Many cultures have words or names that symbolize bravery and strength. In Greece, certain names carry the powerful meaning of “hero.” These names often come from ancient mythology and history, where legendary figures displayed great courage and honor. Using these names can be a great way to celebrate qualities like bravery and leadership.
Today, we will look at some Greek names that mean hero, their meanings, and the stories behind them. Whether you are searching for a name for your child or just curious about Greek culture, these heroic names offer a glimpse into a rich tradition of valor and excellence.
Greek Names That Mean Hero
1. Andronikos
The name Andronikos means ‘man of victory’ and signifies someone who is both brave and honorable, reflecting the essence of what it means to be a hero in Greek culture.
2. Aristides
Aristides means ‘the best’ or ‘excellence,’ a name that embodies true heroism and virtue as admired by ancient Greeks.
3. Dexios
Dexios means ‘right-handed’ or ‘skilled,’ often associated with strength and heroism in battle.
4. Gorgias
The name Gorgias means ‘glorious,’ portraying the elevated status of a hero who achieves significant victories.
5. Leonidas
Leonidas, meaning ‘son of a lion’, is directly associated with bravery and courage, famously borne by the Spartan king known for his heroism at the Battle of Thermopylae.
6. Niketas
Niketas means ‘victor’ or ‘conqueror’, representing the spirit of a hero who overcomes great challenges.
7. Themistocles
Themistocles means ‘famed for his wisdom,’ which reflects the intelligence often needed by a hero to navigate difficult situations.
8. Timoleon
Timoleon means ‘honor to the people,’ portraying a hero who serves and protects their community with strength and courage.
9. Iason
Iason, or Jason, means ‘healer’ and symbolizes a hero who brings restoration and resilience in times of trouble.
10. Polydeuces
Polydeuces means ‘much-suffered’ and relates to the journey of a hero who endures trials and tribulations to achieve greatness.
11. Dorian
Dorian means ‘child of the sea,’ symbolizing the bravery needed to face the unknown, reminiscent of heroes in Greek myths.
12. Agapetos
Agapetos means ‘beloved,’ often used to honor heroes who sacrifice for those they love.
13. Leandros
Leandros means ‘lion-man,’ which signifies strength and valor reflecting heroic characteristics.
14. Tychon
Tychon means ‘of luck’ or ‘fortune,’ embodying the idea that a hero often creates their own destiny through bravery.
15. Menander
Menander means ‘to remain steadfast,’ implying that a true hero remains strong in adversity.
16. Orpheus
Orpheus, known as the legendary musician, symbolizes the hero’s journey through adversity for love.
17. Philon
Philon means ‘beloved,’ a reminder that heroes are often cherished by those they protect.
18. Pyrros
Pyrros means ‘flame-colored’ or ‘fiery,’ which relates to the passionate spirit of a hero who fights for justice.
19. Alcides
Alcides is derived from Hercules, known for his legendary strength and heroic feats against overwhelming odds.
20. Kallistratos
Kallistratos means ‘beautiful army,’ a fitting title for a courageous hero leading others into battle.
21. Philopappos
Philopappos means ‘friend of the people,’ showcasing a hero’s noble contributions to society.
22. Darios
Darios means ‘possessor’ or ‘wealthy’, exemplifying a hero’s power and ability to lead.
23. Menelaus
Menelaus, the hero known for his role in the Trojan War, exemplifies loyalty and bravery.
24. Cleomenes
Cleomenes means ‘glorious ruler,’ embodying the strength and leadership qualities of a true hero.
25. Apollonios
Apollonios stems from Apollo, the god of light and truth, reflecting a hero’s divine inspiration.
26. Styx
Styx, named after the river that separates the living from the dead, signifies the hero’s journey through the challenges of life.
27. Cyprian
Cyprian signifies ‘from Cyprus,’ and symbolizes a heroic identity tied to geographical legend.
28. Aeneas
Aeneas was a Trojan hero who played a significant role in escaping the fall of Troy, representing valor and perseverance.
29. Thucydides
This name means ‘glory of the state,’ reflecting a hero’s commitment to their society.
30. Theseus
Theseus, known for his various heroic deeds, represents both physical strength and intelligence in overcoming adversity.
31. Kassandros
Kassandros means ‘shining upon men’ and is often associated with a hero’s illuminating presence.
32. Eudoros
Eudoros means ‘generous gift,’ signifying the selflessness often displayed by heroes for their people.
33. Bion
Bion means ‘life,’ symbolizing the vitality heroes bring to society.
34. Antigone
Antigone, known for her moral strength and dedication to family, embodies the heroic spirit in literature.
35. Aspasios
Aspasios means ‘beloved,’ a name that reflects the affectionate ties heroes have to their communities.
36. Philemon
Philemon means ‘loving,’ representing the compassion that many heroes demonstrate toward their causes.
37. Gaius
Gaius, meaning ‘rejoice,’ signifies the joy that heroes bring through their brave deeds.
38. Asterius
Asterius means ‘starry,’ representing the brightness and inspiration heroes radiate in dark times.
39. Agathos
Agathos means ‘good’ or ‘noble,’ emphasizing the virtues associated with heroism.
40. Hektor
Hektor, a Trojan prince, symbolizes the epitome of bravery in defending his city.
41. Alkeidos
Alkeidos means ‘strength,’ highlighting the core quality of many heroes throughout history.
42. Nikostratos
Nikostratos means ‘victory of the army,’ showcasing the importance of leadership in heroism.
43. Phrygian
Phrygian, related to those who inhabited ancient Phrygia, symbolizes cultural heroism.
44. Adonis
Adonis represents beauty and courage, showcasing the heroic tradition of valiant warriors.
45. Aristeas
Aristeas means ‘the best’ and signifies superior qualities that define a hero.
46. Callicles
Callicles means ‘beautiful voice or call,’ referring to the inspiring words and actions of a hero.
47. Ladislaus
Ladislaus means ‘glory and power,’ reflecting the esteemed qualities associated with heroism.
48. Thalassios
Thalassios means ‘of the sea,’ often linked to naval heroes and their adventures.
49. Menandros
Menandros means ‘to remain steadfast,’ emphasizing the perseverance characteristic of heroes.
50. Procopios
Procopios means ‘progress,’ representing a hero’s journey toward greatness.
51. Anastasios
Anastasios means ‘resurrection,’ symbolizing a hero’s ability to rise against challenges.
52. Pantaleon
Pantaleon means ‘all lions,’ which represents unyielding courage like that found in a true hero.
53. Telesphoros
Telesphoros means ‘to bring fulfillment,’ embodying a leader’s role in achieving collective goals.
54. Philoponus
Philoponus means ‘friend of deeds,’ showcasing a hero’s commitment to action.
55. Agapetos
Agapetos means ‘beloved’, signifying the affection many heroes have for their communities.
56. Demeanor
Demeanor means ‘to contain’, representing the inner strength of a hero.
57. Thespis
Thespis symbolizes the essence of storytelling, a key way heroic deeds are shared.
58. Agapetos
Agapetos means ‘beloved’, emphasizing the emotional connection that inspires heroes to take action.
59. Eirenaios
Eirenaios means ‘peaceful,’ representing a hero’s journey towards harmony through strength.
60. Isidoros
Isidoros means ‘gift of Isis,’ symbolizing wisdom gifted to a hero through trials.
61. Kallimachos
Kallimachos means ‘beautiful fighter’, embodying the duality of strength and elegance found in heroic actions.
62. Leontios
Leontios means ‘lion-like,’ representing bravery in a hero’s character.
63. Neoptolemos
Neoptolemos, known for his fierceness in battle, exemplifies the valor of a hero.
64. Phokas
Phokas means ‘seal’, symbolizing the fluid and adaptable nature of heroism.
65. Theron
Theron means ‘hunter,’ emphasizing the pursuit required of heroes.
66. Dionysios
Dionysios signifies the balance of joy and sorrow in a hero’s journey, named for the god of wine and festivities.
67. Alcmene
Alcmene, mother of Hercules, signifies the strength of characters behind every great hero.
68. Erotes
Erotes means ‘spirits of love,’ showcasing the compassion often seen in heroic acts.
69. Nikandros
Nikandros means ‘victor of men,’ emphasizing masculine heroism in overcoming adversities.
70. Eupatrid
Eupatrid means ‘of noble lineage,’ signifying the esteemed qualities associated with heroes.
71. Menekrates
Menekrates means ‘power of the mind,’ symbolizing the intelligence that aids the strength of a hero.
72. Siphnos
Siphnos, named after an island in Greece, symbolizes heroes connected to geographic lore.
73. Melikertes
Melikertes stands for ‘sweetness,’ which could reflect a hero who brings joy and peace.
74. Phrixos
Phrixos means ‘to make quick,’ indicating a hero’s agility and response in critical situations.
75. Xanthos
Xanthos means ‘yellow,’ often associated with brightness, representing a hero’s illuminating wisdom.
76. Telemachos
Telemachos means ‘far battle,’ indicating a hero’s valor in taking risks for their loved ones.
77. Agapetos
Agapetos means ‘beloved’, suitable for a hero admired by all for their courageous actions.
78. Pindaros
Pindaros reflects the honor associated with being a celebrated hero in Greek history.
79. Orion
Orion is a great hunter in mythology, representing the bravery of a hero in the face of danger.
80. Agathokles
Agathokles means ‘glorious fame,’ emphasizing the reputation often linked with heroic deeds.
81. Eudemos
Eudemos means ‘good reputation,’ a core attribute of any honorable hero.
82. Orestes
Orestes portrays a complex hero whose journey symbolizes suffering and redemption.
83. Philostratos
Philostratos means ‘friend of the army,’ showcasing the solidarity that heroes rally in times of conflict.
84. Skopas
Skopas means ‘to look,’ symbolizing the foresight heroes possess in their quests.
85. Phaedrus
Phaedrus means ‘bright’ or ‘radiant,’ a quality often seen in those who are heroic in nature.
86. Sopater
Sopater means ‘savior of the fatherland,’ ideal for a hero who protects their home.
87. Zenon
Zenon means ‘gift of Zeus,’ symbolizing divine wisdom and strength associated with heroism.
88. Eusebius
Eusebius means ‘well-thinking,’ reflecting the moral decision-making heroes use in challenging situations.
89. Nausicaa
Nausicaa, known for her kindness and bravery while aiding Odysseus, embodies the essence of heroism.
90. Athenaios
Athenaios, associated with Athena, represents the wisdom and courage emblematic of a true hero.
91. Thrasymachus
Thrasymachus means ‘fierce warrior,’ a powerful name reflecting strength and tenacity.
92. Eudaimon
Eudaimon means ‘happy spirit,’ emphasizing the joy heroes often bring through their actions.
93. Dionysius
Dionysius, often linked to revelry, signifies a hero’s connection to joy and liberation.
94. Laertes
Laertes symbolizes the father of Odysseus, representing the hero’s familial bonds and roots.
95. Philadelphus
Philadelphus means ‘brotherly love,’ indicative of the loyalty seen in heroic bonds.
96. Diodoros
Diodoros means ‘gift from God,’ reflecting the bestowed qualities of a hero.
97. Ionas
Ionas means ‘the dove,’ symbolizing peace often sought by heroes after conflict.
98. Paramon
Paramon means ‘to stand beside,’ emphasizing the loyalty and support heroes offer.
99. Timon
Timon means ‘honored,’ which embodies the respect accorded to heroes in Greek culture.
100. Herakles
Herakles signifies ‘glory of Hera’ and is synonymous with heroic strength and adventures in mythology.
101. Kineas
Kineas means ‘from Keos,’ signifying a hero linked to regional identity.
102. Onomakles
Onomakles means ‘glorious name,’ emphasizing the legacy heroes leave behind.
103. Trianon
Trianon signifies ‘to attempt,’ embodying the spirit of a hero willing to take risks.
104. Calyptus
Calyptus refers to ‘hidden,’ symbolizing the depth of a hero’s wisdom not always visible until needed.
105. Harmonia
Harmonia represents the balance heroes seek to achieve peace and unity amidst chaos.
106. Anaxagoras
Anaxagoras means ‘leader of men’, ideal for a name symbolizing heroic leadership.
107. Nestor
Nestor is known for his wisdom and counsel, embodying the intellectual qualities of a hero.
108. Aigle
Aigle means ‘brightness,’ an inspiring attribute of many treasured heroes.
109. Rhadamanthus
Rhadamanthus is a key figure of justice, highlighting the moral duty of heroes.
110. Chryses
Chryses means ‘golden,’ symbolizing the invaluable contributions of a hero.
111. Hecubus
Hecubus, connected to wisdom and strength, signifies the qualities of a heroic character.
112. Euphronios
Euphronios means ‘well-minded,’ focusing on the wise decisions heroes often make.
113. Aetios
Aetios means ‘soaring,’ reflecting a hero’s ability to rise above challenges.
114. Melanthios
Melanthios means ‘dark flower,’ often signifying hidden strength found in heroes.
115. Heracles
Heracles, synonymous with extraordinary strength and heroic labors, stands as a symbol of courage.
116. Amaryllis
Amaryllis means ‘to sparkle’ or ‘to shine,’ representing the light heroes bring into the world.
117. Lykos
Lykos means ‘wolf,’ a powerful animal symbolizing the ferocity of a true hero.
118. Cleon
Cleon means ‘glory,’ underlining the esteemed role heroes play in history.
119. Theros
Theros means ‘to blossom,’ representing the growth and potential seen in heroic individuals.
120. Patroklos
Patroklos, known for his loyalty, depicts the camaraderie often seen in heroic narratives.
121. Harmonious
Harmonious signifies unity, a quality often sought by those in heroic pursuits.
122. Kalypso
Kalypso represents strength and mystery, illustrating the various dimensions of heroism.
123. Cimon
Cimon embodies strength and virtue, qualities indicative of heroic characters through time.
124. Serapion
Serapion means ‘sacred’ and represents the reverence surrounding heroic legends.
125. Zoilos
Zoilos means ‘alive,’ reflecting the vital spirit of heroes who inspire others.
126. Alexios
Alexios means ‘defender,’ significant for heroic figures that fight for justice.
127. Thrasyboulos
Thrasyboulos means ‘bold as a bull,’ illustrating the bravery that quintessential heroes exhibit.
128. Sthenelos
Sthenelos means ‘strength,’ reflecting the robust nature of heroes throughout history.
129. Euripides
Euripides signifies ‘broad wisdom,’ a critical characteristic for any hero.
130. Iphicles
Iphicles stands for ‘powerful,’ a fitting name for any figure of immense strength.
131. Polyxena
Polyxena represents loyalty and sacrifice, showing the emotional depth of a hero’s character.
132. Demosthenes
Demosthenes means ‘strength of the people,’ embodying the collective nature of heroism.
133. Nykteios
Nykteios represents the night, symbolizing that heroism often arises in dark moments.
134. Protesilaos
Protesilaos symbolizes the first hero to leap into battle during the Trojan War, representing courage ahead of overwhelming odds.
135. Phaedrus
Phaedrus means ‘bright or radiant,’ a name highlighting the positive impact a hero exudes.
136. Chariton
Chariton means ‘grace,’ referring to the noble bearing often seen in heroic figures.
137. Damasitas
Damasitas means ‘to conquer,’ emphasizing the overcoming nature of heroes.
138. Laokoon
Laokoon represents the struggles of a hero tasked with immense challenges stemming from fate.
139. Akakios
Akakios means ‘harmless,’ highlighting the noble intentions often found in heroes.
140. Anieros
Anieros means ‘to hold fast,’ stressing the unwavering commitment found in heroic individuals.
141. Lysimachos
Lysimachos means ‘the one who frees,’ representing the hero’s function to save and protect.
142. Kallias
Kallias means ‘beautiful,’ indicating the aesthetic qualities often admired in stories of heroism.
143. Opheltes
Opheltes means ‘to help,’ referring to the benevolent actions often tied to heroic figures.
144. Porphyrius
Porphyrius means ‘royal or purple,’ symbolizing nobility found within heroism.
145. Xenophon
Xenophon, a historian, illustrates the stories of heroes in ancient Greece, showcasing their importance.
146. Amphion
Amphion signifies ‘to build,’ representing the foundational qualities of heroism in creating a better world.
147. Philopolemos
Philopolemos means ‘friend of war,’ representing valor in times of conflict.
148. Philemon
Philemon means ‘affectionate’, representing the deeper emotional ties of heroes to their communities.
149. Eumolpos
Eumolpos means ‘well-sung,’ highlighting the heroic tales often celebrated through music and poetry.
150. Sarpedon
Sarpedon, known from the Iliad, exemplifies the noble sacrifices made by heroes in battle.
Final Thoughts
Greek names that mean hero embrace a rich tapestry of courage and valor tied to both historical and mythological figures. These names often emphasize attributes such as strength, loyalty, and honor, which are cherished in the Greek culture. By considering these names, you not only connect with a profound heritage but also celebrate the qualities of heroism in your life or the lives of your children.
Each name tells a story, illustrating the ideals of bravery and excellence that define what it means to be a hero. These names serve as reminders of the incredible strength and virtuous character present in every heroic individual.
Feel inspired to explore more about names and their meanings? If so, check out our list of names that mean hero and delve into the qualities of names that embody warrior spirit.