Kleto: a male name of Greek origin meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Anákletos (Ανάκλητος),” meaning “invoked,” which in turn derives from “anakaló (ανακαλώ), meaning “revoke, rescind".It derives from the Greek word "anakaló > Anáklētos > Anacletus".
Kleto has maintained its appeal as a masculine name in modern times while preserving its Greek roots. Today, parents are drawn to its meaningful essence of "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Anákletos (Ανάκλητος),” meaning “invoked,” which in turn derives from “anakaló (ανακαλώ), meaning “revoke, rescind" and its cultural richness. This name bridges traditional heritage with contemporary naming trends.
Quick Facts About Kleto
Quick facts about Kleto
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 “Anákletos (Ανάκλητος),” meaning “invoked,” which in turn derives from “anakaló (ανακαλώ), meaning “revoke, rescind.” Pope Anacletus (Cletus) was the third pope, following Saint Peter and Pope Linus from ~79 to his death ~92. His pontificate was once erroneously split into Anacletus and Cletus. Blessed Anacleto González Flores was a Mexican Catholic layman and lawyer, executed during the Catholic Church’s persecution under the presidency of Plutarco Elías Calles.
Etymology & Details
Name Root
anakaló > Anáklētos > Anacletus
How to Pronounce Kleto
Kleto is pronounced /ˈkleɪ.toʊ/(English)
Step-by-step pronunciation guide:
Break it into syllables: Klet-o
Say it like: "KLET-O"
Practice saying it naturally a few times
✓Pronunciation verified by linguistic sources
Usage & Popularity
Kleto is predominantly used in basque speaking communities, where it maintains strong cultural connections and traditional significance.
basque
Frequently Asked Questions About Kleto
What does the name Kleto mean?
Kleto means "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Anákletos (Ανάκλητος),” meaning “invoked,” which in turn derives from “anakaló (ανακαλώ), meaning “revoke, rescind.” Pope Anacletus (Cletus) was the third pope, following Saint Peter and Pope Linus from ~79 to his death ~92. His pontificate was once erroneously split into Anacletus and Cletus. Blessed Anacleto González Flores was a Mexican Catholic layman and lawyer, executed during the Catholic Church’s persecution under the presidency of Plutarco Elías Calles.". The name comes from anakaló > Anáklētos > Anacletus. In its original form, the name derives from anakaló (ανακαλώ) Anáklētos (Ανάκλητος). This greek name has been passed down through generations, carrying its meaning across different cultures and time periods. Parents who choose Kleto for boys often connect with the name's meaning of "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Anákletos (Ανάκλητος),” meaning “invoked,” which in turn derives from “anakaló (ανακαλώ), meaning “revoke, rescind.” Pope Anacletus (Cletus) was the third pope, following Saint Peter and Pope Linus from ~79 to his death ~92. His pontificate was once erroneously split into Anacletus and Cletus. Blessed Anacleto González Flores was a Mexican Catholic layman and lawyer, executed during the Catholic Church’s persecution under the presidency of Plutarco Elías Calles." as a quality they hope to see in their child. While not the most common choice, Kleto's meaningful roots have given it staying power among parents looking for a name with substance.
What is the origin of the name Kleto?
Kleto is a greek name. The name traces back to anakaló > Anáklētos > Anacletus. The original form anakaló (ανακαλώ) Anáklētos (Ανάκλητος) shows the name's roots in its native language. The name remains closely tied to basque naming traditions while occasionally appearing in other cultures. The greek meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Anákletos (Ανάκλητος),” meaning “invoked,” which in turn derives from “anakaló (ανακαλώ), meaning “revoke, rescind.” Pope Anacletus (Cletus) was the third pope, following Saint Peter and Pope Linus from ~79 to his death ~92. His pontificate was once erroneously split into Anacletus and Cletus. Blessed Anacleto González Flores was a Mexican Catholic layman and lawyer, executed during the Catholic Church’s persecution under the presidency of Plutarco Elías Calles." reflects values important in the culture where this name first appeared.
Is Kleto a boy or girl name?
Kleto 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, Kleto has historically been given to boys. The meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Anákletos (Ανάκλητος),” meaning “invoked,” which in turn derives from “anakaló (ανακαλώ), meaning “revoke, rescind.” Pope Anacletus (Cletus) was the third pope, following Saint Peter and Pope Linus from ~79 to his death ~92. His pontificate was once erroneously split into Anacletus and Cletus. Blessed Anacleto González Flores was a Mexican Catholic layman and lawyer, executed during the Catholic Church’s persecution under the presidency of Plutarco Elías Calles." carries well for a son, giving the name lasting appeal.
How do you pronounce Kleto?
Kleto is pronounced "/ˈkleɪ.toʊ/". This pronunciation follows en language patterns. As a single-syllable name, Kleto is quick to say and easy to call out. If you're unfamiliar with greek names, listening to a native speaker say Kleto can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis. The name's root anakaló > Anáklētos > Anacletus influences how Kleto sounds in its original language.
What are common nicknames for Kleto?
Kleto is commonly used as a nickname for Anakleto. Being a shortened version of Anakleto, Kleto offers a casual alternative that's quicker to say in everyday conversation. Many people named Anakleto go by Kleto throughout their lives, using the full name only on official documents. In greek cultures, using Kleto as a nickname carries a sense of familiarity and warmth. This nickname pattern is common among boys and men, though some now use Kleto as a given name on its own. Today, parents sometimes put Kleto on the birth certificate directly, skipping the longer form entirely. This gives the child a name that feels both complete and approachable.
How popular is the name Kleto?
Kleto is somewhat common, familiar to most people. With moderate popularity, Kleto offers familiarity without being everywhere. It's the kind of name people recognize but don't hear every day. Kleto'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 “Anákletos (Ανάκλητος),” meaning “invoked,” which in turn derives from “anakaló (ανακαλώ), meaning “revoke, rescind.” Pope Anacletus (Cletus) was the third pope, following Saint Peter and Pope Linus from ~79 to his death ~92. His pontificate was once erroneously split into Anacletus and Cletus. Blessed Anacleto González Flores was a Mexican Catholic layman and lawyer, executed during the Catholic Church’s persecution under the presidency of Plutarco Elías Calles." likely influences its appeal, as parents often choose names that express values or hopes for their children. Among boys' names, Kleto holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
Where is the name Kleto commonly used?
Kleto is used primarily in basque naming traditions. Though greek in origin, Kleto found a home in other cultures where it resonated with local naming preferences. The meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Anákletos (Ανάκλητος),” meaning “invoked,” which in turn derives from “anakaló (ανακαλώ), meaning “revoke, rescind.” Pope Anacletus (Cletus) was the third pope, following Saint Peter and Pope Linus from ~79 to his death ~92. His pontificate was once erroneously split into Anacletus and Cletus. Blessed Anacleto González Flores was a Mexican Catholic layman and lawyer, executed during the Catholic Church’s persecution under the presidency of Plutarco Elías Calles." carries universal appeal, helping explain why different cultures adopted Kleto into their naming traditions. A child named Kleto 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, Kleto 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.