Kefalos: 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".
In Greek tradition, Kefalos holds special significance as a masculine name representing This name derives from the Ancient Greek “képhale (κέφαλη) Képhalos (Κέφαλος),” meaning “head. This name has been cherished across generations, carrying with it the wisdom and heritage of Greek culture. Its enduring popularity speaks to its universal resonance.
Quick Facts About Kefalos
Quick facts about Kefalos
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 Kefalos
Kefalos is pronounced /ˈkɛfəlɒs/(Greek)
Step-by-step pronunciation guide:
Break it into syllables: Kef-al-os
Say it like: "KEF-AL-OS"
Practice saying it naturally a few times
✓Pronunciation verified by linguistic sources
Usage & Popularity
This name has found popularity across polish, and czech speaking regions, demonstrating its cross-cultural appeal and adaptability.
polishczech
Frequently Asked Questions About Kefalos
What does the name Kefalos mean?
Kefalos 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 Kefalos 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, Kefalos'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 Kefalos?
Kefalos 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. From its greek roots, Kefalos spread to become common in polish, czech. 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 Kefalos a boy or girl name?
Kefalos 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, Kefalos 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 Kefalos?
Kefalos is pronounced "/ˈkɛfəlɒs/". This pronunciation follows el language patterns. As a single-syllable name, Kefalos is quick to say and easy to call out. Pronunciation may vary slightly in polish, czech, 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 Kefalos can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis. The name's root képhale > Képhalos influences how Kefalos sounds in its original language.
How popular is the name Kefalos?
Kefalos is somewhat common, familiar to most people. With moderate popularity, Kefalos offers familiarity without being everywhere. It's the kind of name people recognize but don't hear every day. Kefalos'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, Kefalos holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
Where is the name Kefalos commonly used?
Kefalos is common in polish and czech naming traditions. Though greek in origin, Kefalos 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 Kefalos into their naming traditions. A child named Kefalos 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, Kefalos is given to boys, maintaining consistent gender association.
What is the cultural significance of Kefalos?
Kefalos 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 Kefalos 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 Kefalos sets certain expectations. Parents choosing Kefalos often connect with one or more of these associations, selecting the name because it represents qualities they value or wish for their child. In polish 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.