How is the name translated from Greek. Mythical male and female names and their meaning
Greeks - amazing people , honoring the traditions of its ancestors for centuries and carefully passing on the accumulated knowledge and experience from generation to generation. Even the Greeks call children in such a way that the connection of centuries is not interrupted. The first girl born in a Greek family is usually named after her paternal grandmother. The second girl will be named after her mother's grandmother, the third will be named after her father's grandmother's sister, and so on.
The names of women in Greece, for the most part, are of Greek, local origin. If you try to classify them, you can distinguish several groups:
- Names borrowed from Orthodox calendars: Irini, Ekaterini and so on.
- Names that have mythological basis: for example, a very common name Aphrodite.
- Names with Latin or Jewish roots: Maria, Anna.
In addition, today Greek girls often called names borrowed from peoples living in western Europe. For example, a name such as Isabella. If the name is not associated with ancient history or mythology, most likely, it will give its bearer a flattering description: her beauty, moral qualities, character.
Greek civilization is one of the first to appear in the world. Therefore, it is not surprising that many peoples borrowed names from the Greeks, including female ones. In accordance with the local pronunciation, they were somewhat modified, but still remained Greek. They bore the seal of double sacredness.
After all, only Greek names consecrated twice: in times of paganism and with the advent of the era of Christianity.
Greek female names are unique in that they emphasize exclusively positive qualities of a person. Many European names originated from offensive nicknames and, studying them, we learn that the first owner of the name was “crooked”, or, say, “incorrect”. Greek women are different. Their names sound like the sounds of a beautiful ancient song. It is no coincidence that many of these names were borne by lovely pagan goddesses.
Curl of Aphrodite
Names in Greece have a sacred meaning. Each of them is a reason for research. There is numerology in Greek names, each letter in them has a meaning. Especially when we are talking about women's names. And, even more so, if these names are borrowed from Hellenic mythology, which is one of the most amazing phenomena in the history of mankind.
For example, a Greek female name
This the name comes from the name of the mythological goddess of love and beauty sung by many poets. Aphrodite is the daughter of the supreme god of the Greek pantheon - Zeus and the goddess of hunting and fertility Diana. According to legend, Aphrodite came ashore from the sea foam. Aphrodite is one of the most beloved goddesses in Ancient Greece, the patroness of love and marriage, and, in addition, the most charming woman in Greek mythology.
Numerology assigned the name Aphrodite the number three. This number is related to creativity. Women bearing the name Aphrodite, in theory, should be talented in literature, painting, and sports. They are reckless and cheerful, and, in this regard, sometimes too carried away. Aphrodite needs support and an adviser, which can be a loved one. With proper support, Aphrodite can, as they say, move mountains.
Women with the name Aphrodite are sensitive to rudeness, to criticism, and are easily vulnerable. Without support, they dry out like roses. Difficult in personal life. Aphrodites need affection and understanding.
The name Aphrodite is influenced by the planet Saturn. Her element is earth or water. Zodiac sign - Aquarius or Capricorn. Aphrodite is a symbol of the beginning, striving forward, thirst for knowledge.
Aurora, Hecuba and Cassandra
Another female Greek name of mythological origin is Aurora. That was the name of the goddess in Hellenic legends dawn. As expected, girls named Aurora, complex, sometimes capricious. Outwardly, most often they look like a father, but the character is maternal. Main feature women, called Aurors - stubbornness not only in moving towards the goal, but also in their wrongness: in everything they stand their ground.
And here is the name Hecuba is based not on the nickname of the goddess, but on the name mortal woman who became the heroine of the epic. Hecuba is the wife of the elderly king of Troy, Priam. After the Greeks destroyed Troy, she ended up on the ship of the cunning Odysseus as a slave. The owners of the name Hecuba almost always show an active life position and clearly know what they need from life.
Cope well with life situations, they are not embarrassed by a sudden change of scenery. However, for women named by this name, a rapid loss of interest in a phenomenon that has just been extremely important to them is characteristic. So long projects are not their forte. Hecuba is bold and resolute, ready to sacrifice for the sake of her family and friends. He is a ringleader in many matters and real soul companies.
Many girls in Greece are named after Cassandra, despite the fact that this name bears a tragic imprint. Cassandra was the most charming of the daughters of the old man Priam. When Great Troy fell, the girl went to Agamemnon as a slave and, upon arrival in Mycenae, was killed by the vengeful Clytemnestra. Cassandra had the gift of divination, which she received from the god Apollo.
The owners of the name Kassandra are talented and persistent in achieving their goals. They are rarely overcome by doubt and depression.
Such women are able to compete on equal terms with men in any field, including the ability to earn money. However, for all this they need recharge. That nourishment is love.
Beautiful Greek female names in Russia
The most commonly used female names in our country that came from Greece are Anastasia, Alexandra, Vera, Polina, Hope, Love, and so on. IN Ancient Rus' Greek names penetrated along with Christianity. Russia and Greece are two countries connected by strong historical and cultural threads that cannot be broken.
The name Alexander is translated from Greek as "protector of people." This Greek name has a male counterpart and is very common in our country. Parents who call the girl Alexandra need to remember that she is likely to grow up capricious and proud. However, she will be very talented and active. Sasha often achieve great heights in sports.
Alexandra is secretive, with Mother mutual language finds with difficulty. She studies well, but only if she decides that she needs it in life. Home affairs attract Alexandra badly, but in public affairs she has no equal. Girls, given names that have a "boy" counterpart, tend to reach out to people of the opposite sex. Alexandra is more interested in the company of boys than girls.
Anastasia- one of the most common Greek names in Russia. This name is covered with a veil of fabulousness to such an extent that it can be safely called a cult one. So the girls, whom their parents call Anastasia, can be said to be destined to be the most beautiful and smartest. It is believed that Nastya are not vindictive, evil. On the contrary, the owners of such a name are kind and sometimes defenseless, they are easy to offend.
Anastasia is often chosen creative professions. Among the actresses, ballerinas, poetesses, there are many women with that name. In addition, Anastasia is very fond of children and often become kindergarten teachers, teachers, child psychologists. Distinctive feature woman named Anastasia - phenomenal fidelity to the hearth.
The name Anastasia is translated from Greek as "resurrecting."
And that says a lot. It is no coincidence that in Russian folk tales Nastenka "resurrected" her betrothed, sometimes in literally, but more often in the metaphysical. With her kindness and affection, Nastenka changed a person, made him better, turned him to the light. This crucial moment in the history of Russian history and literature, having direct contact with the biblical tradition of Christ.
The era in which female Greek names were created was dark and terrible. The man was not protected from animals, or from fires, or - what is the most terrible - from his own brethren. In this dark time, parents tried to somehow protect their child. Sometimes they had nothing to give the child protection. Nothing but a name. And very often the name became for a girl the best protection than the sharpest sword.
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Good afternoon, dear readers! In this article, we will look at Greek male names, which are common in the Russian-speaking space, and their meanings, as well as names that are especially popular in Greece itself.
Maybe this article will help you choose a beautiful Greek name for a boy, who knows! So let's start...
Popular Greek male names
Greek names came to us along with Christianity. Many of them were paired, some (Evgeny - Evgeny, for example) are still used today. And there are some that are almost never seen. So, the name Anastasius (paired to Anastasia), if you can hear it, then only in monasteries.
Most of the names are of ancient Greek origin, which means they are closely related to the culture and history of Greece. Let's start with those names that are related to ancient Greek mythology.
Male names and myths of ancient Greece
Name Dmitriy or Demetrius (Δημήτριος) associated with the ancient Greek goddess of fertility Demeter (Δημήτηρ) and is translated as “dedicated to Demeter”.
Denis (Διόνυσος) was originally a shortened form of the name Dionysius. It comes from the name Διόνυσος. Dictionaries indicate two meanings: the first, in fact, the name of Dionysus himself, Greek god winemaking, and the second is a synonym for the word Διονυσιακός, which means “belonging to Dionysus”.
Another name supposedly associated with mythology is Artemy (Αρτέμιος). Today, its colloquial form is more common - Artyom. According to one version, the name means "dedicated to Artemis" ( Artemis - Ἄρτεμις- goddess of hunting and female chastity). According to another, more likely, it comes from the ancient Greek word ἀρτεμής - “healthy, unharmed”.
The word νίκη - "victory" is found in many names: Nicholas (Νικόλαος)- νίκη + λαός - “people”, Nikita (Νικήτας)-- from the Greek νικητής - "winner", Nicephorus (Νικηφόρος)- from the ancient Greek νικηφόρος - “victorious” and others. And also Nika (Νίκη)- Name ancient greek goddess victory.
Male names and place names
There are also such names derived from the name of any locality.
For example, Anatoly (Ανατόλιος) derived from ανατολικός, which means "eastern" (ανατολή - "east", "sunrise"). Anatolia is one of the names of Asia Minor.
Name Arkady derived from the word Ἀρκάς (genitive form - Ἀρκάδος), which translates as "inhabitant of Arcadia". Arcadia (Αρκαδία) is a region in Greece on the Peloponnese peninsula. In ancient times, cattle breeding was developed there, hence the figurative meaning of the name Arkady is “shepherd”. The name of this area is presumably associated with the name of the son of Zeus and the nymph Callisto, whose name was Arkad (Arkas - Ἀρκάς).
Inhabitants of Arcadia national costumes. Each of them is Arkas. Photo www.arcadiaportal.gr/
"Talking" names
Among the Greek names, there are many that mean some kind of positive quality - wisdom, strength, nobility.
Alexander (Αλέξανδρος)- perhaps the most common name. It was formed from two ancient Greek words: ἀλέξω - "to protect" and ἀνδρός - the genitive form of ἀνήρ - "man". So this name is translated as “protector of men”. The name has the same meaning. Alexei (Αλέξιος) from ἀλέξω - “protect”, “repel”, “prevent”.
Name similar in meaning - Andrew (Ανδρεας). It comes from the Greek word ανδρείος - “brave, courageous”.
Here are two more "courageous" names: Leonid (Λεωνίδας)- means “like a lion”: λέων - “lion”, είδος - “like”, “kind” and Peter (Πέτρος)- from ancient Greek it is translated as "rock, stone".
A good example of “speaking names” is Eugene (Ευγένιος). It is formed from the ancient Greek word εὐγενής - “noble”, “noble” (εὖ - “good” and γένος - “kind”). A name similar in meaning is Gennady (Γεννάδιος). It goes back to the ancient Greek word γεννάδας - "noble origin".
Cyril (Κύριλλος) comes from the word Κύρος "strength", "authority", which was formed from the ancient Greek κύριος - "master".
Another "noble" name - Basil (Βασίλειος). It goes back to the ancient Greek word βασίλιος (βασίλειος) - “royal, regal” from βασιλεύς - “king, ruler”.
Name George (Γεώργιος) derived from the ancient Greek word γεωργός - "farmer". The names Yuri and Yegor are its derivatives; in the 1930s they were recognized as independent names. Another derivative is the word “cheat” - “deceive”. This word has a curious etymology: on the day of St. George, in the fall, transactions and tax collection were carried out, the peasants could move from one owner to another. Literally, it meant "to deceive on Yuryev (Egoriev) day."
Do not confuse with the name Gregory (Γρηγόριος)- from γρηγορέύω - to be awake, to be vigilant, to hurry, and also γρήγορος - fast, nimble, lively.
Here is an unexpected example. What do most Russians associate with the name Kuzma or Kuzya? With a cartoon about a brownie. 🙂 But it's not that simple. The original form of this name is Kozma (Kozma - Κοσμάς) and it comes from the Greek word κόσμος - “cosmos, universe, order”. And it’s also interesting that in Russian there is a word “(under) Kuzmit”. Its meaning is almost the opposite - to intrigue, deceive, let down.
First name Fedor (Theodore - Θεόδωρος) means "God's gift" from θεός - "God" and δῶρον - "gift". This name is not the only one in which the word θεός occurs. For example, popular in last years Name Timothy (Τιμώθεος)- translated as "worshiping god" - τιμώ - "to honor" and θεός - "god".
By the way, Fedot is also a Greek name - Θεοδότης i.e. given to God.
Male names most popular in Greece itself
At one time, a study was conducted of 60 thousand Greek male names, and it gave a curious result. As it turned out, almost half of the male population of the country (47%) are carriers of only six names!
The most common name is Γεώργιος (Yorgos, George), 11.1 percent of men wear it.
- Ιωάννης - Yannis, John 8.55%
- Κωνσταντίνος - Konstantinos 7.97%
- Δημήτρης - Dimitris, Dmitry 7.65%
- Νικόλαος - Nikolaos, Nicholas 6.93%
- Παναγιώτης - Panagiotis 4.71%
All the rest make up a motley picture of more than five hundred names of the different origin. Another 30 names of the most common:
Βασίλης — Vasilis 3.60
Χρήστος - Christ 3.56
Αθανάσιος - Athanasios 2.43
Μιχαήλ - Michael 2,27
Ευάγγελος - Evangelos 1.98
Σπύρος - Spiros (Spyridon) 1.98
Αντώνης — Antonis 1.87
Αναστάσιος — Anastasios 1.64
Θεόδωρος - Theodoros 1.57
Ανδρέας — Andreas 1.54
Χαράλαμπος - Charalambos 1.54
Αλέξανδρος — Alexandros 1.45
Εμμανουήλ - Emmanuel 1.37
Ηλίας - Ilias 1.34
Σταύρος — Stavros 1.02
Πέτρος — Petros 0.94
Σωτήριος — Sotiris 0.92
Στυλιανός — Stilianos 0.88
Ελευθέριος — Eleftherios 0.78
Απόστολος — Apostolos 0.75
Φώτιος — Fotios 0.68
Διονύσιος — Dionysios 0.65
Γρηγόριος — Grigorios 0.64
Άγγελος — Angelos 0.62
Στέφανος — Stefanos 0.59
Ευστάθιος — Eustafios 0.59
Παύλος — Pavlos 0.56
Παρασκευάς — Paraskevas 0.56
Αριστείδης - Aristidis 0.56
Λεωνίδας — Leonidas 0.50
Ancient Greek names
Of the five hundred most common names in Greece, 120 are ancient Greek. If we talk about the share of such names in total mass, then they are no more than 5 percent. The most common names Αριστείδης (Aristides) And Λεωνίδας (Leonid), they are in the list, respectively, on the 35th and 36th places.
Below are the 50 most popular ancient names out of these 120. I am writing the Greek pronunciation, you already know the adapted version or come up with it yourself.)
Αριστείδης - Aristidis
Λεωνίδας — Leonidas
Περικλής - Periklis
Δημοσθένης - Dimosthenis
Μιλτιάδης - Miltiadis
Αχιλλέας - Achilleas
Θεμιστοκλής - Themistoklis
Ηρακλής - Iraklis (Hercules)
Σωκράτης - Sokratis
Αριστοτέλης - Aristotelis
Επαμεινώνδας - Epaminondas
Ξενοφών - Xenophon
Οδυσσέας - Odysseas
Σοφοκλής - Sophocles
Ορέστης - Orestis
Αριστομένης - Aristomenis
Μενέλαος - Menelaos
Τηλέμαχος - Tilemachos
Αλκιβιάδης - Alkiviadis
Κίμων - Kimon
Θρασύβουλος - Thrasivoulos
Αγησίλαος - Agisilaos
Αρης - Aris
Νέστωρ - Nestor
Πάρις - Paris
Όμηρος - Omiros (Homer)
Κλεάνθης - Cleanfis
Φωκίων - Phocion
Ευριπίδης - Euripides
Πλάτων - Plato
Νεοκλής - Neoklis
Φαίδων - Phaedon
Φοίβος - Fivos (Phoebus)
Πλούταρχος - Plutarchos
Σόλων - Solon
Ιπποκράτης - Hippocratis (Hippocrates)
Διομήδης - Diomidis
Αγαμέμνων - Agamemnon
Πολυδεύκης - Polideukis
Λυκούργος - Lycurgos
Ιάσων - Jason
Κλεομένης - Cleomenis
Κλέων - Cleon
Μίνως - Minos
Αγαθοκλής - Agathocles
Εκτωρ - Hector (Hector)
Αρίσταρχος - Aristarchos
Ορφέας - Orfeas
Μύρων - Miron
Νικηφόρος - Nikiforos
In addition to the usual Greek names, there are many borrowed names - from Europe, the Middle East and even Russia.
For example, there is a name Βλαδίμηρος - in my opinion, it’s clear where Vladimir came from.)
There are European names, changed to Greek mode. Rare name Βύρων (Viron)- a derivative of Lord Byron, the Greeks called him that way. The most common of these names
- Αλβέρτος - Albert,
- Βαλέριος - Valery,
- Βίκτωρ - Victor,
- Γουλιέλμος - Wilhelm,
- Δομένικος - Dominic,
- Εδουάρδος - Edward,
- Ερρίκος - Eric, Heinrich.
Of course, not all names are described here. But on this we do not say goodbye to this topic, we are still waiting for Greek female names, which you will learn about in the next article.
Male names Greek origin used in many countries. This is their main feature. Although the Greeks borrowed names from other languages different peoples, But modern people attracts exactly how the representatives of one of the the greatest countries antiquity.
How did the Greeks name their children?
According to tradition, the first newborn in the family received the name of the grandfather on the paternal side, the second - on the maternal side. The third child could be called anything, but general rule was not to use the father's name. Over time, this tradition has led to the fact that great amount people have the same Greek names. Greeks rarely give male modern names according to these rules precisely because of the sameness, which they want to get rid of if possible. Greek names are divided into two categories. The first is the classical, antique types of names that have primordially national origin. The second - those names that only partially refer to the Greeks and are included in the Orthodox calendar. It is they who are mainly categorized as Greek names throughout the world. Also interesting feature is the fact that absolutely all of them have some flattering meaning for the carrier.
Greek male names. Full list
This list contains exactly those names that are in Orthodox calendar and do not belong for the most part to ancient history.
Values (A-D)
Below is the meaning of the names. There are a lot of Greek male names, therefore only a brief description is given.
Agathon- good, good. The restrained bearer of this name rarely worries about the opinions of people that do not interest him. Tries not to get involved in conflicts. Good family man, capable of making the woman he loves happy, loves children and his own home.
Angel- distinguished by fairness and honesty. Extremely hardworking, one might even say fanatical. In a relationship, he is unstable until he finds his only one.
Arius- very touchy, but not vindictive and very easygoing. Good. Good family man.
Arkhip- clean, squeamish. Extremely patient with family relationships.
Akaki- indecisive, touchy and jealous. However, incredibly kind.
Andrey- cunning, dreamy. He does not like to stand out, but gradually achieves exactly what he wants.
Aristarch- family a kind person, loving children and own house.
Athanasius- pleasant, modest and non-confrontational.
Alexander- protector. Differs in leadership qualities, but is very susceptible to the effects of alcohol.
Andrian- Patient, attentive, easily injured.
Arkady- sociable, obligatory and prefers a confident, stable future.
Alexei- diligent, individual, good family man.
Anikita- cheerful and sociable, but inattentive and frivolous.
Arseniy- taciturn, not a careerist, bold and stubborn.
Ambrose- impressionable, has an analytical mindset, unambitious.
Anisim- stubborn, can not stand loneliness, patient, economic.
Artem- calm, unobtrusive, complaisant.
Anatoly- calm, can find a common language with any person.
Appolinarius- strong-willed, has leadership qualities, a wonderful father.
Artemy- persistent, stubborn, likes to argue, strict.
Boyan- stubborn, persistent, proud, authoritative.
Basil- gallant, conscientious, very kind to friends.
Vissarion- stubborn, inquisitive, modest.
Galaction- Serious, sad, honest and faithful.
Gennady- knows how to adapt to circumstances, rushes to his goal, not stopping at nothing.
George- squeamish, a good listener, knows how to keep secrets.
Herald- quick-witted, likes to help others, excellent memory.
Gerasim- executive and obligatory
Gordey- modest, peaceful, optimistic.
Gordon- Purposeful, restrained, independent.
Gregory- cheerful, vulnerable, sensitive.
Values (D - K)
Greek names for men are very diverse, despite the fact that some of them are very similar to each other.
Demid- good-natured, cautious in family relationships, loves children.
Demyan- Demanding, proud and selfish. Courageous and does not tolerate cowards.
Denis- sociable, obligatory and accurate.
Dmitriy- bold, charming, but cruel.
Dorotheus- persistent, cheerful, benevolent.
Eugene- savvy, hardworking, good family man.
Evgraf- mobile and restless, he has excellent intuition.
Evdokim- kind, complaisant and emotional.
Yevsey- soft, kind, sympathetic and responsible.
Egor- stubborn, distrustful, but diligent and hardworking.
Emelyan- calm, freedom-loving, resourceful.
Yermolai- public, respected, kind, sympathetic.
Erofei- modest, quiet and compliant.
Yefim- sensitive and hardworking.
Efimy- sensitive, boastful and arrogant.
Georges- firm, persistent, bold.
Zinovy- patient, calm, kind.
Jerome- inquisitive, quick-witted, smart and curious.
Ilian- inquisitive, observant, savvy and resourceful.
Hilarion- spiritualized, vulnerable, shy and indecisive.
Ionos- emotional, stubborn, hardworking.
Hippolyte- sociable, efficient, irritable.
Heraclius- efficient, vulnerable and emotional.
Isidore- irritable, sociable, very hardworking.
Kirill- excellent memory, selfish, ambitious.
Kondrat- self-confident, balanced, optimistic.
Xannf- Efficient, active, has excellent intuition.
Kuzma- restless, persistent, independent.
As can be seen from this list, beautiful male Greek names are found even in modern times, not to mention antiquity
Values (L - R)
Nowadays, some Greek names for men are so common that few people remember where they originally came from and what meanings they had.
a lion- calm, persistent and conscientious.
Leon- imperturbable, talented, has a developed intuition.
Leonid- proud, adapts well to circumstances.
Leonty- unsociable, greedy and cruel.
Luke- principled, stubborn, impulsive.
Makar- kind, efficient, sociable.
Methodius- unpredictable, friendly and attentive.
Myron- kind, accommodating and hardworking.
Michael- sociable, has a logical mindset.
Modest- selfish, bold and uninhibited.
Nestor- Emotional, decisive, hardworking.
Nicanor- phlegmatic, proud, resourceful.
Nikita- selfish, purposeful, persistent and stubborn.
Nikifor- cheerful and energetic, impatient and irritable.
Nicholas- strong, active, practical, hardworking.
Nikon- choleric, independent, proud.
Nifont- proud, ambitious and selfish.
Oles- Serious, reasonable, inquisitive.
Onesimus- self-sufficient, talented, cheerful.
Orestes- complaisant, persistent, fair.
Pamphilus- sociable, cheerful and inoffensive.
Pankrat- truthful, fair, uncompromising.
Paramon- serious, thorough, judicious.
Peter- inquisitive, determined, excellent family man.
Pimen- kind, docile, inquisitive.
Plato- independent, hardworking, multifaceted.
Porfiry- economic, calm, has leadership qualities.
Prokofy- strong-willed, strong, has leadership qualities.
Prokhor- unsociable, jealous, hardworking.
Radium- stubborn, courageous, hardworking.
Rodion- independent, balanced, hardy.
Values (S - Z)
Greek names, especially for men, can suit absolutely any child, as they cover all areas of human activity.
Sevastyan- stubborn, flexible, touchy.
Socrates- unbalanced, fair, squeamish.
Spartacus- fearless, cunning, irritable.
Stakrat- cocky, stubborn, vulnerable.
Stephen- unobtrusive, attentive, not indifferent to alcohol.
Stoyan- courageous, strong, fair.
Thais- calm, inquisitive, stubborn.
Taras- mobile, stubborn, smart.
Tigran- inquisitive, emotional, hardworking.
tiger- capricious, stubborn, persistent.
Timon- organized, restrained, closed.
Timothy- sensitive, receptive, inquisitive.
Tikhon- healthy, obedient, educated.
Tryphon- stubborn, patient, balanced.
Trofim- capricious, restless, disobedient.
Theodosius- good-natured, touchy, distracted.
Filimon- impulsive, restless, kind.
Philip- distracted, jealous, greedy.
Khariton- stubborn, fair, honest.
Christian- has excellent memory and intuition.
Christopher- stubborn, quick-witted, inquisitive.
Yuri- calm, restrained, cunning.
Yuhim- stubborn, inquisitive, obligatory.
Yakim- honest, fair, has authority.
Jason- Intelligent, self-respecting.
Ancient Greek (antique) names
Common old Greek male names, the list of which is given below, are not so common nowadays, although they are also incredibly charismatic and beautiful.
Agamemnon- incredibly determined.
Argyros- translates as "silver".
Ariston- embodies superiority over others.
Aristoteles- also translated as superiority, but aimed at a specific goal.
Aristophanes- the same superiority, or rather the process of its appearance.
Archimedes- stands for "possessing thoughts."
Asclepius- means "giving prosperity."
Democritos- one who has the right to judge others.
Daemon- oddly enough, but it simply means "people."
Zeno- comes from the name of Zeus and means commitment to this supreme deity.
Irenaeus- means "peace, peacefulness."
Irinarch- this name should be understood as "peaceful leader."
Karpos- has two meanings: "fruit and profit."
Space- is the epitome of beauty.
Creon- translates as "ruling".
Xenon- means "strange, foreigner."
xenophon- "strange voice" is implied.
Macedonia- translates as "high".
Mentor means "spirit".
Olympos- means "abode of the gods."
Pantaleon- can be understood as "lion".
Pluto- translates as "wealth".
Polycarpos- is meant as "fruitfulness".
Timon means "honor".
Philo- translates as "loving".
Hector means "protective".
Heracles- the name comes from the name of the goddess Hera and means her praise.
Hermes Literally means "out of the earth".
Erebos means "darkness".
Eros- translates as "love".
As you can see, the Greek names of the male gods were also praised, and the boys were named after the inhabitants of Olympus.
Multipart names
The Greeks, like many other nations, also had multi-component names in which one was given at birth, and the second could be a kind of nickname recognized big amount the people around him. Sometimes these were laudatory nicknames that were given for any deeds that glorified this person. However, in some cases, if he was guilty very big, but continues to live on, the Greek was given an offensive name, with which he was forced to exist until the end of his days. As practice shows, it was more terrible than some types of punishments.
Results
Based on the foregoing, it can be understood that Greek names, masculine in particular, were incredibly diverse and gave their bearer different features. So it has remained to this day. Despite the fact that in our time, few people remember that this or that name has roots in ancient antiquity, in fact, the culture of the inhabitants of Hellas gave a lot to the vast majority of the countries and nationalities that now exist.
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mythical names
Mythical male and female names and their meaning
mythical names- these are names taken from Roman, Greek, Scandinavian, Slavic, Egyptian and other mythology.
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mythical names. Mythical male and female names and their meaning
The ancient world did not know the saints, and the people of that time knew nothing about guardian angels and intercessors. But this does not mean at all that they did not believe in heavenly patrons. Newborn boys and girls were entrusted to the care of the gods living on Olympus. On the other hand, like our Slavic pagan ancestors, the ancient Greeks endowed their children with nicknames that reflected actual or desired qualities. For example, Aoid - "singing", or Aniketos, which means "invincible".
As in many cultures of antiquity, ancient Greek names glorify the forces of nature or compare a person with a flower, plant, animal. Examples can be given: Astreya (Star), Iolanta (purple flower), Leonidas (son of Leo). Some names smoothly "migrated" in our time, took root in the modern Greek culture and among us, those Slavs who fell under the influence of Christianity of the Eastern rite.
It should be said that the ancient Romans borrowed their Pantheon from the Greeks, giving their gods their names. Therefore, in Western Europe and in Slavic lands, where the Catholic religion is widespread, there are ancient Greek names derived from the same only with a Latin name. For example, Marsilius (god of war), Diana (goddess of the moon and hunting).
Old-new names
Do you love culture but don't want to cut ties with Christianity? Then we can advise you on the names that have moved to Orthodox saints. And then your child can be named sonorously and beautifully. His name will be rooted in the distant past. He can celebrate birthdays and will be protected by a heavenly patron.
And there is nothing surprising in this. After all, the first apostles, among whom were the Hellenes, bore ancient Greek male names. Let us recall, for example, Philippos. Beautiful name this apostle means "lover of horses." The girl, named Helen, will grow up, perhaps as beautiful as the ancient Greek wife of King Menelaus, abducted by Paris. What does Ἑλένη (Helene) mean? "Light-bearing", "torch". The male counterpart of this ancient Greek name is Helen. In addition to Elena, Philip and the already mentioned Leonid, a dozen more names passed from the ancient world to the modern one: Vasily, Dmitry, Hippolytus, Zenon, Eirena (later turned into Irina) and others.
For lovers of the Olympic cult
And why not, in fact, call the child beautiful and original name, giving him as patrons not some saints and apostolic equals, but one of the gods? Moreover, there are so many of them in the Greek Pantheon. Now, in the cultural elite of the world, the fashion for ancient Greek female names, as well as for male ones, has gone. Recall at least Eros Ramazzotti or Penelope Cruz. At famous singer the name of the god of love, the companion of Aphrodite.
The girlfriend of the young wizard Harry Potter from the book by J. Rowling also has Hermes, the son of Zeus and Maya, the patron of artisans, merchants, thieves and wanderers, who clearly patronizes this girl. Hermione is also mentioned in Homer's poem "The Iliad": she is the daughter of the beautiful Helen and Menelaus.
There are many more names whose bearers are "dedicated" to some Olympic ("art", "sun"), Nika ("victory"), Irida ("rainbow"). However, be careful. Names ancient greek gods beautiful, but the inhabitants of Olympus themselves have never been famous for their soft and docile disposition. In this they differ from the Christian god of love. Together with positive qualities of his patron, a child may inherit his negative traits: vindictiveness, deceit, jealousy.
Connoisseurs of the culture of ancient Greece
Anyone who is in love with the tragedies of Aeschylus and Euripides, in the comedies of Aristophanes, who is read by Homer, will easily find in these works beautiful and sonorous names. Of these, you can choose those about which the language of the Russian-speaking environment will not break. For example, Aeneas - "praised", "approved". A good name is Phoenix, which means "purple" - a color that was allowed to be worn only by aristocrats. The boy Odysseus will inherit from his famous namesake, sung by Homer, courage, ingenuity and passion for travel.
In the myths and works of that civilization, you can also find very beautiful ancient Greek names of women. For example, Electra - which means "bright", "shining". Or the muse of astronomy Urania - her name means "heavenly". You can simply call the girl Muse or dedicate her to one of them, for example, Thalia or Calliope. In the myths of Ancient Greece, there are many beautiful nymphs, whose beauty captivated even the gods: Maya, Adrastea, Daphne, etc.
Love saves the world
Ancient Greek names that begin or end with a “phyllo” fragment fit very well on the tongue and caress the ear. This prefix means "Love". It can be applied not only to the passion for horses, like Philip, but also to singing - Philomena. The Greeks really appreciated this quality - to be able to love. They also wanted everyone around to appreciate their son or daughter. Therefore, the names of Philo, Theophilus, Philemon ("gentle") and others like them were common in the same way as we have with the prefix "glory" and "peace".
The Greeks were a very pious people. In the Hellenistic period, names appeared that meant the patronage of God, without specifying which one. Timothy is "one who honors God." Theodora - "His gift". There are also names pointing to the king of the gods - Zeus. Zenobia is life from Jupiter the Thunderer, and Zeophania is his manifestation on earth. Zeno means "dedicated", "belonging to Zeus".
Nicknames
These ancient Greek names are the most numerous. After spending them scientific analysis, you can understand what qualities were valued in this civilization. After all, the parents called the name Atreus ("fearless") or Aella ("fast as a whirlwind") of a baby who had not yet stood on his feet. One thing is clear: as in all the world, they wished their sons to grow up brave (Adrastos), strong (Menander), steadfast (Menelaus), defenders of the weak (Alexei, Alexander), brave (Alkina).
Oddly enough, in women, the Greeks valued not so much beauty as the quality of the hostess guarding the hearth. Therefore, the parents called the newborn a protector (Alexa), a spinner (Klaso), a calmer (Amalzeya), a good one (Agatha) and simply a housewife (Despoin). Motherhood was also valued, the ability to give birth to children (Metrofanes).
Warrior State
The ancient Greek names of boys indicate that their parents would like them to become owners of large livestock. Archippos means "having horses" and Archilaos means "slave owner". A rich harvest in life was promised to Athamus and Eustachis.
Male names give reason to believe that the Greeks often fought, and all the young men had to take part in the campaigns. Wanting to save their offspring from death, their mothers called them Amon ("hidden from danger"), Andreas (" good warrior"), Ambrosios ("immortal") and Azarias ("having help from God"). However, the boy could also be called the name Apollonios, which means "destroyer".
names that symbolize the forces of nature
This is the most ancient group, leading origin from the totemic society. Men were hunters, and therefore they needed accuracy, skill and strength in the fight against the beast. To provide their sons with these qualities necessary for life, the parents called them Zopyros ("flaming", "aspiring"), Gregorios ("cautious"), Achilleus ("painful"), Andronikos ("victor of people") and Jerazimos (" living to old age"). And so that the son returned safely home alive and unharmed, he was called the name Nestor.
Ancient people spiritualized the forces of nature. Aeolus was patronized by the winds, Anatolaios by the east and dawn, Alcmene by the moon, Kyros by the sun, and Castor by the beaver. There are many names in which the word "lion" is present: Panteleon, Leonidas, and so on. Another totemic symbol was the horse: so Hippocrates means "power of the horse." Parents gave their sons under the patronage of the mountains (Origen), the ocean (Okinos) and even the night (Orpheus).
The recluses of the gynoecium
Ancient Greek society was deeply sexist. The supremacy of men was never questioned. Women were deprived of all political and civil rights and, having married, they passed from the father's house to the husband's house as the property of the latter. The whole life of the so-called "decent woman" took place in the gynaecium - the female half of the house. Only getters appeared freely on the streets of cities.
Naturally, mothers wished their daughters happiness. The way they understood it: to marry an accommodating spouse, give birth to him more children and not die from childbirth. Therefore, the ancient Greek names for girls fully reflected the aspirations of their mothers. Amaranthos means "not disappearing", Altea - "quick healing", Ageip and Agapayos - "impossible to stop loving." And Zozima is just a "survivor". The Arcadians wanted to live among peaceful bucolics. Glyceria is the "sweetest" (of course, it was meant to be a joy for her husband). And Aspasia meant "greeting".
names symbolizing the elements, flowers and animals
At the same time, parents dedicated their newborn daughters to the forces of nature. Arethus - the water element, Anemone - the wind in general, and Zephyr - the western trade wind, Iris - the rainbow. The animals, after which the girls were named, are very graceful and beautiful. For example, Holkyon is a small kingfisher bird, Dorsia is a gazelle, and Dapna is a laurel. There are a lot of names that mean flowers (Anzeya, Anthus): purple (Iolanta), gold (Chryseida), dark (Melanta). But, of course, such a quality as beauty has always been appreciated among the female sex. She corresponds to the name Aglaya.
Choose wisely
If you want to name your child with an ancient name, you need to think carefully and analyze the ancient Greek names and their meanings. After all, it may turn out that beautiful name Apollonia hides the unseemly meaning of "destructive". But the word "kind" in the Greeks does not sound very pleasant - Akakaios. You also need to remember that now Glaucus is not a name at all, but a position. The names of the ancient Greeks were sometimes very tricky - Agazangelos, for example. So don't break your tongue.
