Kefalas: a male name of Greek origin meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “képhale (κέφαλη) Képhalos (Κέφαλος),” meaning “head".It derives from the Greek word "képhale > Képhalos".
Kefalas is a masculine name that means "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “képhale (κέφαλη) Képhalos (Κέφαλος),” meaning “head". 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 Kefalas
Quick facts about Kefalas
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 “képhale (κέφαλη) Képhalos (Κέφαλος),” meaning “head.” Képhalos is a king of Phocis who accidentally killed his own wife. Képhalos is an Ancient Greek name, used both for the hero-figure in Greek mythology and carried as a theophoric name by historical persons. The word kephale is Greek for “head,” perhaps used here because Cephalus was the founding of a great family that includes Odysseus. He is mainly considered to be the son of Deioneo and Diomedea, though minor versions have him as the son of Hermes and Herse or King Pandion of Athens.
Etymology & Details
Name Root
képhale > Képhalos
How to Pronounce Kefalas
Kefalas is pronounced /ˈkɛ.fə.ləs/(English)
Step-by-step pronunciation guide:
Break it into syllables: Kef-al-as
Say it like: "KEF-AL-AS"
Practice saying it naturally a few times
✓Pronunciation verified by linguistic sources
Usage & Popularity
Kefalas is predominantly used in lithuanian speaking communities, where it maintains strong cultural connections and traditional significance.
lithuanian
Frequently Asked Questions About Kefalas
What does the name Kefalas mean?
Kefalas means "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “képhale (κέφαλη) Képhalos (Κέφαλος),” meaning “head.” Képhalos is a king of Phocis who accidentally killed his own wife. Képhalos is an Ancient Greek name, used both for the hero-figure in Greek mythology and carried as a theophoric name by historical persons. The word kephale is Greek for “head,” perhaps used here because Cephalus was the founding of a great family that includes Odysseus. He is mainly considered to be the son of Deioneo and Diomedea, though minor versions have him as the son of Hermes and Herse or King Pandion of Athens.". The name comes from képhale > Képhalos. In its original form, the name derives from képhale (κέφαλη) Képhalos (Κέφαλος). This greek name has been passed down through generations, carrying its meaning across different cultures and time periods. Parents who choose Kefalas for boys often connect with the name's meaning of "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “képhale (κέφαλη) Képhalos (Κέφαλος),” meaning “head.” Képhalos is a king of Phocis who accidentally killed his own wife. Képhalos is an Ancient Greek name, used both for the hero-figure in Greek mythology and carried as a theophoric name by historical persons. The word kephale is Greek for “head,” perhaps used here because Cephalus was the founding of a great family that includes Odysseus. He is mainly considered to be the son of Deioneo and Diomedea, though minor versions have him as the son of Hermes and Herse or King Pandion of Athens." as a quality they hope to see in their child. While not the most common choice, Kefalas'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 (KINGS), reflecting its meaning in how people perceive those who carry it.
What is the origin of the name Kefalas?
Kefalas is a greek name. The name traces back to képhale > Képhalos. The original form képhale (κέφαλη) Képhalos (Κέφαλος) shows the name's roots in its native language. The name remains closely tied to lithuanian naming traditions while occasionally appearing in other cultures. The greek meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “képhale (κέφαλη) Képhalos (Κέφαλος),” meaning “head.” Képhalos is a king of Phocis who accidentally killed his own wife. Képhalos is an Ancient Greek name, used both for the hero-figure in Greek mythology and carried as a theophoric name by historical persons. The word kephale is Greek for “head,” perhaps used here because Cephalus was the founding of a great family that includes Odysseus. He is mainly considered to be the son of Deioneo and Diomedea, though minor versions have him as the son of Hermes and Herse or King Pandion of Athens." reflects values important in the culture where this name first appeared.
Is Kefalas a boy or girl name?
Kefalas 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, Kefalas has historically been given to boys. The meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “képhale (κέφαλη) Képhalos (Κέφαλος),” meaning “head.” Képhalos is a king of Phocis who accidentally killed his own wife. Képhalos is an Ancient Greek name, used both for the hero-figure in Greek mythology and carried as a theophoric name by historical persons. The word kephale is Greek for “head,” perhaps used here because Cephalus was the founding of a great family that includes Odysseus. He is mainly considered to be the son of Deioneo and Diomedea, though minor versions have him as the son of Hermes and Herse or King Pandion of Athens." carries well for a son, giving the name lasting appeal.
How do you pronounce Kefalas?
Kefalas is pronounced "/ˈkɛ.fə.ləs/". This pronunciation follows en language patterns. As a single-syllable name, Kefalas is quick to say and easy to call out. If you're unfamiliar with greek names, listening to a native speaker say Kefalas can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis. The name's root képhale > Képhalos influences how Kefalas sounds in its original language.
How popular is the name Kefalas?
Kefalas is somewhat common, familiar to most people. With moderate popularity, Kefalas offers familiarity without being everywhere. It's the kind of name people recognize but don't hear every day. Kefalas'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 “képhale (κέφαλη) Képhalos (Κέφαλος),” meaning “head.” Képhalos is a king of Phocis who accidentally killed his own wife. Képhalos is an Ancient Greek name, used both for the hero-figure in Greek mythology and carried as a theophoric name by historical persons. The word kephale is Greek for “head,” perhaps used here because Cephalus was the founding of a great family that includes Odysseus. He is mainly considered to be the son of Deioneo and Diomedea, though minor versions have him as the son of Hermes and Herse or King Pandion of Athens." likely influences its appeal, as parents often choose names that express values or hopes for their children. Among boys' names, Kefalas holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
Where is the name Kefalas commonly used?
Kefalas is used primarily in lithuanian naming traditions. Though greek in origin, Kefalas found a home in other cultures where it resonated with local naming preferences. The meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “képhale (κέφαλη) Képhalos (Κέφαλος),” meaning “head.” Képhalos is a king of Phocis who accidentally killed his own wife. Képhalos is an Ancient Greek name, used both for the hero-figure in Greek mythology and carried as a theophoric name by historical persons. The word kephale is Greek for “head,” perhaps used here because Cephalus was the founding of a great family that includes Odysseus. He is mainly considered to be the son of Deioneo and Diomedea, though minor versions have him as the son of Hermes and Herse or King Pandion of Athens." carries universal appeal, helping explain why different cultures adopted Kefalas into their naming traditions. A child named Kefalas 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, Kefalas is given to boys, maintaining consistent gender association.
What is the cultural significance of Kefalas?
Kefalas carries associations with GREEK MYTHOLOGY (KINGS). 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 “képhale (κέφαλη) Képhalos (Κέφαλος),” meaning “head.” Képhalos is a king of Phocis who accidentally killed his own wife. Képhalos is an Ancient Greek name, used both for the hero-figure in Greek mythology and carried as a theophoric name by historical persons. The word kephale is Greek for “head,” perhaps used here because Cephalus was the founding of a great family that includes Odysseus. He is mainly considered to be the son of Deioneo and Diomedea, though minor versions have him as the son of Hermes and Herse or King Pandion of Athens." reinforces these associations, connecting the literal translation to the character traits people expect. In greek culture, where Kefalas 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 Kefalas sets certain expectations. Parents choosing Kefalas often connect with one or more of these associations, selecting the name because it represents qualities they value or wish for their child. In lithuanian 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.