Divine Inspiration: Baby Names from Greek Mythology (Gods & Goddesses)

In the enchanting realm of Greek mythology, parents can discover a treasure trove of powerful, meaningful baby names that have echoed through centuries. Naming your precious newborn after legendary figures from Mount Olympus or heroic mortals bestows not only a beautiful name but also connects your child to timeless stories of bravery, wisdom, and divine power. Greek mythology offers names that range from the well-known like Apollo, god of music and light, to more unique choices like Thalia, the muse of comedy. Whether you're drawn to the strength of Athena, goddess of wisdom, the beauty of Adonis, or the adventurous spirit of Perseus, these mythological names carry rich histories and powerful symbolism that can inspire your child throughout their life journey.

Greek mythology offers a magnificent array of baby name inspirations drawn from powerful deities, heroic figures, and enchanting characters of ancient lore. From the wisdom of Athena to the strength of Zeus, these timeless names carry rich histories and powerful meanings. Consider Apollo for his artistic brilliance, Artemis for her independence, or perhaps Perseus for his heroic journey. Lesser-known but equally beautiful options include Thalia (meaning "to flourish"), Clio (the muse of history), or Orion (the mighty hunter). Whether you seek strength, beauty, wisdom, or creativity, the pantheon of Greek mythology provides a wealth of distinctive names that can bestow both character and legacy upon your extraordinary new arrival.

Greek mythology baby boy names

Apollo: God of Music and Light

Apollo is the magnificent Greek and Roman deity who presided over sun, light, music, poetry, healing, and prophecy. Often depicted as the epitome of masculine beauty in classical art—a youthful figure adorned with only a laurel wreath—Apollo embodies both artistic excellence and formidable strength. His mythology is rich with impressive feats, including slaying the mighty Python serpent when he was merely four days old and his complex relationship with the prophetess Cassandra. As a baby name, Apollo carries connotations of brilliance, creativity, and power. Though historically uncommon in modern naming practices, it has gained remarkable popularity since entering the top thousand names in 2013, appealing to parents seeking a name with both classical gravitas and contemporary appeal.

Arun: The Divine Charioteer

Arun, a magnificent name with celestial origins, derives from ancient mythology where it means "sun" or the reddish glow of dawn. In Greek interpretations of Indo-European mythology, Arun represents divine light and brilliance. While primarily found in Indian tradition as the charioteer of Surya the sun god, this name has parallels in Greek mythology where Helios, the sun deity, also had a chariot driver. The name Arun carries connotations of brightness, leadership, and guidance—perfect for a radiant baby boy. Its uncommon usage in Western countries makes it a distinctive choice that connects your child to ancient traditions while standing out with its melodic simplicity and powerful significance.

Atlas: The Titan Who Carried the World

Atlas was a primordial Titan god from Greek mythology known for his incredible strength and endurance. After the Titans lost their war against the Olympian gods, Zeus punished Atlas by forcing him to eternally hold the weight of the heavens on his shoulders. This powerful imagery of strength and burden has made Atlas a symbol of endurance throughout history. The name itself derives from the Greek word meaning "to endure" or "to suffer," reflecting the character's legendary persistence. The term "atlas" for collections of maps originated from this mythological figure, as did the name of the Atlantic Ocean (Sea of Atlas). As a baby name, Atlas conveys strength, resilience, and the ability to carry great responsibility – powerful qualities for a young boy.

Eros: God of Love and Desire

Eros is one of the primordial Greek gods, famously known as the god of love, desire, and physical attraction. Son of Aphrodite, he is often depicted as a winged youth with bow and arrow, whose Roman counterpart is Cupid. The name Eros derives from the Greek word eran, meaning "to love" or "to desire passionately." Choosing this powerful and timeless name for your son bestows upon him a connection to the very essence of love itself. Throughout artistic history, Eros has been portrayed as both mischievous and divine, representing the transformative power of love that can bring both joy and complexity to human experience.

Kana: From Ancient Greek Legends

Kana is a fascinating name with roots in ancient mythology, though it's important to note that it's primarily associated with Pacific legends rather than Greek mythology. In Maui tradition, Kana was a demigod who heroically journeyed to the edge of the underworld to retrieve the stolen sun, restoring light to the world. This legendary feat connected him to concepts of procreation, dawn, sun, and sky in Pacific mythology. The name carries powerful connotations across cultures, and in Japanese, Kana translates to "powerful" or "one with strength." While not traditionally Greek in origin, this mythological name offers parents a unique option with rich cultural significance and a powerful meaning that transcends geographical boundaries.

Leander: The Legendary Swimmer

Leander is a captivating name meaning "lion man" in Greek. Though not a god, he's immortalized in one of mythology's most poignant love stories. According to legend, Leander would swim across the Hellespont (now the Dardanelles strait) each night to visit his beloved Hero, a priestess of Aphrodite who lived in a tower. She would light a lamp to guide his way through the dark waters. Tragically, during a violent storm, the lamp was extinguished, and Leander drowned. Upon discovering his body washed ashore, Hero threw herself from her tower to join him in death. This tale of devotion has inspired countless works of art, poetry, and literature throughout history. While historically uncommon, the name Leander has gained popularity across southern Europe and the United States in recent years, offering parents a meaningful choice with romantic undertones and symbolic strength.

Oden: Power and Wisdom Personified

Though Oden (and its common variation Odin) actually originates from Norse rather than Greek mythology, many parents drawn to mythological names consider it alongside Greek options. In Norse tradition, Oden was the supreme deity known for wisdom, poetry, war, and magic. The name derives from Old Norse Óðinn, meaning "inspiration," "rage," or "frenzy." This powerful name has gained popularity in contemporary culture, with celebrities like Backstreet Boy Nick Carter choosing it for his son. Beyond its mythological significance, Oden conveys strength and intellectual prowess, making it an attractive choice for parents seeking a name with distinctive character and historical depth.

Osiris: Lord of the Afterlife

Osiris is a powerful name meaning "mighty eye" in translations from Egyptian hieroglyphics. In Egyptian mythology, Osiris ruled as the god of fertility, agriculture, and the afterlife. As the judge of the underworld and master of resurrection, he embodied the cycle of death and rebirth. His marriage to the goddess Isis forms one of mythology's most enduring partnerships. Though technically Egyptian rather than Greek in origin, Osiris has become widely recognized across mythological studies. Notable contemporary namesakes include professional basketball player Osiris Eldridge. The name has also appeared in popular culture through DC Comics characters and as the namesake of a prominent skateboarding footwear company. With its ancient power and regal connotations, Osiris offers a distinctive mythological option for parents seeking a name with depth and history.

Thor: God of Thunder and Strength

Thor is a powerful name derived from Norse mythology where he was the mighty god of thunder, lightning, and storms. The name originates from an ancient Indo-European root word meaning "thunder." According to Norse legends, Thor wielded a magical hammer called Mjölnir and was known for his incredible strength and role as a protector of mankind. While technically from Norse rather than Greek mythology, this commanding name carries similar heroic qualities found in many Greek mythological figures. Thor remains a popular choice for parents seeking a name that embodies strength, courage, and natural power. In Scandinavian countries, variations like Tor or Torr are commonly used alternatives.

Zeus: King of the Gods

Zeus reigns supreme as the most powerful deity in Greek mythology, ruling the sky from his majestic throne on Mount Olympus. As the king of gods and men, he controlled the weather patterns and famously wielded thunderbolts as his signature weapon. This commanding one-syllable name carries an unmistakable strength and authority while maintaining a modern, distinctive sound. Zeus appears prominently throughout classical literature, including Homer's Iliad, and has recently gained popularity among parents seeking a bold, mythological name with contemporary appeal. The name embodies power, leadership, and celestial dominance—qualities that make it an increasingly attractive choice for modern families looking beyond traditional naming conventions.

Greek mythology baby girl names

Artemis: Goddess of the Hunt

Artemis is the powerful Greek goddess of the moon, hunting, wilderness, and protector of young women. Her name possibly derives from the Greek word arktos, meaning "bear." Born to Zeus and Leto, she emerged fully grown and immediately assisted in delivering her twin brother, Apollo. Fiercely independent, Artemis chose eternal maidenhood and surrounded herself with nymphs and wild creatures rather than seeking romantic companionship. As a namesake, Artemis represents strength, independence, and a deep connection to nature. The name has gained modern recognition through works like the Artemis Fowl fantasy series and NASA's Artemis space program, making it both mythologically rich and contemporary.

Athena: Goddess of Wisdom and War

Athena stands as one of the most revered deities in Greek mythology, embodying wisdom, strategic warfare, and artistic crafts. Born in a spectacular fashion from Zeus's forehead, fully armored and ready for battle, she represents intelligence combined with strength. As the patron goddess and protector of Athens, her name carries profound cultural significance. Athena is known for her role in many myths, including her contest with Poseidon for Athens' patronage and transforming the weaver Arachne into a spider after a competitive weaving challenge. Often depicted with an owl (symbolizing wisdom) and an olive tree (representing peace and prosperity), Athena makes a powerful yet elegant name choice for a baby girl who might grow to value both intellectual pursuits and courageous determination.

Circe: The Enchanting Sorceress

Circe (pronounced sir-see) was a powerful enchantress in Greek mythology, daughter of Helios, the god of the sun, and the ocean nymph Perse. As a divine sorceress, she was renowned for her extensive knowledge of potions and herbs, which she often used to transform her enemies into animals. Her most famous appearance comes in Homer's epic The Odyssey, where she turns Odysseus's men into swine before later becoming his lover and ally. Circe dwelled on the mysterious island of Aeaea, surrounded by tamed wild beasts who were once humans. In recent years, her complex character has been beautifully reimagined in Madeline Miller's bestselling novel Circe, bringing renewed interest to this fascinating figure whose name combines strength and mystical allure, perfect for a baby girl with a powerful destiny.

Freya: Goddess of Love and Beauty

Freya originates from Norse rather than Greek mythology, where she was the goddess of love, beauty, fertility, and war. This enchanting name has gained tremendous popularity in recent years, particularly in the UK where it consistently ranks in the top names for baby girls. In the United States, Freya continues its steady climb through the rankings, appealing to parents who desire a name with mythological significance and a melodious sound. The name carries connotations of strength and femininity, making it perfect for parents looking to bestow their daughter with qualities of both grace and power. Alternative spellings include Freyja, Freja, and Freia, offering flexibility while maintaining the name's distinctive Nordic charm.

Gaia: Primordial Earth Mother

Gaia (pronounced guy-uh) represents one of the most primordial and powerful female deities in Greek mythology. The name means "earth" in ancient Greek, as Gaia was the personification of Earth itself—the ancestral mother of all life from whom all other gods descended. In mythology, she emerged from Chaos and gave birth to the sky (Uranus), mountains, and sea without male assistance. Popular in Mediterranean countries like Italy, Greece, and Slovenia, this name carries deep ecological significance in modern culture. Though sometimes associated with environmental movements and wellness products in Western countries, Gaia offers a beautiful option for parents seeking a name with both historical depth and contemporary relevance. Its simple pronunciation and powerful meaning make it an increasingly appealing choice for families drawn to mythological names with natural connections.

Hera: Queen of the Gods

Hera was the revered queen of the gods in Greek mythology, known as the supreme feminine divine figure. Her name carries the beautiful meaning of "protector" or "of the season" in ancient Greek. Often depicted as majestically beautiful and accompanied by her symbolic peacock, Hera ruled over marriage, family, women, and childbirth. As the wife of Zeus, she held tremendous power in the pantheon. The name's celestial connection extends to astronomy, where a minor planet, 103 Hera, bears her name. For parents seeking a name with strength, regality, and mythological significance, Hera offers a powerful yet elegant choice with deep historical roots.

Larissa/Larisa: The Nymph of Thessaly

Larissa or Larisa is a beautiful name with deep roots in Greek mythology, where she appears as a nymph and daughter of Pelasgus. In ancient lore, she was associated with the region of Thessaly, and her name eventually became the title of its capital city. This elegant name also belongs to a fourth-century Greek Saint, giving it both mythological and religious significance. The name's celestial connection extends to astronomy, as one of Neptune's moons was named Larisa in honor of the mythological figure. With its flowing, melodious sound, Larissa remains popular in Greece and has gained considerable favor throughout Eastern Europe, making it a sophisticated choice with ancient divine associations for baby girls.

Maia: Mother of Hermes

The name Maia holds significant meaning in both Greek and Roman mythology, translating to "good mother." In Greek mythology, she was the eldest of the seven Pleiades sisters, daughters of the titan Atlas. Most famously, Maia became the mother of Hermes, the swift-footed messenger god, after her union with Zeus. Her celestial connection is preserved as one of the stars in the Pleiades constellation within Taurus. The month of May derives its name from her, and in Roman tradition, she was revered as a goddess associated with spring and fertility. This beautiful name carries both maternal strength and celestial significance, making it a meaningful choice for a baby girl.

Melissa: The Honey Nymph

Melissa derives from the Greek word "meli" meaning "honey" or "bee." In Greek mythology, Melissa was a nymph entrusted with the care of infant Zeus after his mother Rhea hid him from his father Cronus. As Zeus's devoted nurse, Melissa fed the future king of gods with honey, demonstrating her nurturing nature. She was the daughter of King Melisseus, whose name literally translates to "bee-man" or "honey-man." The name Melissa has since become associated with sweetness, industriousness, and the natural world. In ancient Greek culture, bees were considered sacred messengers between worlds, making this name carry mystical significance beyond its melodic sound.

Persephone: Queen of the Underworld

Persephone is the enchanting Greek goddess of spring and renewal, known for her dual role as both the daughter of harvest goddess Demeter and queen of the underworld. According to mythology, she was abducted by Hades, god of the underworld, who fell deeply in love with her beauty. Their arrangement—spending half the year in the underworld and half on Earth—explains the changing seasons: when Persephone returns to her mother, flowers bloom and crops flourish, bringing spring and summer. During her time ruling the underworld alongside Hades, the earth experiences fall and winter. This dramatic story of descent and rebirth has recently gained popularity through cultural representations, including Anais Mitchell's acclaimed Broadway musical Hadestown, where Persephone is portrayed as a vibrant, free-spirited character who captivates audiences. As a baby name, Persephone offers both mythological depth and a melodious sound with its soft consonants and flowing syllables.

Greek mythology unisex baby names

Artio: The Ancient Bear Deity

Artio is a revered Swiss bear goddess from Celtic mythology who symbolizes abundance, fertility, and natural prosperity. Though not strictly from Greek mythology, this divine figure shares characteristics with nature deities across ancient pantheons. The name derives from the Celtic word artos, meaning "bear," and represents strength combined with nurturing qualities. According to Swiss Celtic lore, Artio awakens with the spring season and generously shares nature's bounty with forest creatures, embodying the cycle of renewal. This powerful yet melodic name works beautifully as a gender-neutral option for parents seeking a mythological name with deep symbolic meaning for their child.

Aura: Divine Personification of Breeze

Aura is a captivating name from Greek mythology that embodies the essence of gentle winds and breezes. In ancient Greek tradition, Aura was a minor deity who personified the morning breeze and was known for her remarkable swiftness. The daughter of Titan Lelantos and Periboea, she was a companion of Artemis and famously became a lover of Dionysus, the god of wine and ecstasy. The name literally translates to "breeze" or "soft wind," carrying with it an ethereal quality that evokes movement and grace. Though originally associated with a feminine deity, Aura's airy, melodic sound and natural essence make it a perfect unisex choice for modern parents seeking a name with both mythological depth and gender-neutral appeal. Its short, two-syllable structure provides a powerful yet delicate option that works beautifully in contemporary naming trends.

Bia: Embodiment of Force and Power

Bia was a powerful goddess in Greek mythology who personified force, strength, and raw power. As the daughter of Pallas and Styx, she belonged to a group of siblings who each represented crucial concepts in Greek society. Alongside her sister Nike (victory), and brothers Kratos (strength) and Zelus (zeal), Bia served as one of Zeus's loyal guardians on Mount Olympus after they supported him during the Titanomachy. This striking, concise name carries profound symbolic weight despite its brevity. As a gender-neutral option, Bia offers parents a unique mythological choice that embodies determination and forceful energy, making it perfect for a child destined to display strength of character and unwavering resolve.

Maui: The Legendary Demigod

Maui is a powerful figure in Polynesian mythology, not Greek mythology. This legendary demigod is known for his remarkable feats, including raising the sky with his father to allow trees to grow, the sun to rise, and people to stand upright. Stories tell of Maui's incredible strength and cleverness as he pulled islands from the sea floor using his magical fishhook and even lassoed the sun to slow its journey across the sky, creating longer days for his people. While not from Greek mythology, Maui represents the same heroic qualities found in many mythological traditions, making it a unique and powerful name choice for a child of any gender.

Phoenix: The Immortal Firebird

Phoenix is a powerful unisex name drawn from Greek mythology, referring to the legendary bird that cyclically regenerates itself by bursting into flames and rising anew from its own ashes. This extraordinary creature symbolizes immortality, rebirth, and resilience across many ancient cultures. In Greek tradition, the Phoenix was associated with the sun god Helios and represented the cycle of death and resurrection. The name carries profound symbolic weight, suggesting a child who will overcome challenges and continually renew themselves. Throughout history, the term "phoenix" has evolved to describe exceptional individuals who demonstrate remarkable resilience. As a baby name, Phoenix offers gender neutrality with a perfect balance of strength and mystique, making it an increasingly popular choice for contemporary parents seeking a name with deep mythological roots and powerful meaning.