Kadmo

Boy Name
Origin:greek
Pronunciation:/ˈkædmoʊ/

Kadmo: a male name of Greek origin meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek and Phoenician “kékasmai (κέκασμαι) Kádmos (Κάδμος) (qadmon),” meaning “one who excels, from the east, ancient". It derives from the Greek word (kékasmai > Kádmos) (qadmon).

Parents seeking a meaningful masculine name often discover Kadmo, drawn to its Greek heritage and beautiful significance: "This name derives from the Ancient Greek and Phoenician “kékasmai (κέκασμαι) Kádmos (Κάδμος) (qadmon),” meaning “one who excels, from the east, ancient". 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 Kadmo

Quick facts about Kadmo
OriginGreek, Phoenician
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 and Phoenician “kékasmai (κέκασμαι) Kádmos (Κάδμος) (qadmon),” meaning “one who excels, from the east, ancient.” Kadmos was a Phoenician prince, the son of King Agenor and Queen Telephassa of Tyre and the brother of Phoenix, Cilix, and Europa. He was initially sent by his royal parents to seek out and escort his sister Europa back to Tyre after she was abducted from the shores of Phoenicia by Zeus.

Etymology & Details

Name Root

(kékasmai > Kádmos) (qadmon)

Other Scripts

Serbian (Кадмо)

How to Pronounce Kadmo

Kadmo is pronounced /ˈkædmoʊ/(Greek)

Step-by-step pronunciation guide:

  1. Break it into syllables: Kad-mo
  2. Say it like: "KADMOOO"
  3. Practice saying it naturally a few times

Pronunciation verified by linguistic sources

Usage & Popularity

Kadmo enjoys international appeal, used in 8 different linguistic and cultural contexts including esperanto, norwegian, turkish, and many others. This widespread adoption reflects its universal resonance.

esperantonorwegianturkishserbianswedishfinnishpolishczech
Frequently Asked Questions About Kadmo
What does the name Kadmo mean?
Kadmo means "This name derives from the Ancient Greek and Phoenician “kékasmai (κέκασμαι) Kádmos (Κάδμος) (qadmon),” meaning “one who excels, from the east, ancient.” Kadmos was a Phoenician prince, the son of King Agenor and Queen Telephassa of Tyre and the brother of Phoenix, Cilix, and Europa. He was initially sent by his royal parents to seek out and escort his sister Europa back to Tyre after she was abducted from the shores of Phoenicia by Zeus.". The name comes from (kékasmai > Kádmos) (qadmon). In its original form, the name derives from kékasmai (κέκασμαι) Kádmos (Κάδμος). This greek name has been passed down through generations, carrying its meaning across different cultures and time periods. Parents who choose Kadmo for boys often connect with the name's meaning of "This name derives from the Ancient Greek and Phoenician “kékasmai (κέκασμαι) Kádmos (Κάδμος) (qadmon),” meaning “one who excels, from the east, ancient.” Kadmos was a Phoenician prince, the son of King Agenor and Queen Telephassa of Tyre and the brother of Phoenix, Cilix, and Europa. He was initially sent by his royal parents to seek out and escort his sister Europa back to Tyre after she was abducted from the shores of Phoenicia by Zeus." as a quality they hope to see in their child. While not the most common choice, Kadmo'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 Kadmo?
Kadmo has greek and phoenician origins. The name traces back to (kékasmai > Kádmos) (qadmon). The original form kékasmai (κέκασμαι) Kádmos (Κάδμος) shows the name's roots in its native language. In its native script, Kadmo is written as Serbian (Кадмо). From its greek roots, Kadmo spread to become common in esperanto, norwegian, turkish, serbian and other cultures. The greek meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek and Phoenician “kékasmai (κέκασμαι) Kádmos (Κάδμος) (qadmon),” meaning “one who excels, from the east, ancient.” Kadmos was a Phoenician prince, the son of King Agenor and Queen Telephassa of Tyre and the brother of Phoenix, Cilix, and Europa. He was initially sent by his royal parents to seek out and escort his sister Europa back to Tyre after she was abducted from the shores of Phoenicia by Zeus." reflects values important in the culture where this name first appeared.
Is Kadmo a boy or girl name?
Kadmo 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, Kadmo has historically been given to boys. The meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek and Phoenician “kékasmai (κέκασμαι) Kádmos (Κάδμος) (qadmon),” meaning “one who excels, from the east, ancient.” Kadmos was a Phoenician prince, the son of King Agenor and Queen Telephassa of Tyre and the brother of Phoenix, Cilix, and Europa. He was initially sent by his royal parents to seek out and escort his sister Europa back to Tyre after she was abducted from the shores of Phoenicia by Zeus." carries well for a son, giving the name lasting appeal.
How do you pronounce Kadmo?
Kadmo is pronounced "/ˈkædmoʊ/". This pronunciation follows el language patterns. In its original script, the name appears as Serbian (Кадмо), which helps explain how native speakers pronounce it. As a single-syllable name, Kadmo is quick to say and easy to call out. Pronunciation may vary slightly in esperanto, norwegian, turkish, where the name is also used. Local accents and language rules can shift certain sounds while keeping the name recognizable. If you're unfamiliar with greek names, listening to a native speaker say Kadmo can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis. The name's root (kékasmai > Kádmos) (qadmon) influences how Kadmo sounds in its original language.
How popular is the name Kadmo?
Kadmo is somewhat common, familiar to most people. With moderate popularity, Kadmo offers familiarity without being everywhere. It's the kind of name people recognize but don't hear every day. Kadmo'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 and Phoenician “kékasmai (κέκασμαι) Kádmos (Κάδμος) (qadmon),” meaning “one who excels, from the east, ancient.” Kadmos was a Phoenician prince, the son of King Agenor and Queen Telephassa of Tyre and the brother of Phoenix, Cilix, and Europa. He was initially sent by his royal parents to seek out and escort his sister Europa back to Tyre after she was abducted from the shores of Phoenicia by Zeus." likely influences its appeal, as parents often choose names that express values or hopes for their children. Among boys' names, Kadmo holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
Where is the name Kadmo commonly used?
Kadmo spans multiple cultures, including esperanto, norwegian, turkish, and 5 other traditions. Though greek in origin, Kadmo found a home in other cultures where it resonated with local naming preferences. Names that work across multiple cultures, like Kadmo, often have straightforward pronunciation and positive meanings that translate well. The meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek and Phoenician “kékasmai (κέκασμαι) Kádmos (Κάδμος) (qadmon),” meaning “one who excels, from the east, ancient.” Kadmos was a Phoenician prince, the son of King Agenor and Queen Telephassa of Tyre and the brother of Phoenix, Cilix, and Europa. He was initially sent by his royal parents to seek out and escort his sister Europa back to Tyre after she was abducted from the shores of Phoenicia by Zeus." carries universal appeal, helping explain why different cultures adopted Kadmo into their naming traditions. A child named Kadmo 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, Kadmo is given to boys, maintaining consistent gender association.
What is the cultural significance of Kadmo?
Kadmo 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 and Phoenician “kékasmai (κέκασμαι) Kádmos (Κάδμος) (qadmon),” meaning “one who excels, from the east, ancient.” Kadmos was a Phoenician prince, the son of King Agenor and Queen Telephassa of Tyre and the brother of Phoenix, Cilix, and Europa. He was initially sent by his royal parents to seek out and escort his sister Europa back to Tyre after she was abducted from the shores of Phoenicia by Zeus." reinforces these associations, connecting the literal translation to the character traits people expect. In greek culture, where Kadmo 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 Kadmo sets certain expectations. Parents choosing Kadmo often connect with one or more of these associations, selecting the name because it represents qualities they value or wish for their child. In esperanto 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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