Klytus: a male name of Greek origin meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “kléō (κλέω) kleitós (κλειτός),” meaning “to tell of, make famous, celebrate, renowned, splendid, excellent".It derives from the Greek word "kléō > kleitós ".
In Greek tradition, Klytus holds special significance as a masculine name representing This name derives from the Ancient Greek “kléō (κλέω) kleitós (κλειτός),” meaning “to tell of, make famous, celebrate, renowned, splendid, excellent. 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 Klytus
Quick facts about Klytus
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 “kléō (κλέω) kleitós (κλειτός),” meaning “to tell of, make famous, celebrate, renowned, splendid, excellent.” It is the name of multiple figures in Greek mythology. One of them is Cleitus the Black (Κλεῖτος ὁ μέλας) (375–328), an officer of the Macedonian army led by Alexander the Great. He saved Alexander’s life at the Granicus’s Battle and was killed by him several years later in a drunken quarrel. Cleitus was the son of Dropides and brother of Alexander’s nurse, Lanike.
Etymology & Details
Name Root
kléō > kleitós
How to Pronounce Klytus
Klytus is pronounced /ˈklaɪ.təs/(Greek)
Step-by-step pronunciation guide:
Break it into syllables: Kly-tus
Say it like: "KLY-TUS"
Practice saying it naturally a few times
✓Pronunciation verified by linguistic sources
Usage & Popularity
This name has found popularity across ancient Greek (Latinized), and german speaking regions, demonstrating its cross-cultural appeal and adaptability.
ancient Greek (Latinized)german
Frequently Asked Questions About Klytus
What does the name Klytus mean?
Klytus means "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “kléō (κλέω) kleitós (κλειτός),” meaning “to tell of, make famous, celebrate, renowned, splendid, excellent.” It is the name of multiple figures in Greek mythology. One of them is Cleitus the Black (Κλεῖτος ὁ μέλας) (375–328), an officer of the Macedonian army led by Alexander the Great. He saved Alexander’s life at the Granicus’s Battle and was killed by him several years later in a drunken quarrel. Cleitus was the son of Dropides and brother of Alexander’s nurse, Lanike.". The name comes from kléō > kleitós . In its original form, the name derives from kléō (κλέω) kleitós (κλειτός). This greek name has been passed down through generations, carrying its meaning across different cultures and time periods. Parents who choose Klytus for boys often connect with the name's meaning of "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “kléō (κλέω) kleitós (κλειτός),” meaning “to tell of, make famous, celebrate, renowned, splendid, excellent.” It is the name of multiple figures in Greek mythology. One of them is Cleitus the Black (Κλεῖτος ὁ μέλας) (375–328), an officer of the Macedonian army led by Alexander the Great. He saved Alexander’s life at the Granicus’s Battle and was killed by him several years later in a drunken quarrel. Cleitus was the son of Dropides and brother of Alexander’s nurse, Lanike." as a quality they hope to see in their child. While not the most common choice, Klytus'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 Klytus?
Klytus is a greek name. The name traces back to kléō > kleitós . The original form kléō (κλέω) kleitós (κλειτός) shows the name's roots in its native language. From its greek roots, Klytus spread to become common in ancient Greek (Latinized), german. The greek meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “kléō (κλέω) kleitós (κλειτός),” meaning “to tell of, make famous, celebrate, renowned, splendid, excellent.” It is the name of multiple figures in Greek mythology. One of them is Cleitus the Black (Κλεῖτος ὁ μέλας) (375–328), an officer of the Macedonian army led by Alexander the Great. He saved Alexander’s life at the Granicus’s Battle and was killed by him several years later in a drunken quarrel. Cleitus was the son of Dropides and brother of Alexander’s nurse, Lanike." reflects values important in the culture where this name first appeared.
Is Klytus a boy or girl name?
Klytus 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, Klytus has historically been given to boys. The meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “kléō (κλέω) kleitós (κλειτός),” meaning “to tell of, make famous, celebrate, renowned, splendid, excellent.” It is the name of multiple figures in Greek mythology. One of them is Cleitus the Black (Κλεῖτος ὁ μέλας) (375–328), an officer of the Macedonian army led by Alexander the Great. He saved Alexander’s life at the Granicus’s Battle and was killed by him several years later in a drunken quarrel. Cleitus was the son of Dropides and brother of Alexander’s nurse, Lanike." carries well for a son, giving the name lasting appeal.
How do you pronounce Klytus?
Klytus is pronounced "/ˈklaɪ.təs/". This pronunciation follows el language patterns. As a single-syllable name, Klytus is quick to say and easy to call out. Pronunciation may vary slightly in ancient Greek (Latinized), german, 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 Klytus can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis. The name's root kléō > kleitós influences how Klytus sounds in its original language.
How popular is the name Klytus?
Klytus is somewhat common, familiar to most people. With moderate popularity, Klytus offers familiarity without being everywhere. It's the kind of name people recognize but don't hear every day. Klytus'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 “kléō (κλέω) kleitós (κλειτός),” meaning “to tell of, make famous, celebrate, renowned, splendid, excellent.” It is the name of multiple figures in Greek mythology. One of them is Cleitus the Black (Κλεῖτος ὁ μέλας) (375–328), an officer of the Macedonian army led by Alexander the Great. He saved Alexander’s life at the Granicus’s Battle and was killed by him several years later in a drunken quarrel. Cleitus was the son of Dropides and brother of Alexander’s nurse, Lanike." likely influences its appeal, as parents often choose names that express values or hopes for their children. Among boys' names, Klytus holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
Where is the name Klytus commonly used?
Klytus is common in ancient Greek (Latinized) and german naming traditions. Though greek in origin, Klytus found a home in other cultures where it resonated with local naming preferences. The meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “kléō (κλέω) kleitós (κλειτός),” meaning “to tell of, make famous, celebrate, renowned, splendid, excellent.” It is the name of multiple figures in Greek mythology. One of them is Cleitus the Black (Κλεῖτος ὁ μέλας) (375–328), an officer of the Macedonian army led by Alexander the Great. He saved Alexander’s life at the Granicus’s Battle and was killed by him several years later in a drunken quarrel. Cleitus was the son of Dropides and brother of Alexander’s nurse, Lanike." carries universal appeal, helping explain why different cultures adopted Klytus into their naming traditions. A child named Klytus 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, Klytus is given to boys, maintaining consistent gender association.
What is the cultural significance of Klytus?
Klytus 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 “kléō (κλέω) kleitós (κλειτός),” meaning “to tell of, make famous, celebrate, renowned, splendid, excellent.” It is the name of multiple figures in Greek mythology. One of them is Cleitus the Black (Κλεῖτος ὁ μέλας) (375–328), an officer of the Macedonian army led by Alexander the Great. He saved Alexander’s life at the Granicus’s Battle and was killed by him several years later in a drunken quarrel. Cleitus was the son of Dropides and brother of Alexander’s nurse, Lanike." reinforces these associations, connecting the literal translation to the character traits people expect. In greek culture, where Klytus 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 Klytus sets certain expectations. Parents choosing Klytus often connect with one or more of these associations, selecting the name because it represents qualities they value or wish for their child. In ancient Greek (Latinized) 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.