Efialt: a male name of Greek origin meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “ephiáltēs (ἐφιάλτης),” meaning “nightmare,” which in turn derives from “ephàllomai (ἐφάλλομαι)".It derives from the Greek word "epí állomai > ephàllomai > ephiáltēs".
Efialt is a masculine name that means "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “ephiáltēs (ἐφιάλτης),” meaning “nightmare,” which in turn derives from “ephàllomai (ἐφάλλομαι)". 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 Efialt
Quick facts about Efialt
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 “ephiáltēs (ἐφιάλτης),” meaning “nightmare,” which in turn derives from “ephàllomai (ἐφάλλομαι).” The name composed of two elements: “epí (ἐπῐ́)” (upon, on) plus “állomai (ἅλλομαι)” (assault, climb, uphill, Jumping, jump) because, about a popular belief, the nightmares were nicknamed “one who climbed over the body of the dormant.” Ephialtes was the son of Eurydemus of Malis. He betrayed his homeland, in the hope of receiving some reward from the Persians, by showing the Persian forces a path around the allied Greek position at the pass of Thermopylae, which helped them win the Battle of Thermopylae in 480 BC.
Etymology & Details
Name Root
epí állomai > ephàllomai > ephiáltēs
Other Scripts
Bulgarian (Ефиалт)
How to Pronounce Efialt
Efialt is pronounced /ˈɛf.i.ɑːlt/(Greek)
Step-by-step pronunciation guide:
Break it into syllables: Ef-ialt
Say it like: "EF-IALT"
Practice saying it naturally a few times
✓Pronunciation verified by linguistic sources
Usage & Popularity
Efialt is predominantly used in bulgarian speaking communities, where it maintains strong cultural connections and traditional significance.
bulgarian
Frequently Asked Questions About Efialt
What does the name Efialt mean?
Efialt means "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “ephiáltēs (ἐφιάλτης),” meaning “nightmare,” which in turn derives from “ephàllomai (ἐφάλλομαι).” The name composed of two elements: “epí (ἐπῐ́)” (upon, on) plus “állomai (ἅλλομαι)” (assault, climb, uphill, Jumping, jump) because, about a popular belief, the nightmares were nicknamed “one who climbed over the body of the dormant.” Ephialtes was the son of Eurydemus of Malis. He betrayed his homeland, in the hope of receiving some reward from the Persians, by showing the Persian forces a path around the allied Greek position at the pass of Thermopylae, which helped them win the Battle of Thermopylae in 480 BC.". The name comes from epí állomai > ephàllomai > ephiáltēs. In its original form, the name derives from epí (ἐπῐ́) állomai (ἅλλομαι) ephàllomai (ἐφάλλομαι) ephiáltēs (ἐφιάλτης). This greek name has been passed down through generations, carrying its meaning across different cultures and time periods. Parents who choose Efialt for boys often connect with the name's meaning of "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “ephiáltēs (ἐφιάλτης),” meaning “nightmare,” which in turn derives from “ephàllomai (ἐφάλλομαι).” The name composed of two elements: “epí (ἐπῐ́)” (upon, on) plus “állomai (ἅλλομαι)” (assault, climb, uphill, Jumping, jump) because, about a popular belief, the nightmares were nicknamed “one who climbed over the body of the dormant.” Ephialtes was the son of Eurydemus of Malis. He betrayed his homeland, in the hope of receiving some reward from the Persians, by showing the Persian forces a path around the allied Greek position at the pass of Thermopylae, which helped them win the Battle of Thermopylae in 480 BC." as a quality they hope to see in their child. While not the most common choice, Efialt'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 (MINOR FIGURES), reflecting its meaning in how people perceive those who carry it.
What is the origin of the name Efialt?
Efialt is a greek name. The name traces back to epí állomai > ephàllomai > ephiáltēs. The original form epí (ἐπῐ́) állomai (ἅλλομαι) ephàllomai (ἐφάλλομαι) ephiáltēs (ἐφιάλτης) shows the name's roots in its native language. In its native script, Efialt is written as Bulgarian (Ефиалт). The name remains closely tied to bulgarian naming traditions while occasionally appearing in other cultures. The greek meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “ephiáltēs (ἐφιάλτης),” meaning “nightmare,” which in turn derives from “ephàllomai (ἐφάλλομαι).” The name composed of two elements: “epí (ἐπῐ́)” (upon, on) plus “állomai (ἅλλομαι)” (assault, climb, uphill, Jumping, jump) because, about a popular belief, the nightmares were nicknamed “one who climbed over the body of the dormant.” Ephialtes was the son of Eurydemus of Malis. He betrayed his homeland, in the hope of receiving some reward from the Persians, by showing the Persian forces a path around the allied Greek position at the pass of Thermopylae, which helped them win the Battle of Thermopylae in 480 BC." reflects values important in the culture where this name first appeared.
Is Efialt a boy or girl name?
Efialt 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, Efialt has historically been given to boys. The meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “ephiáltēs (ἐφιάλτης),” meaning “nightmare,” which in turn derives from “ephàllomai (ἐφάλλομαι).” The name composed of two elements: “epí (ἐπῐ́)” (upon, on) plus “állomai (ἅλλομαι)” (assault, climb, uphill, Jumping, jump) because, about a popular belief, the nightmares were nicknamed “one who climbed over the body of the dormant.” Ephialtes was the son of Eurydemus of Malis. He betrayed his homeland, in the hope of receiving some reward from the Persians, by showing the Persian forces a path around the allied Greek position at the pass of Thermopylae, which helped them win the Battle of Thermopylae in 480 BC." carries well for a son, giving the name lasting appeal.
How do you pronounce Efialt?
Efialt is pronounced "/ˈɛf.i.ɑːlt/". This pronunciation follows el language patterns. In its original script, the name appears as Bulgarian (Ефиалт), which helps explain how native speakers pronounce it. As a single-syllable name, Efialt is quick to say and easy to call out. If you're unfamiliar with greek names, listening to a native speaker say Efialt can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis. The name's root epí állomai > ephàllomai > ephiáltēs influences how Efialt sounds in its original language.
How popular is the name Efialt?
Efialt is somewhat common, familiar to most people. With moderate popularity, Efialt offers familiarity without being everywhere. It's the kind of name people recognize but don't hear every day. Efialt'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 “ephiáltēs (ἐφιάλτης),” meaning “nightmare,” which in turn derives from “ephàllomai (ἐφάλλομαι).” The name composed of two elements: “epí (ἐπῐ́)” (upon, on) plus “állomai (ἅλλομαι)” (assault, climb, uphill, Jumping, jump) because, about a popular belief, the nightmares were nicknamed “one who climbed over the body of the dormant.” Ephialtes was the son of Eurydemus of Malis. He betrayed his homeland, in the hope of receiving some reward from the Persians, by showing the Persian forces a path around the allied Greek position at the pass of Thermopylae, which helped them win the Battle of Thermopylae in 480 BC." likely influences its appeal, as parents often choose names that express values or hopes for their children. Among boys' names, Efialt holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
Where is the name Efialt commonly used?
Efialt is used primarily in bulgarian naming traditions. Though greek in origin, Efialt found a home in other cultures where it resonated with local naming preferences. The meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “ephiáltēs (ἐφιάλτης),” meaning “nightmare,” which in turn derives from “ephàllomai (ἐφάλλομαι).” The name composed of two elements: “epí (ἐπῐ́)” (upon, on) plus “állomai (ἅλλομαι)” (assault, climb, uphill, Jumping, jump) because, about a popular belief, the nightmares were nicknamed “one who climbed over the body of the dormant.” Ephialtes was the son of Eurydemus of Malis. He betrayed his homeland, in the hope of receiving some reward from the Persians, by showing the Persian forces a path around the allied Greek position at the pass of Thermopylae, which helped them win the Battle of Thermopylae in 480 BC." carries universal appeal, helping explain why different cultures adopted Efialt into their naming traditions. A child named Efialt 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, Efialt is given to boys, maintaining consistent gender association.
What is the cultural significance of Efialt?
Efialt carries associations with GREEK MYTHOLOGY (MINOR FIGURES). 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 “ephiáltēs (ἐφιάλτης),” meaning “nightmare,” which in turn derives from “ephàllomai (ἐφάλλομαι).” The name composed of two elements: “epí (ἐπῐ́)” (upon, on) plus “állomai (ἅλλομαι)” (assault, climb, uphill, Jumping, jump) because, about a popular belief, the nightmares were nicknamed “one who climbed over the body of the dormant.” Ephialtes was the son of Eurydemus of Malis. He betrayed his homeland, in the hope of receiving some reward from the Persians, by showing the Persian forces a path around the allied Greek position at the pass of Thermopylae, which helped them win the Battle of Thermopylae in 480 BC." reinforces these associations, connecting the literal translation to the character traits people expect. In greek culture, where Efialt 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 Efialt sets certain expectations. Parents choosing Efialt often connect with one or more of these associations, selecting the name because it represents qualities they value or wish for their child. In bulgarian 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.