Clitus

Boy Name
Origin:greek
Pronunciation:/ˈklaɪtəs/

Clitus: a male name of Greek origin meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “kléō ‎(κλέω) kleitós ‎(κλειτός),” meaning “to tell of, make famous, celebrate, renowned, splendid, excellent". It derives from the Greek word "kléō > kleitós ‎".

The name Clitus carries a rich history rooted in Greek culture. Derived from "kléō > kleitós ‎", this masculine name embodies the essence of This name derives from the Ancient Greek “kléō ‎(κλέω) kleitós ‎(κλειτός),” meaning “to tell of, make famous, celebrate, renowned, splendid, excellent. Its linguistic journey through centuries reflects the cultural values and traditions of Greek-speaking communities.

Quick Facts About Clitus

Quick facts about Clitus
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 “kléō ‎(κλέω) kleitós ‎(κλειτός),” meaning “to tell of, make famous, celebrate, renowned, splendid, excellent.” It is the name of multiple figures in Greek mythology. One of them is Cleitus the Black (Κλεῖτος ὁ μέλας) (375–328), an officer of the Macedonian army led by Alexander the Great. He saved Alexander’s life at the Granicus’s Battle and was killed by him several years later in a drunken quarrel. Cleitus was the son of Dropides and brother of Alexander’s nurse, Lanike.

Etymology & Details

Name Root

kléō > kleitós ‎

How to Pronounce Clitus

Clitus is pronounced /ˈklaɪtəs/

Step-by-step pronunciation guide:

  1. Break it into syllables: Clit-us
  2. Say it like: "KLAEEHTOOHS"
  3. Practice saying it naturally a few times

Usage & Popularity

Clitus is predominantly used in ancient Greek (Latinized) speaking communities, where it maintains strong cultural connections and traditional significance.

ancient Greek (Latinized)
Frequently Asked Questions About Clitus
What does the name Clitus mean?
Clitus means "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “kléō ‎(κλέω) kleitós ‎(κλειτός),” meaning “to tell of, make famous, celebrate, renowned, splendid, excellent.” It is the name of multiple figures in Greek mythology. One of them is Cleitus the Black (Κλεῖτος ὁ μέλας) (375–328), an officer of the Macedonian army led by Alexander the Great. He saved Alexander’s life at the Granicus’s Battle and was killed by him several years later in a drunken quarrel. Cleitus was the son of Dropides and brother of Alexander’s nurse, Lanike.". The name comes from kléō > kleitós ‎. In its original form, the name derives from kléō ‎(κλέω) kleitós ‎(κλειτός). This greek name has been passed down through generations, carrying its meaning across different cultures and time periods. Parents who choose Clitus for boys often connect with the name's meaning of "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “kléō ‎(κλέω) kleitós ‎(κλειτός),” meaning “to tell of, make famous, celebrate, renowned, splendid, excellent.” It is the name of multiple figures in Greek mythology. One of them is Cleitus the Black (Κλεῖτος ὁ μέλας) (375–328), an officer of the Macedonian army led by Alexander the Great. He saved Alexander’s life at the Granicus’s Battle and was killed by him several years later in a drunken quarrel. Cleitus was the son of Dropides and brother of Alexander’s nurse, Lanike." as a quality they hope to see in their child. While not the most common choice, Clitus'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 Clitus?
Clitus is a greek name. The name traces back to kléō > kleitós ‎. The original form kléō ‎(κλέω) kleitós ‎(κλειτός) shows the name's roots in its native language. The name remains closely tied to ancient Greek (Latinized) naming traditions while occasionally appearing in other cultures. The greek meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “kléō ‎(κλέω) kleitós ‎(κλειτός),” meaning “to tell of, make famous, celebrate, renowned, splendid, excellent.” It is the name of multiple figures in Greek mythology. One of them is Cleitus the Black (Κλεῖτος ὁ μέλας) (375–328), an officer of the Macedonian army led by Alexander the Great. He saved Alexander’s life at the Granicus’s Battle and was killed by him several years later in a drunken quarrel. Cleitus was the son of Dropides and brother of Alexander’s nurse, Lanike." reflects values important in the culture where this name first appeared.
Is Clitus a boy or girl name?
Clitus 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, Clitus has historically been given to boys. The meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “kléō ‎(κλέω) kleitós ‎(κλειτός),” meaning “to tell of, make famous, celebrate, renowned, splendid, excellent.” It is the name of multiple figures in Greek mythology. One of them is Cleitus the Black (Κλεῖτος ὁ μέλας) (375–328), an officer of the Macedonian army led by Alexander the Great. He saved Alexander’s life at the Granicus’s Battle and was killed by him several years later in a drunken quarrel. Cleitus was the son of Dropides and brother of Alexander’s nurse, Lanike." carries well for a son, giving the name lasting appeal.
How do you pronounce Clitus?
Clitus is pronounced "/ˈklaɪtəs/". This pronunciation follows gr language patterns. As a single-syllable name, Clitus is quick to say and easy to call out. If you're unfamiliar with greek names, listening to a native speaker say Clitus can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis. The name's root kléō > kleitós ‎ influences how Clitus sounds in its original language.
How popular is the name Clitus?
Clitus is somewhat common, familiar to most people. With moderate popularity, Clitus offers familiarity without being everywhere. It's the kind of name people recognize but don't hear every day. Clitus'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 “kléō ‎(κλέω) kleitós ‎(κλειτός),” meaning “to tell of, make famous, celebrate, renowned, splendid, excellent.” It is the name of multiple figures in Greek mythology. One of them is Cleitus the Black (Κλεῖτος ὁ μέλας) (375–328), an officer of the Macedonian army led by Alexander the Great. He saved Alexander’s life at the Granicus’s Battle and was killed by him several years later in a drunken quarrel. Cleitus was the son of Dropides and brother of Alexander’s nurse, Lanike." likely influences its appeal, as parents often choose names that express values or hopes for their children. Among boys' names, Clitus holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
Where is the name Clitus commonly used?
Clitus is used primarily in ancient Greek (Latinized) naming traditions. Though greek in origin, Clitus found a home in other cultures where it resonated with local naming preferences. The meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “kléō ‎(κλέω) kleitós ‎(κλειτός),” meaning “to tell of, make famous, celebrate, renowned, splendid, excellent.” It is the name of multiple figures in Greek mythology. One of them is Cleitus the Black (Κλεῖτος ὁ μέλας) (375–328), an officer of the Macedonian army led by Alexander the Great. He saved Alexander’s life at the Granicus’s Battle and was killed by him several years later in a drunken quarrel. Cleitus was the son of Dropides and brother of Alexander’s nurse, Lanike." carries universal appeal, helping explain why different cultures adopted Clitus into their naming traditions. A child named Clitus 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, Clitus is given to boys, maintaining consistent gender association.
What is the cultural significance of Clitus?
Clitus 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 “kléō ‎(κλέω) kleitós ‎(κλειτός),” meaning “to tell of, make famous, celebrate, renowned, splendid, excellent.” It is the name of multiple figures in Greek mythology. One of them is Cleitus the Black (Κλεῖτος ὁ μέλας) (375–328), an officer of the Macedonian army led by Alexander the Great. He saved Alexander’s life at the Granicus’s Battle and was killed by him several years later in a drunken quarrel. Cleitus was the son of Dropides and brother of Alexander’s nurse, Lanike." reinforces these associations, connecting the literal translation to the character traits people expect. In greek culture, where Clitus 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 Clitus sets certain expectations. Parents choosing Clitus often connect with one or more of these associations, selecting the name because it represents qualities they value or wish for their child. In ancient Greek (Latinized) 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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