Greek Names

Chimera is a noun for a mythical creature composed of parts from different animals, also used metaphorically to denote an illusion or hoped-for thing that is impossible in reality. In science, it describes an organism with cells from two or more zygotes. The term conveys something fantastical or fantastically implausible, often used in literature, biology, and fantasy contexts.

Chiron is a proper noun used most often for a mythic centaur and for the asteroid/spacecraft name; in contemporary contexts it also appears as a surname or given name. In pronunciation, it is typically pronounced with two syllables, stressing the first, and ending with a light /n/ sound in many English varieties. The name carries classical associations and is encountered across literature, astronomy, and video tutorials.

Chrysippus is a proper noun, most often referring to the ancient Greek philosopher. It denotes a specific individual and is used in scholarly, historical, and philosophical contexts. The name is not anglicized for common nouns, so pronunciation guides focus on accurate Classical-era Greek rendering rather than modern equivalents.

Chrysostomos is a proper name of Greek origin, notably used for saints and bishops. It refers historically to individuals named with the epithet “golden-mouthed,” from chrysos “gold” and stoma “mouth.” In context it denotes a title or surname and is pronounced with Greek phonology, often appearing in academic, religious, or historical discussions.

Circe is a mythic enchantress from Greek legend, famed for turning rivals into animals with magical potions. In modern usage, Circe can reference a powerful, seductive woman or an alluring but dangerous figure. The name itself carries a sense of mystery and transformative charm, often invoked in literary or scholarly discussion of Homeric and Roman adaptations.

Cleisthenes is the name of an ancient Athenian lawgiver, famed for reorganizing Athenian democracy. In modern use, it refers specifically to a historical figure and to various institutions named after him. The pronunciation is distinctive, with multiple syllables and a slightly unfamiliar sequence of consonants that may challenge English speakers not accustomed to ancient Greek names.

Clio is a proper noun (and the name of one of the nine Muses in Greek mythology) often used as a brand or title. It denotes inspiration, history, or a muse-associated identity in various contexts. In modern usage, it can refer to organizations, products, or creative works named after the mythic muse, carrying connotations of voice, storytelling, or historical significance.

Clytemnestra is a female proper noun, the wife of Agamemnon in Greek mythology, and a central figure in the story of the Trojan War. The name refers to a mythic queen whose actions drive conflict and tragedy. In classical literature, it is read with ceremonial gravitas and careful pronunciation to reflect its Greek roots.

Cronus is a proper noun from Greek mythology, most famously the leader of the Titans who overthrew his father and was overthrown by Zeus. In modern use, Cronus also appears in astronomy and literature as a mythic figure. The name is typically pronounced with two syllables and a long o, and is often anglicized in scholarly and popular contexts.

Cyclops is a plural noun referring to one-eyed mythical giants who possess a single eye in the center of their forehead. In modern usage, the term can describe any creature or figure with a prominent single eye, or metaphorically, someone who oversees with a singular, focused gaze. The word emphasizes a distinctive, unified eye, often linked to mythic or fantastical imagery.

Daphne is a proper noun used as a given name for females and, less commonly, a mythological figure. In everyday speech it functions as an identifier in conversation, writing, and media. The name is typically pronounced with the first syllable stressed, and it often appears in literature, genealogy, and popular culture.

Delphi is a proper noun, most commonly referring to the ancient Greek sanctuary and oracle site, or to the modern city in Greece. It can also denote a programming language and environment or a character/name in fiction. In usage, it often signals authority, wisdom, or classical heritage, especially when discussing archaeology, history, or software development contexts.

Demeter is the goddess of agriculture in Greek mythology, often invoked as a symbol of grain and harvest. In academic and literary contexts, the term can refer to sources or persons associated with motherly care or fertility. As a proper noun, it’s primarily used for mythological, historical, or literary discussions without altered meaning through context.

Democritus is a classical Greek philosopher known for formulating an early atomistic theory of matter; his work influenced later science and metaphysics. He lived in the 5th century BCE and is often cited as a founder of atomism, proposing that all things are composed of indivisible units called atoms. The term combines his name with a Greek patronymic often used in historical and scholarly contexts.

Demosthenes is the name of the ancient Athenian orator famed for his public speaking. It denotes a person known for rhetorical skill and persuasive oratory, and is often cited as a model of eloquence. In modern use, it can refer to historical works or societies bearing his name, and is recognized as a proper noun with classical associations.

Diogenes is a historical Greek philosopher famed for his ascetic lifestyle and sharp critiques of social norms. The name, used as a noun in reference to him or to the archetype, is pronounced with stress on the third syllable in English. It is commonly encountered in academic and literary contexts.

Dionysus is the Greek god of wine, revelry, and theater. As a proper noun, it denotes the mythic deity and related cultural domains, including festivals and iconography, with Roman parallels often labeled Bacchus. The term is used in scholarly, literary, and educational contexts to discuss ancient religion, mythology, and classical drama.