Cis

Boy Name
Origin:greek
Pronunciation:/sɪs/

Cis: a male name of Greek origin meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Nárkissos (Νάρκισσος),” which in turn derives from “nárkē ‎(νάρκη)” meaning “numbness, torpor". It derives from the Greek word "nárkē > Nárkissos".

Cis has maintained its appeal as a masculine name in modern times while preserving its Greek roots. Today, parents are drawn to its meaningful essence of "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Nárkissos (Νάρκισσος),” which in turn derives from “nárkē ‎(νάρκη)” meaning “numbness, torpor" and its cultural richness. This name bridges traditional heritage with contemporary naming trends.

Quick Facts About Cis

Quick facts about Cis
OriginGreek
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 “Nárkissos (Νάρκισσος),” which in turn derives from “nárkē ‎(νάρκη)” meaning “numbness, torpor.” In Greek mythology was a hunter from the territory of Thespiae in Boeotia, who was renowned for his beauty. He was exceptionally proud, in that he disdained those who loved him. Nemesis saw this and attracted Narcissus to a pool where he saw his reflection in the water and fell in love with it, not realizing it was merely an image. Unable to leave the beauty of his thought, Narcissus died. Narcissus is the origin of the term narcissism, a fixation with oneself. Saint Narcissus of Jerusalem (~99–216) was an early patriarch of Jerusalem. He is venerated as a saint by both the Western and Eastern Churches. The feast day is traditionally celebrated on October 29.

Etymology & Details

Name Root

nárkē > Nárkissos

How to Pronounce Cis

Cis is pronounced /sɪs/(Greek)

Step-by-step pronunciation guide:

  1. Break it into syllables: Cis
  2. Say it like: "SEEHS"
  3. Practice saying it naturally a few times

Pronunciation verified by linguistic sources

Usage & Popularity

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

catalan
Frequently Asked Questions About Cis
What does the name Cis mean?
Cis means "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Nárkissos (Νάρκισσος),” which in turn derives from “nárkē ‎(νάρκη)” meaning “numbness, torpor.” In Greek mythology was a hunter from the territory of Thespiae in Boeotia, who was renowned for his beauty. He was exceptionally proud, in that he disdained those who loved him. Nemesis saw this and attracted Narcissus to a pool where he saw his reflection in the water and fell in love with it, not realizing it was merely an image. Unable to leave the beauty of his thought, Narcissus died. Narcissus is the origin of the term narcissism, a fixation with oneself. Saint Narcissus of Jerusalem (~99–216) was an early patriarch of Jerusalem. He is venerated as a saint by both the Western and Eastern Churches. The feast day is traditionally celebrated on October 29.". The name comes from nárkē > Nárkissos. In its original form, the name derives from nárkē ‎(νάρκη) Nárkissos (Νάρκισσος). This greek name has been passed down through generations, carrying its meaning across different cultures and time periods. Parents who choose Cis for boys often connect with the name's meaning of "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Nárkissos (Νάρκισσος),” which in turn derives from “nárkē ‎(νάρκη)” meaning “numbness, torpor.” In Greek mythology was a hunter from the territory of Thespiae in Boeotia, who was renowned for his beauty. He was exceptionally proud, in that he disdained those who loved him. Nemesis saw this and attracted Narcissus to a pool where he saw his reflection in the water and fell in love with it, not realizing it was merely an image. Unable to leave the beauty of his thought, Narcissus died. Narcissus is the origin of the term narcissism, a fixation with oneself. Saint Narcissus of Jerusalem (~99–216) was an early patriarch of Jerusalem. He is venerated as a saint by both the Western and Eastern Churches. The feast day is traditionally celebrated on October 29." as a quality they hope to see in their child. While not the most common choice, Cis'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 / BIBLICAL / RELIGION (SAINTS), reflecting its meaning in how people perceive those who carry it.
What is the origin of the name Cis?
Cis is a greek name. The name traces back to nárkē > Nárkissos. The original form nárkē ‎(νάρκη) Nárkissos (Νάρκισσος) shows the name's roots in its native language. The name remains closely tied to catalan naming traditions while occasionally appearing in other cultures. The greek meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Nárkissos (Νάρκισσος),” which in turn derives from “nárkē ‎(νάρκη)” meaning “numbness, torpor.” In Greek mythology was a hunter from the territory of Thespiae in Boeotia, who was renowned for his beauty. He was exceptionally proud, in that he disdained those who loved him. Nemesis saw this and attracted Narcissus to a pool where he saw his reflection in the water and fell in love with it, not realizing it was merely an image. Unable to leave the beauty of his thought, Narcissus died. Narcissus is the origin of the term narcissism, a fixation with oneself. Saint Narcissus of Jerusalem (~99–216) was an early patriarch of Jerusalem. He is venerated as a saint by both the Western and Eastern Churches. The feast day is traditionally celebrated on October 29." reflects values important in the culture where this name first appeared.
Is Cis a boy or girl name?
Cis 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, Cis has historically been given to boys. The meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Nárkissos (Νάρκισσος),” which in turn derives from “nárkē ‎(νάρκη)” meaning “numbness, torpor.” In Greek mythology was a hunter from the territory of Thespiae in Boeotia, who was renowned for his beauty. He was exceptionally proud, in that he disdained those who loved him. Nemesis saw this and attracted Narcissus to a pool where he saw his reflection in the water and fell in love with it, not realizing it was merely an image. Unable to leave the beauty of his thought, Narcissus died. Narcissus is the origin of the term narcissism, a fixation with oneself. Saint Narcissus of Jerusalem (~99–216) was an early patriarch of Jerusalem. He is venerated as a saint by both the Western and Eastern Churches. The feast day is traditionally celebrated on October 29." carries well for a son, giving the name lasting appeal.
How do you pronounce Cis?
Cis is pronounced "/sɪs/". This pronunciation follows el language patterns. As a single-syllable name, Cis is quick to say and easy to call out. If you're unfamiliar with greek names, listening to a native speaker say Cis can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis. This pronunciation has been verified and represents the standard way to say the name. The name's root nárkē > Nárkissos influences how Cis sounds in its original language.
What are common nicknames for Cis?
Cis is commonly used as a nickname for Narcís. Being a shortened version of Narcís, Cis offers a casual alternative that's quicker to say in everyday conversation. Many people named Narcís go by Cis throughout their lives, using the full name only on official documents. In greek cultures, using Cis as a nickname carries a sense of familiarity and warmth. This nickname pattern is common among boys and men, though some now use Cis as a given name on its own. Today, parents sometimes put Cis on the birth certificate directly, skipping the longer form entirely. This gives the child a name that feels both complete and approachable.
How popular is the name Cis?
Cis is somewhat common, familiar to most people. With moderate popularity, Cis offers familiarity without being everywhere. It's the kind of name people recognize but don't hear every day. Cis'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 “Nárkissos (Νάρκισσος),” which in turn derives from “nárkē ‎(νάρκη)” meaning “numbness, torpor.” In Greek mythology was a hunter from the territory of Thespiae in Boeotia, who was renowned for his beauty. He was exceptionally proud, in that he disdained those who loved him. Nemesis saw this and attracted Narcissus to a pool where he saw his reflection in the water and fell in love with it, not realizing it was merely an image. Unable to leave the beauty of his thought, Narcissus died. Narcissus is the origin of the term narcissism, a fixation with oneself. Saint Narcissus of Jerusalem (~99–216) was an early patriarch of Jerusalem. He is venerated as a saint by both the Western and Eastern Churches. The feast day is traditionally celebrated on October 29." likely influences its appeal, as parents often choose names that express values or hopes for their children. Among boys' names, Cis holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
Where is the name Cis commonly used?
Cis is used primarily in catalan naming traditions. Though greek in origin, Cis found a home in other cultures where it resonated with local naming preferences. The meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Nárkissos (Νάρκισσος),” which in turn derives from “nárkē ‎(νάρκη)” meaning “numbness, torpor.” In Greek mythology was a hunter from the territory of Thespiae in Boeotia, who was renowned for his beauty. He was exceptionally proud, in that he disdained those who loved him. Nemesis saw this and attracted Narcissus to a pool where he saw his reflection in the water and fell in love with it, not realizing it was merely an image. Unable to leave the beauty of his thought, Narcissus died. Narcissus is the origin of the term narcissism, a fixation with oneself. Saint Narcissus of Jerusalem (~99–216) was an early patriarch of Jerusalem. He is venerated as a saint by both the Western and Eastern Churches. The feast day is traditionally celebrated on October 29." carries universal appeal, helping explain why different cultures adopted Cis into their naming traditions. A child named Cis 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, Cis is given to boys, maintaining consistent gender association.
What is the cultural significance of Cis?
Cis carries associations with GREEK MYTHOLOGY / BIBLICAL / RELIGION (SAINTS). 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 “Nárkissos (Νάρκισσος),” which in turn derives from “nárkē ‎(νάρκη)” meaning “numbness, torpor.” In Greek mythology was a hunter from the territory of Thespiae in Boeotia, who was renowned for his beauty. He was exceptionally proud, in that he disdained those who loved him. Nemesis saw this and attracted Narcissus to a pool where he saw his reflection in the water and fell in love with it, not realizing it was merely an image. Unable to leave the beauty of his thought, Narcissus died. Narcissus is the origin of the term narcissism, a fixation with oneself. Saint Narcissus of Jerusalem (~99–216) was an early patriarch of Jerusalem. He is venerated as a saint by both the Western and Eastern Churches. The feast day is traditionally celebrated on October 29." reinforces these associations, connecting the literal translation to the character traits people expect. In greek culture, where Cis 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 Cis sets certain expectations. Parents choosing Cis often connect with one or more of these associations, selecting the name because it represents qualities they value or wish for their child. In catalan 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.

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