Cadmos

Boy Name
Origin:greek
Pronunciation:/ˈkad.mos/

Cadmos: a male name of Greek origin meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek and Phoenician “kékasmai (κέκασμαι) Kádmos (Κάδμος) (qadmon),” meaning “one who excels, from the east, ancient". It derives from the Greek word (kékasmai > Kádmos) (qadmon).

Cadmos is a masculine name that means "This name derives from the Ancient Greek and Phoenician “kékasmai (κέκασμαι) Kádmos (Κάδμος) (qadmon),” meaning “one who excels, from the east, ancient". Its Greek origins reflect deep cultural values and traditions that have been passed down through generations. Parents choosing this name often appreciate its profound significance and timeless appeal.

Quick Facts About Cadmos

Quick facts about Cadmos
OriginGreek, Phoenician
GenderBoy name
PopularityModerately popular

Researched by Name Doctor Linguistics Team

Our names are verified by professional linguists with expertise in etymology and cultural naming traditions.

Last reviewed: November 2025

Meaning

This name derives from the Ancient Greek and Phoenician “kékasmai (κέκασμαι) Kádmos (Κάδμος) (qadmon),” meaning “one who excels, from the east, ancient.” Kadmos was a Phoenician prince, the son of King Agenor and Queen Telephassa of Tyre and the brother of Phoenix, Cilix, and Europa. He was initially sent by his royal parents to seek out and escort his sister Europa back to Tyre after she was abducted from the shores of Phoenicia by Zeus.

Etymology & Details

Name Root

(kékasmai > Kádmos) (qadmon)

How to Pronounce Cadmos

Cadmos is pronounced /ˈkad.mos/(Greek)

Step-by-step pronunciation guide:

  1. Break it into syllables: Cad-mos
  2. Say it like: "CAD-MOS"
  3. Practice saying it naturally a few times

Pronunciation verified by linguistic sources

Usage & Popularity

Cadmos is predominantly used in french speaking communities, where it maintains strong cultural connections and traditional significance.

french
Frequently Asked Questions About Cadmos
What does the name Cadmos mean?
Cadmos means "This name derives from the Ancient Greek and Phoenician “kékasmai (κέκασμαι) Kádmos (Κάδμος) (qadmon),” meaning “one who excels, from the east, ancient.” Kadmos was a Phoenician prince, the son of King Agenor and Queen Telephassa of Tyre and the brother of Phoenix, Cilix, and Europa. He was initially sent by his royal parents to seek out and escort his sister Europa back to Tyre after she was abducted from the shores of Phoenicia by Zeus.". The name comes from (kékasmai > Kádmos) (qadmon). In its original form, the name derives from kékasmai (κέκασμαι) Kádmos (Κάδμος). This greek name has been passed down through generations, carrying its meaning across different cultures and time periods. Parents who choose Cadmos for boys often connect with the name's meaning of "This name derives from the Ancient Greek and Phoenician “kékasmai (κέκασμαι) Kádmos (Κάδμος) (qadmon),” meaning “one who excels, from the east, ancient.” Kadmos was a Phoenician prince, the son of King Agenor and Queen Telephassa of Tyre and the brother of Phoenix, Cilix, and Europa. He was initially sent by his royal parents to seek out and escort his sister Europa back to Tyre after she was abducted from the shores of Phoenicia by Zeus." as a quality they hope to see in their child. While not the most common choice, Cadmos's meaningful roots have given it staying power among parents looking for a name with substance. The name is associated with qualities like GREEK MYTHOLOGY, reflecting its meaning in how people perceive those who carry it.
What is the origin of the name Cadmos?
Cadmos has greek and phoenician origins. The name traces back to (kékasmai > Kádmos) (qadmon). The original form kékasmai (κέκασμαι) Kádmos (Κάδμος) shows the name's roots in its native language. The name remains closely tied to french naming traditions while occasionally appearing in other cultures. The greek meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek and Phoenician “kékasmai (κέκασμαι) Kádmos (Κάδμος) (qadmon),” meaning “one who excels, from the east, ancient.” Kadmos was a Phoenician prince, the son of King Agenor and Queen Telephassa of Tyre and the brother of Phoenix, Cilix, and Europa. He was initially sent by his royal parents to seek out and escort his sister Europa back to Tyre after she was abducted from the shores of Phoenicia by Zeus." reflects values important in the culture where this name first appeared.
Is Cadmos a boy or girl name?
Cadmos is a boy's name. The name has been used for boys across many generations, maintaining its masculine character through different eras and cultures. In greek tradition, Cadmos has historically been given to boys. The meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek and Phoenician “kékasmai (κέκασμαι) Kádmos (Κάδμος) (qadmon),” meaning “one who excels, from the east, ancient.” Kadmos was a Phoenician prince, the son of King Agenor and Queen Telephassa of Tyre and the brother of Phoenix, Cilix, and Europa. He was initially sent by his royal parents to seek out and escort his sister Europa back to Tyre after she was abducted from the shores of Phoenicia by Zeus." carries well for a son, giving the name lasting appeal.
How do you pronounce Cadmos?
Cadmos is pronounced "/ˈkad.mos/". This pronunciation follows el language patterns. As a single-syllable name, Cadmos is quick to say and easy to call out. If you're unfamiliar with greek names, listening to a native speaker say Cadmos can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis. The name's root (kékasmai > Kádmos) (qadmon) influences how Cadmos sounds in its original language.
How popular is the name Cadmos?
Cadmos is somewhat common, familiar to most people. With moderate popularity, Cadmos offers familiarity without being everywhere. It's the kind of name people recognize but don't hear every day. Cadmos's popularity may vary between greek communities and the broader population, where naming trends differ. The name's meaning of "This name derives from the Ancient Greek and Phoenician “kékasmai (κέκασμαι) Kádmos (Κάδμος) (qadmon),” meaning “one who excels, from the east, ancient.” Kadmos was a Phoenician prince, the son of King Agenor and Queen Telephassa of Tyre and the brother of Phoenix, Cilix, and Europa. He was initially sent by his royal parents to seek out and escort his sister Europa back to Tyre after she was abducted from the shores of Phoenicia by Zeus." likely influences its appeal, as parents often choose names that express values or hopes for their children. Among boys' names, Cadmos holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
Where is the name Cadmos commonly used?
Cadmos is used primarily in french naming traditions. Though greek in origin, Cadmos found a home in other cultures where it resonated with local naming preferences. The meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek and Phoenician “kékasmai (κέκασμαι) Kádmos (Κάδμος) (qadmon),” meaning “one who excels, from the east, ancient.” Kadmos was a Phoenician prince, the son of King Agenor and Queen Telephassa of Tyre and the brother of Phoenix, Cilix, and Europa. He was initially sent by his royal parents to seek out and escort his sister Europa back to Tyre after she was abducted from the shores of Phoenicia by Zeus." carries universal appeal, helping explain why different cultures adopted Cadmos into their naming traditions. A child named Cadmos will likely find their name recognized in multiple countries, which can be an advantage for families with international connections or who value global accessibility. Across these cultures, Cadmos is given to boys, maintaining consistent gender association.
What is the cultural significance of Cadmos?
Cadmos carries associations with GREEK MYTHOLOGY. These qualities shape how people perceive the name and those who carry it, creating expectations and first impressions. The name's meaning of "This name derives from the Ancient Greek and Phoenician “kékasmai (κέκασμαι) Kádmos (Κάδμος) (qadmon),” meaning “one who excels, from the east, ancient.” Kadmos was a Phoenician prince, the son of King Agenor and Queen Telephassa of Tyre and the brother of Phoenix, Cilix, and Europa. He was initially sent by his royal parents to seek out and escort his sister Europa back to Tyre after she was abducted from the shores of Phoenicia by Zeus." reinforces these associations, connecting the literal translation to the character traits people expect. In greek culture, where Cadmos originates, these qualities held particular value, making the name a way to express hopes for a child's character. Research shows that names do influence perceptions. People form impressions based on names before meeting someone, which means choosing Cadmos sets certain expectations. Parents choosing Cadmos often connect with one or more of these associations, selecting the name because it represents qualities they value or wish for their child. In french communities, these associations may carry extra weight, as naming traditions often reinforce cultural values.

Sources: Etymology verified through linguistic research including Oxford Dictionary of First Names, Behind the Name, and academic etymology databases.

Similar Names

Explore More Names

Explore by Meaning