Greek names are some of the oldest still in everyday use. Most carry a meaning rooted in mythology, philosophy, or virtue, they were chosen, originally, to mean something. Ten that still land today.
- Alexander, "defender of the people." A king's name for over 2,300 years.
- Sophia, "wisdom." The personification of wisdom itself in Greek thought.
- Theodore, "gift of God." Quietly back in style, with the nickname Theo.
- Zoe, "life." Three letters, complete sentence.
- Cassandra, "shining upon man." A name shadowed by tragedy, but the meaning is light.
- Damian, "to tame, to subdue." A healer's name in early Christian tradition.
- Penelope, "weaver." The patient, clever wife of Odysseus.
- Nikolaos / Nicholas, "victory of the people."
- Phoebe, "bright, pure." A Titan goddess of the moon.
- Orion, A mythological hunter; now a constellation.
More like this? Browse all Greek names.