Epafra: a male name of Greek origin meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Epaphrás (Ἐπαφρᾶς),” composed of two elements: “epí (ἐπῐ́)” (on, up) plus “aphrós (ἀφρός) Aphrodī́tē (Ἀφροδῑ́τη)” (foam, of the sea)".It derives from the Greek word "epí aphrós > Aphrodī́tē > Epaphrás".
Epafra is a masculine name that means "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Epaphrás (Ἐπαφρᾶς),” composed of two elements: “epí (ἐπῐ́)” (on, up) plus “aphrós (ἀφρός) Aphrodī́tē (Ἀφροδῑ́τη)” (foam, of the sea)". 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 Epafra
Quick facts about Epafra
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 “Epaphrás (Ἐπαφρᾶς),” composed of two elements: “epí (ἐπῐ́)” (on, up) plus “aphrós (ἀφρός) Aphrodī́tē (Ἀφροδῑ́τη)” (foam, of the sea). In turn, the name means “foamy, covered with foam (figurative: lovely).” Epaphras was a Christian preacher who spread the Gospel to his fellow Colossian citizens. When Paul was a prisoner in Rome, Epaphras came to him with a favorable account of the Church at Colossae. He is revered as a saint by the Catholic Church and the Orthodox Church. The feast day is traditionally celebrated on July 19.
Etymology & Details
Name Root
epí aphrós > Aphrodī́tē > Epaphrás
How to Pronounce Epafra
Epafra is pronounced /ɛˈpɑ.fɹə/(Greek)
Step-by-step pronunciation guide:
Break it into syllables: Ep-afra
Say it like: "EP-AFRA"
Practice saying it naturally a few times
✓Pronunciation verified by linguistic sources
Usage & Popularity
Epafra is predominantly used in italian speaking communities, where it maintains strong cultural connections and traditional significance.
italian
Frequently Asked Questions About Epafra
What does the name Epafra mean?
Epafra means "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Epaphrás (Ἐπαφρᾶς),” composed of two elements: “epí (ἐπῐ́)” (on, up) plus “aphrós (ἀφρός) Aphrodī́tē (Ἀφροδῑ́τη)” (foam, of the sea). In turn, the name means “foamy, covered with foam (figurative: lovely).” Epaphras was a Christian preacher who spread the Gospel to his fellow Colossian citizens. When Paul was a prisoner in Rome, Epaphras came to him with a favorable account of the Church at Colossae. He is revered as a saint by the Catholic Church and the Orthodox Church. The feast day is traditionally celebrated on July 19.". The name comes from epí aphrós > Aphrodī́tē > Epaphrás. In its original form, the name derives from epí (ἐπῐ́) aphrós (ἀφρός) Aphrodī́tē (Ἀφροδῑ́τη) Epaphrás (Ἐπαφρᾶς). This greek name has been passed down through generations, carrying its meaning across different cultures and time periods. Parents who choose Epafra for boys often connect with the name's meaning of "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Epaphrás (Ἐπαφρᾶς),” composed of two elements: “epí (ἐπῐ́)” (on, up) plus “aphrós (ἀφρός) Aphrodī́tē (Ἀφροδῑ́τη)” (foam, of the sea). In turn, the name means “foamy, covered with foam (figurative: lovely).” Epaphras was a Christian preacher who spread the Gospel to his fellow Colossian citizens. When Paul was a prisoner in Rome, Epaphras came to him with a favorable account of the Church at Colossae. He is revered as a saint by the Catholic Church and the Orthodox Church. The feast day is traditionally celebrated on July 19." as a quality they hope to see in their child. While not the most common choice, Epafra's meaningful roots have given it staying power among parents looking for a name with substance.
What is the origin of the name Epafra?
Epafra is a greek name. The name traces back to epí aphrós > Aphrodī́tē > Epaphrás. The original form epí (ἐπῐ́) aphrós (ἀφρός) Aphrodī́tē (Ἀφροδῑ́τη) Epaphrás (Ἐπαφρᾶς) shows the name's roots in its native language. The name remains closely tied to italian naming traditions while occasionally appearing in other cultures. The greek meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Epaphrás (Ἐπαφρᾶς),” composed of two elements: “epí (ἐπῐ́)” (on, up) plus “aphrós (ἀφρός) Aphrodī́tē (Ἀφροδῑ́τη)” (foam, of the sea). In turn, the name means “foamy, covered with foam (figurative: lovely).” Epaphras was a Christian preacher who spread the Gospel to his fellow Colossian citizens. When Paul was a prisoner in Rome, Epaphras came to him with a favorable account of the Church at Colossae. He is revered as a saint by the Catholic Church and the Orthodox Church. The feast day is traditionally celebrated on July 19." reflects values important in the culture where this name first appeared.
Is Epafra a boy or girl name?
Epafra 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, Epafra has historically been given to boys. The meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Epaphrás (Ἐπαφρᾶς),” composed of two elements: “epí (ἐπῐ́)” (on, up) plus “aphrós (ἀφρός) Aphrodī́tē (Ἀφροδῑ́τη)” (foam, of the sea). In turn, the name means “foamy, covered with foam (figurative: lovely).” Epaphras was a Christian preacher who spread the Gospel to his fellow Colossian citizens. When Paul was a prisoner in Rome, Epaphras came to him with a favorable account of the Church at Colossae. He is revered as a saint by the Catholic Church and the Orthodox Church. The feast day is traditionally celebrated on July 19." carries well for a son, giving the name lasting appeal.
How do you pronounce Epafra?
Epafra is pronounced "/ɛˈpɑ.fɹə/". This pronunciation follows el language patterns. As a single-syllable name, Epafra is quick to say and easy to call out. If you're unfamiliar with greek names, listening to a native speaker say Epafra can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis. The name's root epí aphrós > Aphrodī́tē > Epaphrás influences how Epafra sounds in its original language.
How popular is the name Epafra?
Epafra is somewhat common, familiar to most people. With moderate popularity, Epafra offers familiarity without being everywhere. It's the kind of name people recognize but don't hear every day. Epafra'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 “Epaphrás (Ἐπαφρᾶς),” composed of two elements: “epí (ἐπῐ́)” (on, up) plus “aphrós (ἀφρός) Aphrodī́tē (Ἀφροδῑ́τη)” (foam, of the sea). In turn, the name means “foamy, covered with foam (figurative: lovely).” Epaphras was a Christian preacher who spread the Gospel to his fellow Colossian citizens. When Paul was a prisoner in Rome, Epaphras came to him with a favorable account of the Church at Colossae. He is revered as a saint by the Catholic Church and the Orthodox Church. The feast day is traditionally celebrated on July 19." likely influences its appeal, as parents often choose names that express values or hopes for their children. Among boys' names, Epafra holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
Where is the name Epafra commonly used?
Epafra is used primarily in italian naming traditions. Though greek in origin, Epafra found a home in other cultures where it resonated with local naming preferences. The meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Epaphrás (Ἐπαφρᾶς),” composed of two elements: “epí (ἐπῐ́)” (on, up) plus “aphrós (ἀφρός) Aphrodī́tē (Ἀφροδῑ́τη)” (foam, of the sea). In turn, the name means “foamy, covered with foam (figurative: lovely).” Epaphras was a Christian preacher who spread the Gospel to his fellow Colossian citizens. When Paul was a prisoner in Rome, Epaphras came to him with a favorable account of the Church at Colossae. He is revered as a saint by the Catholic Church and the Orthodox Church. The feast day is traditionally celebrated on July 19." carries universal appeal, helping explain why different cultures adopted Epafra into their naming traditions. A child named Epafra 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, Epafra 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.