Basil, meaning “king.”
Basil was a prominent bishop and theologian in the early Christian church, adding a layer of religious significance to this name.
Konstantinos
Konstantinos is a longer form of Konstantin. Also based on the name Constantine, Konstantinos retains the meaning of “constant” or “steadfast.”
Athanasios
Meaning “immortal,” Athanasios was a name borne by a fourth-century saint who lived in Alexandria, Egypt. This name implies a sense of enduring strength and timelessness.
Unique and Rare Greek Boy Names
Asterios
Asterios has roots in several Greek myths. It means “starry,” which will be perfect for a child who fills lives with light and wonder.
Dorotheos
Dorotheos is a unique name for boys that is derived from the name Dorothy. It translates to “gift of God,” making it a meaningful choice for a special little one.
Efthimios
Efthimios, meaning “in good spirits” or “generous,” suits a cheerful and kind-hearted boy. The name reflects a happy and generous nature.
Haris
Haris, an alternate spelling of Charis, means “grace” and “kindness.” This name has historical significance, having been used by a Greek warrior in the fourth century BCE.
Lefteris
Lefteris is a shorter version of the name Eleftherios and simply means “free.” It makes for a strong and liberating name for a boy.
Panayiotis
Panayiotis, another spelling of Panagiotis, means “all holy.” Often used as a title for the Virgin Mary in Greece, this name carries a sense of reverence and purity.
Marinos
Marinos is the Greek form of the Roman name Marinus. It can mean either “of the sea” or “male,” stemming from the god Mars, known as Ares in Greek mythology.
Paraskevas
Paraskevas is the masculine counterpart of the female name Paraskeve and means “preparation” or “Friday.” It’s a fitting name if a baby boy is born on a Friday.
Theofylaktos
Theofylaktos translates to “watched by God.” This name offers a sense of divine protection and care.
Yiorgos
Yiorgos is an alternate spelling of Georgios, commonly known as George. It means “farmer” or “earth worker,” making it a grounded and timeless choice.
Ancient Greek Boy Names
Achilleus
Achilleus is the Greek form of Achilles, a name that might mean “pain.” Achilles was a heroic figure in Homer’s Iliad. He was famous for his strength and bravery but met his end when an arrow struck his heel. This is where the term “Achilles’ heel” comes from.
Chrysanthos
Chrysanthos means “golden flower” in Greek. This name was first used by an Egyptian saint in the third century and combines beauty and history.
Dionysios
Dionysios is derived from the name Dionysos, the Greek god of fertility and wine. This name combines Dios, meaning “of Zeus,” and Nysa, a mountainous region where the god grew up.
Ermis
Ermis is the modern Greek version of Hermes, the messenger god. The name means “cairn (pile of stones)” or “boundary marker.” Hermes was also the god of travelers, writers, athletes, merchants, thieves, and orators.
Evripidis
Evripidis is the Greek spelling of Euripides, a well-known dramatist from the fifth century BCE. His name refers to the strait between the Greek islands of Euboea and Boeotia.
Iason
Iason is the Greek spelling for Jason, meaning “healer.” This name is famous because of the mythic hero Jason, who embarked on a quest to find the Golden Fleece.
Menelaos
Menelaos is the Greek form of Menelaus, who was the Spartan king married to Helen of Troy. His brother Agamemnon led the siege of Troy, which included the famous Trojan horse. The name means “to stay/last.”
Omiros
Omiros is the Greek version of Homer, the epic poet from the eighth century BCE. He is believed to have written the Iliad and the Odyssey. The name means “hostage” or “pledge.”
Orfeas
Orfeas is the ancient spelling of Orpheus, a name that means “darkness of night.” Orpheus ventured into the underworld to retrieve his dead wife, Eurydice, but tragically lost her again.
Sofoklis
Sofoklis is the Greek form of Sophocles, a famous tragic poet from the fifth century BCE. He wrote over 120 plays, but only seven survive today, including Ajax, Antigone, Electra, and Oedipus Rex. The name Sofoklis combines “skilled” or “clever” from the Greek sophos with “glory” from kleos.
Classic Greek Boy Names
Anastasios
Meaning “resurrection” in Greek, Anastasios was a name used by many early saints. One notable saint was a seventh-century monk from Alexandria, Egypt.
Andreas
Andreas is the ancient Greek form of Andrew, which means “manly” or “masculine.” It has its roots in Greek and gained popularity in the Christian world, appearing in many languages.
Antonios
Antonios originated from the Roman family name Antonius. This name became famous due to Marc Antony, the renowned general who briefly ruled the Roman empire alongside Caesar Augustus before choosing Cleopatra over his empire.
Christakis
Christakis is a diminutive form of Chrestos, a Greek name that means “useful” or “good.”
Emmanouil
Derived from the Hebrew name Immanuel, Emmanouil means “God is with us.” In the Bible, this name is used to describe the Messiah.
Evangelos
This beautiful Greek name means “bringing good news.” It comes from the Greek word angelos, which means “messenger” and is also the root word for “angel.”
Ilias
Ilias is the Greek version of Elijah, meaning “God is Yahweh.” In the Bible, Elijah was a prophet and miracle worker. The name Ilias directly stems from the Latin form Elias.
Michail
Michail is the Greek variation of Michael, a Hebrew name that poses the rhetorical question, “Who is like God?”
Michael is known as one of the archangels in the Bible, the protector of Israel, and the patron saint of soldiers.
Spyridon
Spyridon can mean “basket” in Greek or “spirit” in Latin. The meaning you choose is up to your preference!
Theodoros
Theodoros, recognizable as Theodore, means “gift of God.” It has Greek origins and is paired with the girls’ name Dorothea, which shares the same meaning.
If expecting twin boys or a boy and girl, consider the combinations Theodoros and Dorotheos or Theodoros and Dorothea.
Cool and Modern Greek Boy Names
Agapitos
This boys’ name simply means “beloved.” Imagine giving your son a name that perfectly captures how deeply loved he will be.
Aristidis
Meaning “best” in Greek, this name was borne by a notable Athenian statesman known for his honor and integrity in the fifth century BCE.
Christoforos
The Greek version of Christopher, meaning “bearing Christ.” It carries the story of Saint Christopher, who, according to legend, became the patron saint of travelers by carrying Christ across a river.
Evgenios
The original spelling of Eugene, a name signifying “well born.” This name has been used by several saints and popes, emphasizing its rich history and significance.
Filippos
Meaning “friend of horse,” this name is the Greek equivalent of Philip. The name connects to the love of horses, a symbol of strength and companionship.
Heliodoros
A combination of the Greek words for “sun” (helios) and “gift” (doron), this name reflects a connection to Helios, the Titan and god of the sun in Greek mythology.
Iakovos
The Greek form of Jacob and James, it means “holder of the heel” or “supplanter,” rooted in the biblical story where Jacob was born holding his twin brother’s heel.
Pavlos
This Greek version of Paul means “small” or “humble” in Latin. The name is closely associated with Saint Paul the Apostle, who played a significant role in the spread of Christianity.
Stefanos
Meaning “crown” or “wreath,” this name is known as Stephen in the English-speaking world. Saint Stephen is remembered as the first Christian martyr.
Veniamin
The Greek form of Benjamin, meaning “son of the south” or “son of the right hand.”
In the Old Testament, Benjamin was the youngest son of Jacob and Rachel, and the founder of one of the southern Hebrew tribes.
Strong and Powerful Greek Boy Names
Agamemnon
Meaning “very steadfast,” Agamemnon was the warrior who led the Greek expedition to Troy to retrieve Helen.
This name exudes determination and leadership.
Aias
Aias, the Greek form of Ajax, means “earth mourner.”
He was a notable warrior in the Trojan War, known for his bravery.
Alkaios
This name translates to “strong” or “strength.”
Alkaios was also a poet from the island of Lesbos in the seventh century BCE, showcasing both physical and intellectual might.
Alexandros
The Greek version of Alexander, this name means “defending men.”
The greatest historical figure with this name is Alexander the Great, who built a vast empire.
Iraklis
Iraklis is derived from Herakles, a hero in both Greek and Roman mythology.
His name means “glory to Hera.” Despite many challenges, Herakles achieved immortality.
Leandros
Leandros, often spelled as Leandro, means “lion man.”
In Greek legend, Leander was known for his romantic endeavors, showing courage and dedication.
Leonidas
Meaning “lion,” this name refers to the Spartan king who heroically defended the Thermopylae Pass.
Leonidas symbolizes bravery and sacrifice.
Miltiadis
Miltiadis means “red earth” and was the name of a warrior who triumphed against the Persians in the Battle of Marathon.
This indicates strength and resilience.
Periklis
Periklis comes from Peracles, a prominent Athenian statesman and warrior.
The name combines “around” and “glory,” reflecting a life of distinguished service.
Viktor
Of Roman origin, Viktor means “victor” or “conqueror.”
It emphasizes triumph and success, gaining popularity in the nineteenth century.
More Strong and Powerful Greek Boy Names
If you’re still in need of strong contenders, check out 10 more Greek boy name options below:
- Achilles: Known for his strength and martial prowess in Greek mythology.
- Damon: Signifying loyalty, Damon was a figure of unwavering friendship.
- Helios: Representing the sun, embodying warmth and light.
- Nikephoros: Meaning “bringing victory,” highlighting success.
- Odysseus: Famed for his cleverness and endurance in the epic “Odyssey.”
- Perseus: A hero known for slaying Medusa, symbolizing courage.
- Theseus: Celebrated for his intelligence and strength, who defeated the Minotaur.
- Hermes: A messenger god known for his swiftness and cunning.
- Atlas: Holding up the sky, Atlas represents endurance and strength.
- Zephyros: The personification of the west wind, symbolizing vitality.
Cute Greek Boy Names
Alexis
Alexis is a unisex Greek name, typically used as a short form of Alexandros or Alexander. It means “helper” or “defender.”
Argyris
This cute name simply translates to “silver” in Greek.
Babis
Babis is the diminutive form of Charalampos, which means “to shine from happiness.”
Daniil
Daniil is the Greek form of the Hebrew name Daniel, meaning “God is my judge.”
In the Bible, Daniel was known for interpreting dreams for a Babylonian king.
Emilios
Emilios is the Greek version of the Roman name Aemilius. It means “rival,” and it’s derived from the male name Emil.
Kostas
Kostas is the Greek short form of Konstantinos, which translates to “constant” and is the Greek version of Constantine.
Loukas
Loukas is recognized as Lucas, Luke, or Luca. It means “from Lucania,” a region in southern Italy.
In the Bible, Luke was a physician who traveled with the apostle Paul.
Neofytos
Neofytos means “newly planted” in Greek, making it a delightful name for a newborn baby.
Nikos
Nikos is the Greek short form of Nikolaos, which is better known as Nicholas.
Silas
Silas could have two origins: a short form of the Latin Silvanus, meaning “of the woods,” or a variant of the Hebrew Saul, meaning “asked for, prayed for.”
Even More Greek Boy Names
Alexander
Alexander is a strong and classic name. It means “defender of the people.”
Nikolas
Nikolas is a name that means “victory of the people.” It’s a popular and timeless choice.
Dimitrios
Dimitrios means “follower of Demeter,” the Greek goddess of the harvest. It’s a name deeply rooted in Greek culture.
Leonidas
Leonidas translates to “lion-like.” It reflects strength and bravery, reminiscent of the famous Spartan king.
Andreas
Andreas means “manly” or “brave.” It’s a name associated with courage and strength.
Christos
Christos is derived from the Greek word for “anointed one” or “messiah.” It’s a name with religious significance.
Petros
Petros means “rock” or “stone.” It signifies stability and reliability.