40 Ancient Greek boy names with modern appeal

Ancient Greek boy names have a way of sounding powerful the moment you say them out loud. This list is for parents who love names pulled straight from history and myth, but still want something that feels modern on a birth announcement or classroom roll call. You’ll see names tied to a god, fearless heroes, and stories that feel larger than life, yet surprisingly wearable today. Each pick blends legend with everyday charm, making these names both meaningful and unique. Scroll on and find the name that feels destined to become your child’s own legend.

Alexis

Alexis feels effortlessly modern while carrying deep ancient Greek roots. It means “defender” or “helper,” giving it a powerful yet kind-hearted meaning. Today, Alexis stands out as strong, meaningful, and adaptable across cultures.

Leander

There’s a romantic strength woven into the name Leander. It comes from Greek myth and means “lion man,” blending bravery with poetic flair. Despite its ancient roots, it feels refined, elegant, and very wearable today.

Giannis

Warm, familiar, and deeply Greek, Giannis is the modern Greek form of John. Its meaning, “God is gracious,” gives it lasting spiritual and emotional weight. Widely used in Greece, the name feels friendly and grounded rather than myth-heavy.

Nikolaos

Nikolaos carries a confident, timeless energy that has lasted for centuries. Meaning “victory of the people,” it has both leadership and strength built right in. This powerful name has been used by saints, scholars, and everyday families across Greek history.

Achilles

Achilles commands attention the moment it’s spoken. While undeniably powerful, it also carries a sense of vulnerability that adds depth. Today, Achilles feels bold, striking, and unapologetically legendary.

Atlas

Atlas comes from Greek mythology, where Atlas was a Titan condemned to hold up the sky. The name is often linked to endurance, strength, and responsibility. Today, Atlas feels bold and adventurous, with a strong, modern sound that still carries serious mythological weight.

Stephanos

Stephanos brings a regal, almost celebratory feel to the list. Its meaning, “crown” or “garland,” symbolizes honor and achievement. This handsome Greek boy’s name has strong ties to early Greek and Christian history, giving it lasting significance.

Andreas

Solid and dependable, Andreas has been a staple Greek boy name for generations. It means “manly” or “brave,” which gives it a straightforward strength. Andreas remains strong, familiar, and confidently timeless.

Theodoros

Theodoros carries a sense of quiet strength and timeless warmth. Meaning “gift of God,” the name has deep roots in ancient Greek language and early Christian history. It has been used for centuries across Greece, yet still feels modern thanks to its clean sound and familiar nickname options like Theo.

Ilias

Strong and timeless, Ilias carries a quietly heroic energy. The name is the Greek form of Elijah, meaning “My God is Yahweh,” giving it a deeply meaningful and spiritual touch. It feels modern and approachable while staying rooted in Greek tradition.

Draco

Draco has an intense, striking presence that sets it apart instantly. Derived from the Greek word for “dragon” or “serpent,” it symbolizes power and mystery. This Greek name for boys appears in ancient Athenian history and mythology alike.

Lysander

Lysander sounds poetic, but its meaning is all about strength. It translates to “liberator,” tying the name to leadership and action. Found in both Greek history and literature, it carries a thoughtful seriousness. Lysander feels elegant, intellectual, and quietly powerful in a modern setting.

Georgios

Georgios is a deeply rooted Greek classic with wide recognition. The name has been used by saints, kings, and everyday people throughout Greek history. Georgios remains traditional, meaningful, and endlessly reliable.

Hector

Hector has a heroic warmth that feels instantly familiar. This popular Greek boy name carries strength without arrogance, which gives it emotional depth. Even today, Hector feels strong, approachable, and timeless.

Dionysus

Dionysus is bold, expressive, and full of personality. As the Greek god of wine, celebration, and creativity, the name symbolizes joy and freedom. It’s dramatic without being impractical, especially for parents who love myth-inspired names.

Thanasis

Thanasis is a modern Greek favorite with ancient origins. This comes from Athanasios, meaning “immortal,” which gives it lasting strength. Thanasis blends tradition, warmth, and modern charm effortlessly.

Hermes

Sleek and clever energy surrounds this legendary name. Despite its ancient origins, this ancient Greek male name sounds sharp and modern. The overall impression is bold, stylish, and intellectually strong.

Argus

Rare and quietly intense, this name comes straight from Greek myth. A watchful giant with many eyes, Argus became a symbol of vigilance and awareness. That sense of mystery still clings to the name today. It feels ancient yet unexpectedly modern, perfect for parents drawn to depth and uniqueness.

Christos

Rooted in faith and tradition, this Greek masculine name carries deep emotional meaning. Derived from the Greek word for “anointed,” it has long held spiritual significance within Greek families. Centuries of use have only strengthened its presence rather than dated it.

Spiridon

Distinctive in sound and rich in heritage, this name stands apart immediately. Closely associated with Saint Spyridon, it reflects the strength of spirit and enduring faith. Spiridon remains rare, meaningful, and quietly compelling.

Zephyr

Zephyr comes from Zephyros, the Greek god of the west wind. The name is associated with gentle breezes, springtime, and renewal. It feels light, artistic, and modern, making it a softer myth-based name that still has depth and character.

Basil

Rooted in royalty and faith, this name comes from Basileios, meaning “kingly.” It has long been associated with leadership and dignity in Greek history. Despite its ancient background, Basil feels clean and current today. It’s a name that’s both powerful and refined.

Iason

Quietly heroic, this name comes from Greek mythology as the leader of the Argonauts. Its meaning is tied to healing, giving it a softer layer beneath the mythic strength. Iason feels literary, thoughtful, and modern in sound. It’s a great choice for parents who love legends without excess drama.

Callias

Elegant and rare, this name carries a refined Greek charm. Historically linked to noble families in ancient Athens, it suggests grace and intelligence. The flowing sound makes it feel artistic rather than heavy. Callias stands out as unique while still rooted in history.

Nestor

Quiet confidence sits at the heart of this name. Often associated with wisdom and steadiness, it feels thoughtful rather than flashy. There’s a maturity to Nestor that gives it lasting appeal without feeling old-fashioned. In a modern setting, it comes across as calm, grounded, and timeless.

Ajax

Strong, bold, and instantly recognizable, Ajax has a heroic energy that stands out. This four-letter name feels punchy and modern while still carrying legendary roots. Ajax works perfectly for parents who want a name that’s simple, memorable, and full of historical strength.

Apollo

Apollo is one of the most important gods in Greek mythology, associated with the sun, music, poetry, healing, and prophecy. The name carries a bright, confident energy that feels timeless rather than heavy. Apollo sounds powerful, creative, and surprisingly wearable in modern settings.

Leon

Simple, strong, and instantly recognizable, this name means “lion.” It has been used throughout Greek history as a symbol of courage and strength. Leon feels timeless rather than trendy. This animal-inspired name works just as well in ancient texts as it does today.

Castor

This name carries a strong and confident energy that makes it instantly memorable. Its sound is bold and crisp, giving it a presence that stands out in any setting. Castor manages to feel unique and stylish while remaining surprisingly easy to wear.

Damon

This name exudes quiet strength and understated confidence. With a smooth, modern sound, it feels approachable yet sophisticated. Damon balances emotional depth with everyday charm, fitting seamlessly in both casual and formal settings.

Homer

Literary and legendary, this poetic name is inseparable from Greek history. Associated with the epic poet behind The Iliad and The Odyssey, it carries intellectual weight. Despite that, Homer feels friendly and familiar. The name bridges ancient storytelling and modern charm.

Angelos

Light and uplifting, this name comes from the Greek word for “messenger.” It carries spiritual meaning without feeling overly formal. Angelos has been widely used in Greek families for generations. Today, it feels warm, positive, and timeless.

Pavlos

Grounded and approachable, Pavlos carries a timeless Greek charm. It’s the Greek form of Paul, meaning “small” or “humble,” giving it a quietly meaningful touch. Pavlos balances tradition and simplicity, giving parents a classic choice that’s both strong and effortlessly wearable.

Orion

Bold and celestial, this name has a striking, adventurous energy. Its sound commands attention while remaining sleek and modern. Orion carries a sense of strength and freedom that feels larger than life. This celestial name feels powerful, memorable, and perfectly suited for a little one ready to shine.

Zenon

Philosophical and sharp, this name is tied to ancient Greek thinkers. Zenon was the name of an influential philosopher known for logic and reason. The crisp sound makes it feel contemporary. Zenon appeals to parents who value intellect and originality.

Philemon

Gentle strength defines this ancient, romantic name. Meaning “loving” or “affectionate,” it carries warmth and humanity. Though rare today, it feels thoughtful rather than outdated. Philemon suits a quiet, meaningful naming style.

Aristotle

Few names carry as much intellectual prestige as this one. Associated with one of history’s greatest philosophers, it symbolizes wisdom and inquiry. While undeniably ancient, it still feels bold and distinctive. Aristotle makes a statement without apology.

Kimon

Short, strong, and historically grounded, this name belonged to an important Athenian statesman. Leadership and strategy are tied to its legacy. Kimon feels clean and modern in sound. It’s a subtle nod to history without excess formality.

Petros

Meaning “stone” or “rock,” this P-name exudes strength and reliability. Its straightforward sound is easy to say and sticks in the memory. Timeless in style, Petros fits seamlessly in both casual and formal settings. Parents will appreciate how classic, meaningful, and effortlessly wearable it feels today.

Ares

Known for its bold energy, Ares makes a striking impression. It carries a sense of courage and strength while remaining sharp and memorable. The name radiates power, confidence, and a fearless spirit—perfect for a little boy destined to stand out.

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