The Greek civilization is among the most ancient and most progressive of civilizations in the entire world. It’s a civilization that is so rich in culture and beauty and complexity and one that Greeks today are rightfully proud of. It is no wonder that the Greek civilization is among the most revered and beloved as well.
Thus, Greek surnames are very interesting and intriguing because of the Greek traditions and ancestry that infuse them. Greek surnames showcase and embody the incredible legacy of this important and impressive civilization.
What makes it even more fascinating is that it is said that Greeks actually did not use surnames all that much up until, they say, the twelfth century. Right until the end of that century, surnames were very rare in ancient Greece, and it was mostly the very upper class of families that used last names as a representation of their family crest and also to complement their given names. By the 15th century, Greek surnames had started appearing quite often, with various etymology and roots. Greek surnames often indicate one’s origins in some way.
The Root of Greek Surnames
Creating Greek surnames is said to have stemmed from these five categories:
- Patronymic (from the name of the father) — This is the most common category, as many last names were created by the addition of “son of” at the end of the first name of the father.
- Physical attributes – It is likewise a common practice to have surnames reflect a physical or personal characteristic of the name’s original bearer.
- Occupational – Similar to many other cultures, many Greek surnames indicate title or occupation.
- Foreign terms – There are also surnames that have been derived from words or terms in other languages that used to have connections or ties to the Greeks.
- Localities – These surnames reflected when a male moved to another location, and his last name was made based on his original place of origin.
Many layers have been woven into the origins of Greek surnames, reflecting and proudly embracing the richness of their culture and history. This is the very reason why Greek surnames are among the most strikingly lovely and impactful of all.
Greek Surnames For Your Boys And Girls
We’ve got a list of 83 Greek surnames that are breathtaking and poignant and would make for great inspirations when naming your little one.
- ADAMOS
Adamos is a Greek surname that has the meaning of “the son of Adam”. This last name is said to have come from a first name and would go really well paired together with another chosen first name as well.
- AEOTOS
Aetós is a Greek surname that has a magnificent meaning. This last name carries with it the meaning of “eagle” in Greek and brings to mind one that is destined to soar high as they grow up.
- AGATHANGELOU
Among the Greek surnames, one that is on the longer side would be the name Agathangelou. This last name is a patronymic moniker said to be bestowed upon those who most likely were descendants of a historical figure that was named Agathangelos.
- ALEXOPOULOS
Alexopoulos is a Greek last name that stems from the personal moniker that is “Alexios”, combined with the patronymic ending that is “Poulos”.
- ANDINO
Of all the Greek surnames, one that has a masculine and manly vibe to it would be Andino. Andino literally has the meaning of “manly”, and it may have originated from a person who exhibited many masculine traits.
- ANDRIANAKIS
The Greek surname that is Andrianakis is commonly found within Australian Greek communities. It is said to have come from the personal name “Andreas” and paired with the “-akis” suffix.
- ANGELOPOULOS
Angelopoulos is a Greek surname that is said to have been derived from the personal name “Angelos”, which is a shortened form of the name “Evangelos”, and then paid with the patronymic ending that is “poulos”.
- ANGELOS
Among all the Greek surnames, one that is both angelic and at the same time, effortlessly cool is Angelos. Angelos is a very popular and commonly used Greek surname, and it holds the meaning of “Angel” in Greek.
- ARGYROS
Argyros is a Greek surname that is said to be patronymic. This last name was derived from the personal name that is “Argyrios”. Fun fact: “Argyros” is also a Greek adjective that has the meaning of “silvery”.
- ARITI
If you are on the hunt for Greek surnames that have a friendly, approachable vibe about them, check out the surname Ariti. In Greek, Ariti is said to mean a person who is “friendly”, “generous”, and “approachable”.
- ARTINO
Artino is a Greek surname that is habitational, and they say that it was given to those who hail from the city known as Arta.
- ATHANASIOU
If you are looking for Greek surnames that bring with them a powerful vibe, take a look at Athanasiou. This last name was derived from the first name “Athanasios”, which has the meaning of “immortal”. Pretty cool, huh?
- BAKIRTZIS
Bakirtzis is a Greek surname that is said to have come from a Turkish term that carries with it the meaning of “coppersmith”.
- BOURAS
Bouras is a Greek surname that is derived from the Greek word “Booras”, which is Latin in origin. This is said to mean “a woolen cloth, reddish-brown and coarse with long hair”. This surname was given to those whose work was in the wool trade.
- CALIMERIS
Of all the Greek surnames, one that is perfect for parents who are very much morning people would be Calimeris. This last name stemmed from the greeting known as “Kalimera”, which when translated to English, has the meaning of “Good morning”.
- CASTELLANOS
Are you dreaming of castles and kingdoms and lands far, far away? The Greek surname Castellanos is a great choice for that touch of royalty. It comes from the word “kastello,” and it means “castle”.
- CHLOROS
Chloros is among the more commonly used Greek surnames. This word is said to mean “green” in Greek. Chloros is symbolic of a country’s very essence.
- CHRISTODOULOPOULOS
Christodoulopoulos is among the lengthy Greek surnames. This would be a strong choice for parents and families with deep religious influences. This surname has the meaning of “descendants of the servants of Christ”.
- CHRISTOFOROU
Christoforou is a Greek surname that is a variation of the personal name “Christophoros”, which carries the meaning of “one who is bearing Christ”. It is another good pick for families and parents who are strong in faith.
- CHRONIS
For parents who are very fascinated with the essence of time, an excellent choice of Greek surname would be Chronos. This undeniably cool and impactful last name holds the meaning of “year” or “time”.
- CIRILLO
Cirillo is a Greek surname that stemmed from the land of Italy. It is a powerful last name that carries the meaning of “masterful” or “lord”.
- DANIELOPOULOS
Danielopoulos is a Greek surname that speaks for itself, carrying the Manning of “son of Daniel”. The name “Daniel” has the meaning of “God is my judge”.
- DIAKOS
Diakos is an occupational Greek surname that translates to the word “deacon” in Greek. A deacon is a part of the clergy, and Diakos was a name signifying those who served as members of the clergy.
- DIAMANDIS
A wonderful choice for your little one who shines bright like a diamond is Diamandis. This Greek surname has the meaning of “diamonds” in Greek and is said to have referred to those who deal with diamonds.
- DOUKAS
A Greek surname that is stately and with a royal air would be Doukas. This is a Medieval Greek last name that was given to those who were in the imperial rank. Doukas comes from “doukas” which is a Greek word for “lord” or “Duke”.
- DRAKOS
Of all the Greek surnames, one that definitely leaves an impression with its undeniable cool factor and cool meaning as well is Drakos. Drakos comes from “drakon”, a Greek word that holds the meaning of “dragon” or “ogre”.
- DRIVAS
Another cool-sounding Greek surname is Drivas. Drivas is said to be a Greek variation of “drivo” which is a Slavic word that has the meaning of “tree”.
- ELIAS
Among Greek surnames, one that easily crosses over to the first name is the impactful Elias. Elias was derived from “Eliyahu”, and it holds the meaning of “Lord of God” or “Jehovah of God”.
- FILO
Among the shorter Greek surnames is Filo, which is a sweet and short last name that is actually the Greek variation of the first name “Filip” which was derived from the English name “Phillip”, meaning “friend of the horses” or “the horse’s friend”.
- FOTOS
For our bundle of joy, who is the light of your life, a wonderful pick would be Fotos. This Greek surname stemmed from “phos”, a Greek word that means “light”. Fotos is also said to be a shortened variation of “Fotopoulos”, which is a patronymic name.
- GALANIS
Are you blessed with a blue-eyed baby? The Greek surname Galanis was said to have been given to those with “pale blue eyes”. It originated from the Greek word “galanos” which means “azure” or “pale blue”.
- GALATAS
A great choice for your adorable little milk monster would be the Greek surname Galatas. This carries the meaning of “milk” and was said to have been an occupational last name for those who sell milk.
- GATAKI
For Greek surnames that have a certain sweetness and adorableness to them, check out Gataki. Gataki is a very simple and very sweet last name that carries with it the cute meaning of “kitten”.
- GANAS
Ganas is a Greek surname that is occupational. This last name, which leans toward the shorter side, was given to those who were employed as coppersmiths.
- HASAPIS
A Greek surname with a formidable vibe to it is Hasapis. Hasapis is said to have been derived from “chasapi”, a Greek word that translates to “butcher”. This was an occupational surname for those who were in this profession.
- HATZI
Having a baby is the culmination of your beautiful journey to parenthood. Hatzi is a Greek surname that holds the meaning of “a person who has completed a pilgrimage” or “pilgrim to Jerusalem”.
- IRAKLIDIS
Of all Greek surnames, one that is undeniably powerful and full of impact is Iraklidis, which is said to refer to “the son of Herakles”. “Herakles” is also more universally known as “Hercules”, and has the meaning of “glory/pride of the Goddess Hera”.
- KALLISTOS
In every parent’s eyes and heart, their little one is their pride and joy, the very best gift they can ever receive. Kallistos is a Greek surname that holds the meaning of “best”, making it a strong choice.
- KATOPODIS
It is said that in Greek, the word Katopodis carries with it the meaning of “below” or “down”. This Greek surname carries the interesting meaning of “the guy who ran away”.
- KATSAROS
For your curly-haired moppet, the Greek surname Katsaros has the meaning of “curly”; This surname is said to be handed over to those who are of curly hair in Greek.
- KOKKINOS
If you are a lover of the color red and are looking for Greek surnames that best represent this, a great one is Kokkinos. This Greek last name carries with it the meaning of “the color red” and embodies this passionate, fiery hue.
- KOURIS
For nature lovers out there, the Greek surname Kouris is a perfect one. This last name has the meaning of: someone who lived in a forest”.
- KYRIAKU
If you are searching for Greek surnames that will perfectly embody faith, a great one is Kyriaku. This Greek surname holds the beautiful meaning of “of the Lord”.
- LAMBROS
Your lovely little one definitely exudes radiance and brilliance. The Greek surname Lambros comes from “lampros”, which is classical Greek has the meaning of “luminous”, “brilliant”, and “radiant”. Lambros was coined in commemoration of Easter, also known as “Lanbri” which means “the bright day”.
- LASKARIS
Among Greek surnames, one that is full of valor and courage is Laskaris. In Greek, this has the meaning of “a kind of soldier”, and Laskaris as a surname is in tribute of the Greeks’ rich history of battles.
- LEOS
For bravery and strength of character like the magnificent lion, the Greek surname Leos is absolutely fitting. This surname is said to have originated from the first name “Leos” which has the meaning of “lion”.
- LEVENTIS
Leventis is a Greek surname that is Italian in origin and was derived from the word “Levantine” meaning “people from the East” and referring to pirates of an armed sailor from back in the Middle Ages. This surname has a very positive connotation and holds the meaning of “gallantry” and “fearless”.
- LYKAIOS
The wolf is among the most cunning, stunning, and enigmatic creatures. Lykaios is a Greek surname that is said to have been derived from “lykos”, a Greek word that has the meaning of “wolf”.
- MARKOPOULOS
Of all Greek surnames, one that has a huge impact and a stately, godly strength is Markopoulos. Markoulos is a Greek surname that means “son of Mark”. “Mark” is an ancient name that holds the meaning of “consecrated to the god Mars” as well as “god of war”.
- MATSOUKA
Are you fascinated by the intriguing creatures known as bats? The Greek surname Matsouka is said to carry with it the simple yet definitely interesting meaning of “bat”.
- MATTHIOU
When looking at Greek surnames, a definite standout for your biggest blessing is Matthiou. This surname is in reference to the “son of Matthias”. “Matthias” is a name that holds the wonderful meaning of “gift of God”, which your little one certainly is.
- MIKOS
A Greek surname that is on the shorter side and makes an impact is Mikos. Mikos is said to be the Greek equivalent of the name “Nicholas”, and is likewise considered to be a variation or short form of the name “Demetrios”.
- NEPHUS
The Greek surname Nephus is a very religious one with deep meaning it. This last name carries the poignant meaning of “a God’s son who will also become a God”.
- NIKOLAOU
If you are looking for Greek surnames that are of a victorious nature, check out Nikolaou. Nikolaou is said to mean the “son of Nikolaos”. “Nikolaos” is a name that in Greek means “victory of people”.
- NOMIKOS
Are you dreaming of a successful legal career for your baby? The Greek surname Nomikos has the distinct meaning of “legal” or “relating to the law”.
- ONASIS
Are you wondering about Greek surnames that have a romantic, passionate vibe about it? Take a look at Onasis. This Greek surname is quite rare and holds the memorable and impactful meaning of “lover”.
- OTHONOS
Do you wish for a bountiful, fruitful life for your little one? Othonos is a Greek surname that is said to have been derived from “Otto”, which has the meaning of “wealth” or “fortune”.
- PALLAS
An ethereal, majestic air surrounds the Greek surname Pallas, which they say is another name for “Athena”. “Athena” is the name of the Goddess of Wisdom and Arts. Interestingly, Pallas is said to likewise be a nickname for “Palac” which has the meaning of “thumb”.
- PANAGOS
Among all Greek surnames, one that is said to be very symbolic of the way of life of the Greeks is Panagos, which carries the deep and significant meaning of “all holy”.
- PANTAZIS
A Greek surname that is full of life and has a vibrant energy about it is Pantazis. This Greek surname has the meaning of “full of life” or “always alive” or “live forever”.
- PAPAMICHAEL
Papamichael is a Greek surname that piques the interest and is quite intriguing. This Greek last name holds the meaning of “son of a priest named Michael”.
- PAPATONIS
Of all Greek surnames, one that most definitely makes a mark is Papatonis. This Greek surname holds the very awesome meaning of “a very badass man”.
- PETRAKIS
Quite a few Greek surnames are lovely Greek variations of more common and beloved names. One such Greek surname is Petrakis, which is said to have stemmed from “Petros”, a Greek variation of the name “Peter”.
- ROSI
We all wish for our little one to grow and bloom and blossom beautifully. Rosi is a Greek surname that stemmed from “Rosa”, a word which has the meaning of “the flower rose”.
- SAGONA
Sagona is a classic Greek name that was given to those with a protruding, prominent jaw. The word “sagona” itself has the meaning of “jaw”. The classic Greek spelling of Sagona is “Siagon”.
- SAMARAS
For those who are lovers of horses, check out the Greek surname Samaras. This last name is said to carry with it the meaning of “saddle maker” or “saddler”.
- SARRIS
If your family is fair-haired, you might be interested in the Greek surname Sarris. Sarris is a Greek last name that is Turkish in origin, and it has the meaning of “fair-haired” or “blonde”.
- SAVAS
A Greek surname that leans toward the shorter side and sounds cool and smooth, and has a lovely meaning, is Savas. This surname stemmed from “Sabbas”, the Greek version of what we know as the holy “Sabbath”.
- SCALA
For those who wish for their little ones to climb the ladder to success as they grow up, an interesting Greek surname would be Scala. Scala is said to carry with it the meaning of “steps” or “ladder” or “stairway”.
- SELINOFOTO
Among the Greek surnames, one that is very enchanting and with a simple, mesmerizing meaning to it is Selinofoto. This Greek surname holds the meaning of “moonlight”, and it is said to probably have stemmed from those who lived by the sea and loved the moonlight.
- SIDERIS
If you are wondering about Greek surnames that are poignant and strong, and impactful, check out Sideris. Sideris is a Greek surname that stemmed from “sidero”, a Greek word meaning “iron”. It refers to the beautiful, wishful statement that is “may the child grow up to be as strong as iron”. Sideris is said to be a patronymic name that was adopted into a surname.
- SOTIROPOULOS
Sotiropoulos is a Greek surname that is interesting and likewise has an interesting meaning too. It is said to belong to those from Peloponnese, and this surname was derived from Latin. Sotiropoulos carries the meaning of “chick” or “nestling”.
- STEFANOPOULOS
Among the longer Greek surnames, Stefanopoulos is a Greek surname that is said to carry with it the meaning of “son of Stefan”.
- TERESI
A Greek surname that has a goddess vibe to it and brings much strength, power, and femininity all at once is Teresi. This Greek surname is associated with “Artemis”, the Goddess of Hunting. Teresi is also a metronymic for the feminine first name “Teresa”.
- THANOS
Of all of the Greek surnames, one that definitely catches attention and makes quite the lasting impression is Thanos. The powerful, impactful Greek surname Thanos is the short variation of “Athanasios”, which is a Greek name meaning “immortal”.
- THEODOROPOULOS
Of the longer Greek surnames, one that captures the blessing that is your little one is Theodoropoulos. This surname has the meaning of “son of Theodoros”. In Greek, “Theodoros” bears the wonderful meaning of “gift of God” or “God-given”.
- TSITAK
A Greek surname that is the definition of short and powerful is Tsitak. Tsitak is a Greek surname that carries with it the meaning of “God”.
- VITALIS
Vitalis is a Greek surname that is bursting with life and vitality. Vitalis in Greek means the same as it would in English, which is “vital” or “alive”.
- XENAKIS
If you are thinking about Greek surnames that are enigmatic and mysterious, take a look at Xenakis. Xenakis is a Greek surname derived from “Xenos”, which is said to mean “newcomer” or “stranger”.
- XIPHIAS
Xiphias is a Greek surname that is most striking and has a meaning that sparks interest. This Greek surname is pronounced “Zi-fias,” and it has the meaning of “swordfish”.
- ZAFEIRIOU
Your bundle of joy is certainly a gem. Zafeiriou is a Greek surname that stemmed from “Zafeiri”, which is the Greek name for the gemstone known as a sapphire. Zafeiriou is a patronymic name that has the meaning of “son of Zaferiris”.
- ZERVAS
For all the lefties out there, a Greek last name that will pique your interest is Zervas. Zervas is a Greek last name that is said to have come from a nickname that has the meaning of “left-handed”.
- ZIKA
Of all the Greek surnames, one that is short and wonderfully poignant is Zika. The Greek surname Zika stemmed from “na zissis” which is a beautiful and wishful Greek phrase that carries the meaning of “to live” or “may he live”.
Surnames or last names weave together past and present, and Greece surnames are a beautiful embodiment of the country’s elaborate culture, history, and heritage.