110+ Greek Mythology Baby Names Meanings: Beautiful, Powerful & Inspiring Names for Girls, Boys & Unisex

Choosing a name from ancient Greece gives your child a story that has survived for more than two thousand years. Greek mythology baby names meanings are so rich because every name carries a character, a power, a flaw or a lesson. Some belong to goddesses who ruled the heavens. Others belong to heroes who fought monsters, musicians who charmed the underworld, or nymphs who became trees. That depth is why Greek mythology baby names keep returning to parents’ shortlists.

This guide gives you more than 110 Greek mythology names and meanings. You will find Greek mythology girl names and meanings, Greek mythology boy names and meanings, gender-neutral Greek names with meaning, and a large list of uncommon Greek mythology names. Every entry explains what the name means, who carried it in the myths, and what kind of feeling it gives your child.

Whether you want a famous classic like Athena or Apollo, or a hidden gem like Galatea or Cadmus, these Greek mythology baby names meanings will help you choose with confidence.

Quick Answer: Greek mythology baby names meanings usually come from ancient Greek words for qualities such as light, strength, wisdom, life or the natural world. Popular Greek mythology baby names for girls include Athena, Selene (“moon”), Zoe (“life”) and Penelope. For boys, favourites include Atlas (“enduring”), Jason (“healer”), Hector (“holding fast”) and Leander (“lion man”). Gender-neutral Greek mythology names include Phoenix, Echo, Orion and Alexis. Uncommon Greek mythology names such as Calliope, Helios and Zephyr suit parents who want something rare with a real story behind it.

How to Read These Greek Mythology Baby Names Meanings

Before you scroll, it helps to know how to read Greek mythology names and meanings. Many of these names are thousands of years old, and scholars do not always agree on where they came from. Where a meaning is debated, we say so, so you never promise your child a meaning that may not be accurate.

Each entry follows the same simple pattern:

• Meaning: the most widely accepted translation from ancient Greek.
• Myth connection: the god, goddess, hero or creature who made the name famous.
• Vibe and nicknames: the feeling the name gives, plus short forms for daily life.

Remember that a myth can have a dark side as well as a bright one. Persephone is a spring goddess and also a queen of the underworld. Achilles is a hero and also a man undone by pride. Some parents love this depth. Others prefer names linked to lighter stories. Either way, understanding Greek mythology baby names meanings before you decide protects you from surprises later.

Spelling also changes across languages. Athena can be Athina, and Helena can be Elena. Pick the version that fits your family’s language and heritage.

Read More: 35 Anglo-Saxon Names With Meanings: Powerful & Timeless Old English Picks

Greek Mythology Baby Names for Girls

Greek mythology girl names are famous for their grace, power and poetry. The myths gave us warrior goddesses, wise queens, gentle nymphs and fearless heroines. The 36 Greek mythology baby names for girls below mix famous favourites with some lesser-heard choices.

Greek Mythology Girl Names and Meanings

1. Athena. Goddess of wisdom, strategy and craft, and protector of Athens. Her name is pre-Greek and its exact meaning is debated, but it is tied to the city itself. Confident and intelligent. Nicknames: Thena, Ena.

2. Artemis. Goddess of the hunt, wilderness and moon. The meaning is uncertain, sometimes linked to “safe” or “unharmed.” Independent and free-spirited. Nicknames: Artie, Mimi. Among Greek mythology girl names, it suits nature lovers.

3. Persephone. Queen of the underworld and goddess of spring. Her name is often read as “bringer of destruction,” a striking contrast to her springtime role. Dramatic and romantic. Nicknames: Percy, Seph.

4. Calliope. Muse of epic poetry. Her name means “beautiful voice.” Musical and cheerful. Nicknames: Callie, Cali. One of the most lyrical Greek mythology names and meanings for girls.

5. Daphne. A nymph who became a laurel tree to escape Apollo. Her name means “laurel.” Soft, vintage and elegant. Nicknames: Daph, Daffy.

6. Penelope. The loyal wife of Odysseus who waited twenty years for him. Often said to mean “weaver,” though some link it to a type of duck. Warm and classic. Nicknames: Penny, Nelly, Pip.

7. Ariadne. She helped Theseus escape the labyrinth with a thread. Her name means “most holy.” Rare, elegant and clever. Nicknames: Ari, Addie.

8. Selene. Goddess of the moon. Her name simply means “moon.” Calm and graceful. Nicknames: Lena, Sel. A lovely celestial pick among Greek mythology baby names for girls.

9. Iris. Messenger goddess of the rainbow. Her name means “rainbow.” Short, colourful and familiar worldwide. Nicknames: Izzy, Ris.

10. Eos. Goddess of the dawn. Her name means “dawn.” Rare, quick to say and full of hope.

11. Phoebe. A Titaness linked to brightness and prophecy. Her name means “bright” or “radiant.” Cheerful and friendly. Nicknames: Pheebs, Bee.

12. Thea. A Titaness of sight and shining light. Her name means “goddess.” Simple, modern and easy to spell. Works beautifully as a middle name.

13. Cassandra. The Trojan princess who saw the future but was never believed. Often explained as “shining upon man,” though other readings exist. Strong and tragic. Nicknames: Cassie, Cass.

14. Andromeda. The princess rescued by Perseus, also the name of a galaxy. Her name means “ruler of men” or “mindful of men.” Bold and unusual. Nicknames: Andie, Romy.

15. Zoe. Not a goddess, but a Greek name meaning “life” that fits the world of Greek mythology names and meanings well. Short, modern and cheerful.

16. Helena. Helen of Troy was the most beautiful woman in the Greek world. The name is often linked to “torch” or “shining light.” Classic and romantic. Nicknames: Lena, Nell.

17. Atalanta. The swift huntress who would only marry a man who could beat her in a race. Her name means “equal in weight” or “balanced.” Athletic and independent. Nicknames: Tally, Lana.

18. Psyche. A mortal who became a goddess through love and trials. Her name means “soul” or “breath.” Poetic and thoughtful, and rare as a first name.

19. Hestia. Goddess of the hearth and home. Her name means “hearth.” Warm, calm and family centred. Nicknames: Tia, Hessie.

20. Pandora. The first woman in Greek myth. Her name means “all-gifted,” a generous meaning many people forget. Bold and rarely used. Nicknames: Dora, Pan.

21. Demeter. Goddess of the harvest and mother of Persephone. Her name is usually read as “earth mother” or “grain mother.” Nurturing and strong. Nickname: Demi.

22. Hera. Queen of the gods and goddess of marriage. The meaning is debated, with “protector” and “lady” often suggested. Regal and short.

23. Aphrodite. Goddess of love and beauty. Ancient writers linked her name to “sea foam,” though scholars debate the real origin. Glamorous and bold. Nickname: Dita.

24. Rhea. A Titaness and mother of Zeus. The meaning is debated, with “flow” or “ease” suggested. Short, calm and already familiar in many countries.

25. Hebe. Goddess of youth and cupbearer of the gods. Her name means “youth.” Pronounced HEE-bee, it is rare and sweet.

26. Nike. Goddess of victory. Her name means “victory.” Athletic and powerful, though many people link it to a sportswear brand.

27. Clio. Muse of history. Her name means “glory” or “to make famous.” Short, chic and uncommon.

28. Medea. A sorceress of great skill and a dark story. Her name means “cunning” or “planning.” Striking, though the myth is tragic.

29. Electra. Daughter of Agamemnon, devoted to her family. Her name means “amber” or “bright.” Nicknames: Ellie, Elle.

30. Antigone. The Theban princess who defied a king to bury her brother. The meaning is debated, with “worthy of one’s parents” among the suggestions. Principled and brave.

31. Hecate. Goddess of magic and crossroads. The meaning is debated. Mysterious and powerful. Nickname: Cate.

32. Gaia. The primordial goddess of the earth. Her name means “earth.” Natural, simple and popular in Europe.

33. Themis. A Titaness of justice and divine law. Her name means “law” or “that which is established.” Short and strong.

34. Maia. A mountain nymph and mother of Hermes. Often read as “good mother” or “nurse.” Soft, gentle and linked to the month of May.

35. Circe. The enchantress who turned sailors into animals. Her name means “hawk.” Pronounced SUR-see, it is dramatic and rare.

36. Europa. The princess for whom the continent is named. Her name is often read as “wide-eyed” or “broad face.” Elegant and unusual. Nickname: Eura.

Read More: 110+ Double Barrel Names: Beautiful, Inspiring & Timeless Ideas for Girls, Boys & Unisex

Greek Mythology Baby Names for Boys

Boys’ names from Greek mythology are full of strength, adventure and ambition. Kings, warriors, gods and wandering heroes all left their names behind. Below are 36 male Greek mythology names with meanings, myth connections and nickname ideas. Many Greek mythology baby names for boys feel timeless, while others, such as Atlas and Orion, feel fresh.

Greek Mythology Boy Names and Meanings

1. Apollo. God of music, light, healing and prophecy. The origin of the name is debated. Creative and sunny. Nicknames: Pollo, Lo.

2. Perseus. The hero who defeated Medusa. Often linked to “destroyer,” though this is questioned. Heroic and uncommon. Nickname: Percy.

3. Hector. The noble Trojan prince and defender of Troy. His name means “holding fast” or “steadfast.” Loyal and strong. Nickname: Hec.

4. Achilles. The greatest Greek warrior of the Trojan War. The name is often tied to “pain” or “grief,” though the origin is uncertain. Dramatic and powerful. Nickname: Archie.

5. Atlas. The Titan who held up the sky. His name means “enduring” or “bearer.” Modern and popular. Among Greek mythology baby names meanings for boys, it feels strong and gentle together.

6. Jason. Leader of the Argonauts in search of the Golden Fleece. His name means “healer.” Friendly and familiar. Nicknames: Jay, Jase.

7. Theseus. The king of Athens who slew the Minotaur. Often explained as “to set” or “to establish.” Noble and rare. Nickname: Theo.

8. Hermes. The swift messenger of the gods and guardian of travellers. The name is thought to relate to a “heap of stones.” Clever and playful. Nickname: Herm.

9. Dionysus. God of wine, theatre and celebration. Often read as “god of Nysa.” Bold and unusual. Nicknames: Dion, Dio.

10. Odysseus. The clever hero of the Odyssey. Linked to “wrath” or “one who suffers.” A rare name with huge storytelling power. Nickname: Odie.

11. Leander. The young man who swam the Hellespont each night to see his beloved Hero. His name means “lion man.” Romantic and strong. Nicknames: Lee, Lando.

12. Damon. Famous from the legend of Damon and Pythias, a story of true friendship. Linked to “to tame.” Short and loyal.

13. Evander. A king in early Italian legend, welcomed in Greek-Roman tradition. His name means “good man.” Warm and elegant. Nicknames: Van, Evan.

14. Adonis. A beautiful young man loved by Aphrodite. Thought to come from a word meaning “lord.” Striking, but with high expectations. Nickname: Donny.

15. Icarus. The boy who flew too close to the sun. The meaning is uncertain, sometimes linked to “follower.” Poetic, with a cautionary tale. Nickname: Ike.

16. Hercules. The Roman form of Heracles, the greatest of the Greek heroes. Heracles means “glory of Hera.” Powerful. Nicknames: Herc, Cules.

17. Orpheus. The legendary musician who went to the underworld to save Eurydice. Possibly linked to “darkness of night,” though debated. Artistic and soulful. Nickname: Orrie.

18. Ajax. A mighty warrior at Troy. The meaning is uncertain. Short and punchy. Nickname: Jax. Popular among modern male Greek mythology names.

19. Zeus. King of the gods, ruler of sky and thunder. Linked to an old root meaning “shine” or “sky.” Extremely bold. Nicknames: Zee, Zeke.

20. Nestor. The wise old king who advised the Greeks at Troy. Linked to “homecoming.” Calm and dignified.

21. Ares. God of war. Often read as “bane” or “ruin,” though debated. Short and intense. Nickname: Ari.

22. Poseidon. God of the sea, earthquakes and horses. The meaning is debated, sometimes read as “lord of the earth.” Powerful and rare. Nicknames: Posey, Don.

23. Hades. God of the underworld, whose name means “the unseen.” Dark and unusual, so best for parents who like bold choices.

24. Prometheus. The Titan who gave fire to humans. His name means “forethought.” Brave and inventive. Nicknames: Theo, Pro.

25. Pan. God of shepherds and wild places. The name is linked to “all” in some readings. Playful and short.

26. Agamemnon. King of Mycenae and leader of the Greeks at Troy. Often read as “very steadfast.” Long and imposing. Nickname: Mem.

27. Menelaus. King of Sparta and husband of Helen. Often read as “he who withstands the people.” Rare and noble. Nickname: Lao.

28. Patroclus. The loyal companion of Achilles. His name means “glory of the father.” Devoted and brave. Nicknames: Pat, Patch.

29. Telemachus. Son of Odysseus. His name means “far from battle.” Thoughtful and rare. Nicknames: Tel, Mack.

30. Castor. Twin of Pollux and a skilled horseman. The word means “beaver,” and it is also linked to “to excel.” Nickname: Cass.

31. Pollux. Castor’s twin brother. His Greek form, Polydeuces, is read as “very sweet.” Nicknames: Pol, Lux.

32. Daedalus. The master craftsman who built the labyrinth. His name means “cunningly wrought.” Inventive and rare. Nickname: Eddie.

33. Midas. The king with the golden touch. The meaning is uncertain. Short and rich in feeling.

34. Paris. The Trojan prince who chose Aphrodite. The meaning is uncertain. Familiar and stylish.

35. Priam. The last king of Troy. Often read as “redeemed,” though debated. Dignified and rare.

36. Eros. God of love. His name means “love” or “desire.” Romantic and bold. Nickname: Ro.

Greek Mythology Unisex Names and Gender-Neutral Greek Names

Not every Greek mythology baby name belongs to one gender. Many modern parents want gender-neutral Greek names with meaning, and the myths offer plenty. Some are celestial, some are natural, and some are old names that families now use for any child. If you want unisex Greek mythology names that feel modern but carry real history, start with the table below.

Greek Mythology Unisex Names and Meanings

Gender-Neutral Greek Names with Meaning

These twelve gender-neutral Greek names with meaning work equally well for a boy, a girl or a child you would rather not label.

1. Phoenix. The mythical bird that rises from its own ashes, a symbol of renewal. Bold and hopeful. Nicknames: Nix, Phee.

2. Orion. The giant hunter later placed among the stars. Strong and celestial. Nicknames: Ori, Ryan.

3. Echo. The nymph cursed to repeat only the last words of others. Soft, short and artistic.

4. Alexis. From the Greek for “defender” or “helper.” Already used for both genders worldwide. Nicknames: Alex, Lexi.

5. Nyx. One of the oldest beings in Greek mythology. Short, mysterious and very memorable.

6. Hero. A priestess of Aphrodite and the lover of Leander. Easy to use for any gender.

7. Eris. The goddess who started the events leading to the Trojan War. Short and powerful, though the story is dark.

8. Io. A priestess turned into a cow by Hera. Only two letters with a big story, and very rare.

9. Aether. The god of the bright upper air breathed by the gods. Airy, modern and unusual. Nickname: Ether.

10. Chronos. The personification of time. Strong and thoughtful. Nicknames: Chron, Ronnie.

11. Pegasus. The winged horse born from Medusa. Magical and adventurous. Nickname: Peg, Gus.

12. Ambrose / Ambrosia. From the word for “immortal,” linked to the food of the gods. Ambrose is a classic male form, and Ambrosia is the matching female form. Nickname: Brosie.

Unique & Rare Greek Mythology Baby Names with Meanings

If you want something less common, the myths hold many uncommon Greek mythology names that few parents have used. These unique Greek names with meaning give your child a distinctive identity without being hard to say. Here are 28 uncommon Greek mythology baby names, 14 for girls and 14 for boys.

Unique Girl Names from Greek Goddesses and Heroines

1. Calypso. The sea nymph who kept Odysseus on her island. Her name means “she who conceals.” Musical and mysterious.

2. Callisto. A nymph who became a bear and then a constellation. Her name means “most beautiful.” Rare and graceful.

3. Eurydice. The wife of Orpheus, lost to the underworld. Her name means “wide justice.” Romantic and delicate.

4. Galatea. The statue brought to life in the story of Pygmalion. Her name means “milk-white.” Nicknames: Gal, Tea.

5. Iphigenia. Daughter of Agamemnon, known for her sacrifice. Her name means “strong-born.” Nicknames: Genie, Gigi.

6. Thalia. The muse of comedy. Her name means “blooming” or “flourishing.” Cheerful and easy to wear.

7. Metis. The Titaness of wisdom and counsel and the first wife of Zeus. Her name means “wisdom” or “counsel.” Very rare and clever.

8. Nephele. A cloud nymph made by Zeus. Her name means “cloud.” Dreamy and unusual.

9. Ianthe. A sea nymph and the name of several heroines in myth. Her name means “violet flower.” Floral and soft.

10. Hermione. The daughter of Helen and Menelaus. Often read as “of Hermes” or “earth,” though debated. Intelligent and well known.

11. Alcyone. A woman turned into a kingfisher with her husband. Her name means “kingfisher.” Peaceful and rare.

12. Urania. The muse of astronomy. Her name means “heavenly.” Celestial and elegant.

13. Hemera. The primordial goddess of day. Her name means “day.” Bright and short.

14. Erato. The muse of love poetry. Her name means “lovely” or “desired.” Gentle and romantic.

Unique Boy Names from Greek Gods and Heroes

1. Helios. The sun god who drove his chariot across the sky. His name means “sun.” Bright and easy to say. Nicknames: Eli, Leo.

2. Zephyr. God of the gentle west wind. His name means “west wind.” Airy and creative. Nickname: Zeph.

3. Cadmus. The legendary founder of Thebes. Linked to “he who excels.” Strong and rare. Nickname: Cade.

4. Aeneas. A Trojan hero who survived the fall of his city. His name means “praised.” Dignified and unusual.

5. Morpheus. The god of dreams. His name means “shape” or “form.” Imaginative and distinctive. Nickname: Mo.

6. Aeolus. The keeper of the winds. Linked to “swift” or “changeable.” Lively and rare.

7. Hyperion. The Titan of light. His name means “high one” or “watcher from above.” Grand and unusual. Nickname: Perry.

8. Phaethon. The son of Helios who lost control of the sun chariot. His name means “shining.” Fiery and bold.

9. Boreas. The god of the cold north wind. His name means “north wind.” Crisp and rare.

10. Chiron. The wise centaur who taught many heroes. His name means “hand.” Wise and gentle.

11. Orestes. The son of Agamemnon. His name means “mountain-dweller.” Strong and uncommon.

12. Argus. A hundred-eyed giant, and also the name of Odysseus’s loyal dog. Read as “bright” or “watchful.” Loyal and short.

13. Endymion. A shepherd loved by Selene who slept forever in eternal youth. The meaning is debated, sometimes read as “diver.” Dreamy and poetic.

14. Oceanus. The Titan of the great world-river. His name means “ocean.” Deep and rare. Nickname: Ocean.

How to Choose the Right Greek Mythology Baby Name

With over 110 Greek mythology baby names meanings to explore, narrowing down can feel difficult. These tips help.

Read the full story. Some Greek mythology names and meanings sound beautiful while the story is tragic or violent. Neither is wrong, but know what you are choosing.

Say it with your surname. A long name like Andromeda or Agamemnon works well with a short surname. A short name like Eos or Pan pairs well with a longer one.

Think about nicknames. Persephone becomes Percy, Penelope becomes Penny, and Atalanta becomes Tally. A long name on paper can still be easy in daily life.

Use mythology for a middle name. If a full mythological first name feels too bold, use it in the middle. Thea, Iris and Zoe work very well there.

Match siblings. Apollo and Artemis were twins, so they make a natural brother and sister pair. Castor and Pollux, Perseus and Andromeda, and Orpheus and Eurydice are other famous pairs.

Check pronunciation across languages. Greek mythology baby names are said differently in different countries, so choose the form that suits where your family lives.

Popular Greek Mythology Baby Names by Meaning Theme

Sometimes it helps to choose by theme rather than gender. This table sorts Greek mythology baby names meanings by what they stand for.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most popular Greek mythology baby names?

The most popular Greek mythology baby names for girls include Penelope, Athena, Zoe, Selene and Iris. For boys, Atlas, Jason, Apollo, Hector and Leander are widely used. Phoenix and Orion lead among gender-neutral Greek mythology names.

What is the most powerful name in Greek mythology?

Zeus is the king of the gods, so his name is the most powerful in rank. For girls, Athena and Artemis are strong contenders. For heroes, Hercules, Achilles and Perseus carry the strongest reputations.

Are Greek mythology baby names meanings always positive?

No. Many Greek mythology names and meanings are positive, such as Zoe (“life”), Phoebe (“radiant”) and Hector (“steadfast”). Others have darker links, such as Persephone (“bringer of destruction”), Eris (“strife”) and Achilles (“grief”). Read the meaning and the myth before choosing.

Which Greek mythology names are gender-neutral?

Phoenix, Orion, Echo, Alexis, Nyx, Hero, Eris, Io, Aether, Chronos, Pegasus and Ambrose or Ambrosia all work as gender-neutral Greek names with meaning.

What are some uncommon Greek mythology names with beautiful meanings?

Uncommon Greek mythology names include Calliope (“beautiful voice”), Galatea (“milk-white”), Helios (“sun”), Zephyr (“west wind”), Calypso (k”she who conceals”) and Cadmus (“he who excels”). They are rare, memorable and full of story.

Conclusion:

Greek mythology baby names meanings give you more than a pretty sound. They connect your child to some of the oldest stories ever told. You can choose a goddess for strength, a hero for courage, a nymph for beauty or a celestial name for wonder. With Greek mythology girl names, Greek mythology boy names, unisex choices and uncommon Greek mythology names all in one place, you have a wide range to explore.

Say your favourites aloud, read the myths behind them, and think about the nicknames your child might use. The right choice will feel both meaningful and natural. Whichever of these 110+ Greek mythology baby names meanings you choose, your child will carry a name with history, character and heart.