Traditional Names

Original Greek form of Telemachus.

The name Arsinoe originates from Ancient Greek, meaning 'raising of the mind'. It is derived from the Greek words ἄρσις (arsis), meaning 'raising', and νόος (noos), meaning 'mind, thought'. This name symbolizes intellectual elevation and was notably used by queens of the Ptolemaic dynasty in Egypt.

The name Artemon is derived from the name of the Greek goddess Artemis, who was associated with the hunt, wilderness, and childbirth. The name carries connotations of strength, independence, and natural beauty, reflecting the attributes of the goddess. In historical contexts, Artemon has been associated with notable figures in early Christianity, particularly those who held nontrinitarian views, emphasizing the name's connection to theological and philosophical discourse.

The name Euodia is derived from the Greek εὐοδία (euodia), meaning 'a good journey'. It is a combination of εὖ (eu) meaning 'good' and ὁδός (hodos) meaning 'road, way, journey'. This name is briefly mentioned in Paul's epistle to the Philippians in the New Testament, though some translations suggest it may refer to a man named Euodias.

Greek form of Alexius.

The name Melite is derived from the Greek word μέλι (meli), meaning 'honey' (genitive μέλιτος). It is associated with sweetness and nourishment, reflecting the cultural significance of honey in ancient Greek society. The name is linked to several mythological figures, including a nymph who was the mother of Hyllus by Herakles, symbolizing fertility and divine favor.

The name Adamantios is derived from the Greek word ἀδάμας (adamas), which means 'unconquerable, unbreakable, adamant.' It carries connotations of strength, resilience, and indomitability, reflecting qualities of steadfastness and invincibility.

The name Glaphyra originates from the Greek word γλαφυρός (glaphyros), which means 'polished' or 'subtle'. It conveys a sense of refinement and sophistication, often associated with elegance and grace. Historically, the name has been linked to notable figures, particularly in ancient Anatolia and Mauretania, reflecting its cultural significance and enduring legacy.

Greek form of Zoilus.

Greek form of Asterius.

The name Theano originates from the Greek word θεά (thea), meaning 'goddess'. It is associated with a 6th-century BC Greek philosopher linked to Pythagoras and several figures in Greek mythology, including a priestess of Athena in Troy and a wife of Metapontus.

Greek form of Ambrose.

Arete, derived from the Ancient Greek word ἀρετή (aretḗ), signifies 'virtue' or 'excellence.' In Greek mythology, Arete was personified as the goddess of virtue and excellence, embodying the concept of achieving one's full potential or inherent function. The term is deeply rooted in ancient Greek philosophy, where it represents moral virtue and the highest effectiveness in utilizing one's abilities—strength, bravery, and wit—to achieve real results. Arete is also associated with knowledge, as expressed in the phrases 'virtue is knowledge' and 'arete is knowledge,' highlighting the centrality of knowledge in achieving human excellence.

The name Neon is derived from the Greek word νέος (neos), meaning 'new'. It signifies novelty and freshness, reflecting its discovery as a new element in 1898. Neon is a chemical element with the symbol Ne and atomic number 10, known for its distinctive bright red emission spectrum and its use in various lighting applications.

The name Sophron originates from the Greek word meaning 'self-controlled' or 'sensible'. It embodies qualities of prudence and moderation, reflecting a philosophical ideal of balance and self-discipline.

The name Thaïs possibly means 'bandage' in Greek. It has been associated with notable historical figures, including a companion of Alexander the Great and a 4th-century saint from Alexandria. The name may also have distinct Coptic origins, particularly in the case of the saint. Thaïs has been a popular subject in art and literature, inspiring works such as Anatole France's 1891 novel and Jules Massenet's 1894 opera.

Feminine form of Anastasius. This was the name of a 4th-century Dalmatian saint who was martyred during the persecutions of the Roman emperor Diocletian. Due to her, the name has been common in Eastern Orthodox Christianity (in various spellings). As an English name it has been in use since the Middle Ages. A famous bearer was the youngest daughter of the last Russian tsar Nicholas II, who was rumoured to have escaped the execution of her family in 1918.

Feminine form of Chrysanthos.

Feminine form of Anatolius. This was the name of a 3rd-century Italian saint and martyr. This is also a place name (from the same Greek origin) referring to the large peninsula that makes up the majority of Turkey.

The name Auxentius is derived from the Ancient Greek words 'aúksēsis' (αὔξησις) and 'auksanō' (αὐξάνω), which mean 'increasing, increase, growth'. It signifies a person who is growing or increasing, often used metaphorically to denote spiritual or personal growth. This name was borne by several early saints, emphasizing its historical and religious significance.

The name Callinicus or Kallinikos originates from Ancient Greek, combining κάλλος (kallos) meaning 'beauty' and νίκη (nike) meaning 'victory'. Thus, it translates to 'beautiful victory' or 'beautiful victor'. It is used as a surname or male given name, with the feminine form being Callinice or Callinica.

Feminine form of Antikles. In Greek mythology this is the mother of Odysseus.

The name Xanthos originates from the Greek word ξανθός (xanthos), meaning 'yellow'. This name is associated with several minor figures in Greek mythology, including kings of Pelasgia and Thebes. The color yellow often symbolizes light, vitality, and prosperity in various cultures, which may reflect the significance of the name in historical contexts.

Greek form of Draco.

The name Apollonides originates from ancient Greek, meaning 'son of Apollo'. It is derived from the name of the Greek god Apollo, combined with the patronymic suffix ἴδης (ides), which denotes 'son of'. This name was commonly used in ancient Greece to signify a familial or divine connection to Apollo, the god of music, poetry, art, oracles, archery, plague, medicine, sun, light, and knowledge.

The name Xanthe is derived from the Greek word ξανθός (xanthos), which means 'yellow, blond, or fair-haired.' It is a name with deep roots in Greek mythology, often associated with figures known for their fair hair. In mythology, Xanthe was one of the Oceanids, sea nymphs who were daughters of Oceanus and Tethys. The name also appears in other mythological contexts, such as being the name of an Amazon and sometimes the wife of Asclepius. The name has maintained its connection to its original meaning and continues to be used in modern times, often symbolizing brightness and beauty.

Greek form of Lycus.

Greek form of Timaeus.

Feminine form of Artemisios. This was the name of the 4th-century BC builder of the Mausoleum, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. She built it in memory of her husband, the Carian prince Mausolus.

Ancient Greek form of Irene.

Feminine form of Flaminius.

The name Syrus originates from the Greek word meaning 'a Syrian.' In Greek mythology, Syrus or Syros is associated with the eponymous founder of Assyria. The name also has historical significance as a Roman cognomen, notably used by Publilius Syrus, a 1st-century BC author and former slave from Syria. The name is linked to two saints: a 1st-century bishop of Pavia and a 4th-century bishop of Genoa. In mythology, Syrus is also the name of a son of Sinope and Apollo, and one of the dogs of the hunter Actaeon.

Feminine form of Silvinus.

The name Flaminius is a Roman family name derived from the Latin word 'flamen', which refers to a type of priest. The name carries a priestly connotation, signifying a connection to religious duties and roles within ancient Roman society. The Flaminia gens, to which this name belongs, was a plebeian family in ancient Rome, indicating a non-patrician status but still significant within the Roman social hierarchy.

The name 'Caracalla' originates from the Latin term 'caracalla,' which referred to a type of hooded tunic worn by the Gauls. It was later adopted as the agnomen, or nickname, of the 3rd-century Roman emperor Marcus Aurelius Antoninus, who is more commonly known by this name. The name is historically significant due to its association with the emperor's reign, which included notable events such as the issuance of the Antonine Constitution and the construction of the Baths of Caracalla.

Kaeso is a Roman praenomen, or given name, likely derived from the Latin word 'caesius', meaning 'blue-grey'. This name was used by a limited number of families in ancient Rome, signifying a unique and possibly noble lineage.

Celsus is a Roman family name derived from Latin, meaning 'tall'. It was historically significant as the name of a 2nd-century Greek philosopher who opposed early Christianity, as well as an early Christian saint martyred with Nazarius in Milan.

Feminine form of Gratianus (see Gratian).

Feminine form of Caesonius. This name was borne by Milonia Caesonia, the last wife of the Roman emperor Caligula.

Feminine form of Aurelianus.

Original Latin form of Emil.

The name Aetius is a Roman cognomen likely derived from the Greek word ἀετός (aetos), meaning 'eagle'. It symbolizes strength, vision, and leadership, qualities often associated with the eagle. The name gained prominence through historical figures, particularly in the Roman Empire, and has been used in various contexts, including philosophy, military leadership, and even in the naming of species.

The name Aelius is a Roman family name, possibly derived from the Greek word ἥλιος (helios), meaning 'sun'. It is most famously associated with the Roman emperor Hadrian, whose full name was Publius Aelius Hadrianus. The name carries connotations of light and radiance, reflecting its etymological roots in the Greek word for 'sun'. The Aelia gens, to which this name belongs, was a prominent plebeian family in Rome, with a history spanning nearly eight centuries.

Feminine form of Aurelius.

Feminine form of Florianus (see Florian).

The name Felix originates from a Roman cognomen meaning 'lucky, successful' in Latin. It was used as an agnomen, or nickname, by the 1st-century BC Roman general Sulla. The name also appears in the New Testament, belonging to the governor of Judea who imprisoned Saint Paul. Due to its favorable meaning, Felix became popular among early Christians and was borne by many early saints and four popes. It has been used in England since the Middle Ages, though it has been more popular in continental Europe.

Feminine form of Lucius. Saint Lucia was a 4th-century martyr from Syracuse. She was said to have had her eyes gouged out, and thus she is the patron saint of the blind. She was widely revered in the Middle Ages, and her name has been used throughout Christian Europe (in various spellings). It has been used in the England since the 12th century, usually in the spellings Lucy or Luce.

The name Aurelius is a Roman family name derived from the Latin word 'aureus', meaning 'golden' or 'gilded'. It carries connotations of wealth, brilliance, and nobility. The name is historically significant due to its association with prominent figures such as Marcus Aurelius, a 2nd-century Roman emperor and philosophical writer, as well as several early saints. The name's golden symbolism reflects its enduring legacy in Roman history and culture.

The name Valerius is derived from the Latin word 'valere', meaning 'to be strong'. It was a Roman family name and has been borne by several early saints, signifying strength and resilience. The gens Valeria, a prominent patrician family in ancient Rome, carried this name and were known for their significant contributions to Roman politics and military from the early Republic through the Empire.

Feminine form of Livius. This was the name of the wife of the Roman emperor Augustus, Livia Drusilla.

Feminine form of Cassius.

The name 'Cicero' is a Roman cognomen derived from the Latin word 'cicer', meaning 'chickpea'. It is believed that this name was given to an ancestor who had a chickpea-shaped wart or was involved in the cultivation or trade of chickpeas. The name gained prominence through Marcus Tullius Cicero, a renowned Roman statesman, orator, and author of the 1st century BC, who is often referred to simply as Cicero. His contributions to rhetoric, philosophy, and politics have left a lasting legacy, making the name synonymous with eloquence and intellectual prowess.

The name 'Albus' originates from the Latin word meaning 'white' or 'bright'. It was used as a Roman cognomen, often denoting purity or brilliance. Over time, the name has been associated with various cultural and historical contexts, including its use in the Holy Roman Empire as a coin name and in geomancy as a symbolic figure. In modern times, 'Albus' is also recognized as a surname and has been popularized through fictional characters in literature.

Regulus is a Roman cognomen meaning 'prince, little king', derived as a diminutive of the Latin word 'rex', which means 'king'. This name was used by several 3rd-century BC consuls from the gens Atilia and is also associated with several early saints. Additionally, Regulus is the name of the brightest star in the constellation Leo, symbolizing its royal connotations in both historical and astronomical contexts.

Feminine form of Aemilianus (see Emiliano).

Feminine form of Lucianus.

Silvanus is a Roman cognomen meaning 'of the woods', derived from the Latin word 'silva', which means 'wood' or 'forest'. It was the name of the Roman god of forests. In the New Testament, Silvanus is mentioned as one of Saint Paul's companions, also known as Silas.

The name Marinus originates from the Roman family name Marinus, which is derived either from the name Marius or from the Latin word 'marinus' meaning 'of the sea'. It carries connotations of the sea and maritime life. Saint Marinus, a 4th-century stonemason, is a notable historical figure associated with this name, having built a chapel on Monte Titano, which is now part of San Marino.

Feminine form of Valerius. This was the name of a 2nd-century Roman saint and martyr.

Feminine form of Albus.