Cléofas: a male name of Greek origin meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek name “Kleópatros (Κλεόπᾰτρος),” composed of two elements: “kléos (κλέος)” (rumor, report, good report, fame, glory) plus “patḗr (πᾰτήρ) patrós (πατρός)” (father)".It derives from the Greek word "kléos patḗr / patrós > Kleópatros".
Parents seeking a meaningful masculine name often discover Cléofas, drawn to its Greek heritage and beautiful significance: "This name derives from the Ancient Greek name “Kleópatros (Κλεόπᾰτρος),” composed of two elements: “kléos (κλέος)” (rumor, report, good report, fame, glory) plus “patḗr (πᾰτήρ) patrós (πατρός)” (father)". This name offers a perfect blend of cultural depth and personal meaning, making it a timeless choice for families around the world.
Quick Facts About Cléofas
Quick facts about Cléofas
Origin
Greek
Gender
Boy name
Popularity
Moderately 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 name “Kleópatros (Κλεόπᾰτρος),” composed of two elements: “kléos (κλέος)” (rumor, report, good report, fame, glory) plus “patḗr (πᾰτήρ) patrós (πατρός)” (father). In turn, the name means “glory of the father.” Cleopatra “Cleopatra the goddess” (164–121) was the ruler of the Hellenistic Seleucid empire. She ruled Syria from 125 BC after the death of Demetrius II Nicator. Cleopatra VII (69–30), known to history as Cleopatra, was the last pharaoh of ancient Egypt. She was a member of the Ptolemaic dynasty, a family of Greek origin that ruled Egypt after Alexander the Great’s death during the Hellenistic period. The identity of Cleopatra’s mother is unknown, but she is generally believed to be Cleopatra V Tryphaena of Egypt, the sister or cousin, and wife of Ptolemy XII Auletes. Another possibility is a Ptolemaic family member who was the daughter of Ptolemy X and Cleopatra Berenice III Philopator if Cleopatra V was not the daughter of Ptolemy X and Berenice III.
Etymology & Details
Name Root
kléos patḗr / patrós > Kleópatros
How to Pronounce Cléofas
Cléofas is pronounced /kleɪˈoʊfəs/(French)
Step-by-step pronunciation guide:
Break it into syllables: Cléof-as
Say it like: "KLEEEHOOOFOOHS"
Practice saying it naturally a few times
Usage & Popularity
Cléofas is predominantly used in portuguese speaking communities, where it maintains strong cultural connections and traditional significance.
portuguese
Frequently Asked Questions About Cléofas
What does the name Cléofas mean?
Cléofas means "This name derives from the Ancient Greek name “Kleópatros (Κλεόπᾰτρος),” composed of two elements: “kléos (κλέος)” (rumor, report, good report, fame, glory) plus “patḗr (πᾰτήρ) patrós (πατρός)” (father). In turn, the name means “glory of the father.” Cleopatra “Cleopatra the goddess” (164–121) was the ruler of the Hellenistic Seleucid empire. She ruled Syria from 125 BC after the death of Demetrius II Nicator. Cleopatra VII (69–30), known to history as Cleopatra, was the last pharaoh of ancient Egypt. She was a member of the Ptolemaic dynasty, a family of Greek origin that ruled Egypt after Alexander the Great’s death during the Hellenistic period. The identity of Cleopatra’s mother is unknown, but she is generally believed to be Cleopatra V Tryphaena of Egypt, the sister or cousin, and wife of Ptolemy XII Auletes. Another possibility is a Ptolemaic family member who was the daughter of Ptolemy X and Cleopatra Berenice III Philopator if Cleopatra V was not the daughter of Ptolemy X and Berenice III.". The name comes from kléos patḗr / patrós > Kleópatros. In its original form, the name derives from kléos (κλέος) patḗr (πᾰτήρ) patrós (πατρός) Kleópatros (Κλεόπᾰτρος). This greek name has been passed down through generations, carrying its meaning across different cultures and time periods. Parents who choose Cléofas for boys often connect with the name's meaning of "This name derives from the Ancient Greek name “Kleópatros (Κλεόπᾰτρος),” composed of two elements: “kléos (κλέος)” (rumor, report, good report, fame, glory) plus “patḗr (πᾰτήρ) patrós (πατρός)” (father). In turn, the name means “glory of the father.” Cleopatra “Cleopatra the goddess” (164–121) was the ruler of the Hellenistic Seleucid empire. She ruled Syria from 125 BC after the death of Demetrius II Nicator. Cleopatra VII (69–30), known to history as Cleopatra, was the last pharaoh of ancient Egypt. She was a member of the Ptolemaic dynasty, a family of Greek origin that ruled Egypt after Alexander the Great’s death during the Hellenistic period. The identity of Cleopatra’s mother is unknown, but she is generally believed to be Cleopatra V Tryphaena of Egypt, the sister or cousin, and wife of Ptolemy XII Auletes. Another possibility is a Ptolemaic family member who was the daughter of Ptolemy X and Cleopatra Berenice III Philopator if Cleopatra V was not the daughter of Ptolemy X and Berenice III." as a quality they hope to see in their child. While not the most common choice, Cléofas's meaningful roots have given it staying power among parents looking for a name with substance.
What is the origin of the name Cléofas?
Cléofas is a greek name. The name traces back to kléos patḗr / patrós > Kleópatros. The original form kléos (κλέος) patḗr (πᾰτήρ) patrós (πατρός) Kleópatros (Κλεόπᾰτρος) shows the name's roots in its native language. The name remains closely tied to portuguese naming traditions while occasionally appearing in other cultures. The greek meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek name “Kleópatros (Κλεόπᾰτρος),” composed of two elements: “kléos (κλέος)” (rumor, report, good report, fame, glory) plus “patḗr (πᾰτήρ) patrós (πατρός)” (father). In turn, the name means “glory of the father.” Cleopatra “Cleopatra the goddess” (164–121) was the ruler of the Hellenistic Seleucid empire. She ruled Syria from 125 BC after the death of Demetrius II Nicator. Cleopatra VII (69–30), known to history as Cleopatra, was the last pharaoh of ancient Egypt. She was a member of the Ptolemaic dynasty, a family of Greek origin that ruled Egypt after Alexander the Great’s death during the Hellenistic period. The identity of Cleopatra’s mother is unknown, but she is generally believed to be Cleopatra V Tryphaena of Egypt, the sister or cousin, and wife of Ptolemy XII Auletes. Another possibility is a Ptolemaic family member who was the daughter of Ptolemy X and Cleopatra Berenice III Philopator if Cleopatra V was not the daughter of Ptolemy X and Berenice III." reflects values important in the culture where this name first appeared.
Is Cléofas a boy or girl name?
Cléofas 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, Cléofas has historically been given to boys. The meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek name “Kleópatros (Κλεόπᾰτρος),” composed of two elements: “kléos (κλέος)” (rumor, report, good report, fame, glory) plus “patḗr (πᾰτήρ) patrós (πατρός)” (father). In turn, the name means “glory of the father.” Cleopatra “Cleopatra the goddess” (164–121) was the ruler of the Hellenistic Seleucid empire. She ruled Syria from 125 BC after the death of Demetrius II Nicator. Cleopatra VII (69–30), known to history as Cleopatra, was the last pharaoh of ancient Egypt. She was a member of the Ptolemaic dynasty, a family of Greek origin that ruled Egypt after Alexander the Great’s death during the Hellenistic period. The identity of Cleopatra’s mother is unknown, but she is generally believed to be Cleopatra V Tryphaena of Egypt, the sister or cousin, and wife of Ptolemy XII Auletes. Another possibility is a Ptolemaic family member who was the daughter of Ptolemy X and Cleopatra Berenice III Philopator if Cleopatra V was not the daughter of Ptolemy X and Berenice III." carries well for a son, giving the name lasting appeal.
How do you pronounce Cléofas?
Cléofas is pronounced "/kleɪˈoʊfəs/". This pronunciation follows fr language patterns. As a single-syllable name, Cléofas is quick to say and easy to call out. If you're unfamiliar with greek names, listening to a native speaker say Cléofas can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis. The name's root kléos patḗr / patrós > Kleópatros influences how Cléofas sounds in its original language.
What are common nicknames for Cléofas?
Cléofas is commonly used as a nickname for Kleópatros. Being a shortened version of Kleópatros, Cléofas offers a casual alternative that's quicker to say in everyday conversation. Many people named Kleópatros go by Cléofas throughout their lives, using the full name only on official documents. In greek cultures, using Cléofas as a nickname carries a sense of familiarity and warmth. This nickname pattern is common among boys and men, though some now use Cléofas as a given name on its own. Today, parents sometimes put Cléofas 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 Cléofas?
Cléofas is somewhat common, familiar to most people. With moderate popularity, Cléofas offers familiarity without being everywhere. It's the kind of name people recognize but don't hear every day. Cléofas'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 name “Kleópatros (Κλεόπᾰτρος),” composed of two elements: “kléos (κλέος)” (rumor, report, good report, fame, glory) plus “patḗr (πᾰτήρ) patrós (πατρός)” (father). In turn, the name means “glory of the father.” Cleopatra “Cleopatra the goddess” (164–121) was the ruler of the Hellenistic Seleucid empire. She ruled Syria from 125 BC after the death of Demetrius II Nicator. Cleopatra VII (69–30), known to history as Cleopatra, was the last pharaoh of ancient Egypt. She was a member of the Ptolemaic dynasty, a family of Greek origin that ruled Egypt after Alexander the Great’s death during the Hellenistic period. The identity of Cleopatra’s mother is unknown, but she is generally believed to be Cleopatra V Tryphaena of Egypt, the sister or cousin, and wife of Ptolemy XII Auletes. Another possibility is a Ptolemaic family member who was the daughter of Ptolemy X and Cleopatra Berenice III Philopator if Cleopatra V was not the daughter of Ptolemy X and Berenice III." likely influences its appeal, as parents often choose names that express values or hopes for their children. Among boys' names, Cléofas holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
Where is the name Cléofas commonly used?
Cléofas is used primarily in portuguese naming traditions. Though greek in origin, Cléofas found a home in other cultures where it resonated with local naming preferences. The meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek name “Kleópatros (Κλεόπᾰτρος),” composed of two elements: “kléos (κλέος)” (rumor, report, good report, fame, glory) plus “patḗr (πᾰτήρ) patrós (πατρός)” (father). In turn, the name means “glory of the father.” Cleopatra “Cleopatra the goddess” (164–121) was the ruler of the Hellenistic Seleucid empire. She ruled Syria from 125 BC after the death of Demetrius II Nicator. Cleopatra VII (69–30), known to history as Cleopatra, was the last pharaoh of ancient Egypt. She was a member of the Ptolemaic dynasty, a family of Greek origin that ruled Egypt after Alexander the Great’s death during the Hellenistic period. The identity of Cleopatra’s mother is unknown, but she is generally believed to be Cleopatra V Tryphaena of Egypt, the sister or cousin, and wife of Ptolemy XII Auletes. Another possibility is a Ptolemaic family member who was the daughter of Ptolemy X and Cleopatra Berenice III Philopator if Cleopatra V was not the daughter of Ptolemy X and Berenice III." carries universal appeal, helping explain why different cultures adopted Cléofas into their naming traditions. A child named Cléofas 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, Cléofas is given to boys, maintaining consistent gender association.
Sources: Etymology verified through linguistic research including Oxford Dictionary of First Names, Behind the Name, and academic etymology databases.