Laertes: a male name of Greek origin meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Laértēs (Λαέρτης),” composed of two elements: “lāós (λᾱός)” (people, people assembled) plus “eírō (εἴρω)” (tie, join, fasten, string together)".It derives from the Greek word "lāós eírō > Laértēs".
The name Laertes carries a rich history rooted in Greek culture. Derived from "lāós eírō > Laértēs", this masculine name embodies the essence of This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Laértēs (Λαέρτης),” composed of two elements: “lāós (λᾱός)” (people, people assembled) plus “eírō (εἴρω)” (tie, join, fasten, string together). Its linguistic journey through centuries reflects the cultural values and traditions of Greek-speaking communities.
Quick Facts About Laertes
Quick facts about Laertes
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 “Laértēs (Λαέρτης),” composed of two elements: “lāós (λᾱός)” (people, people assembled) plus “eírō (εἴρω)” (tie, join, fasten, string together). In turn, the name means “one who gathers the people.” Laertes was the son of Arcesius and Chalcomedusa. He was the father of Odysseus and Ctimene by his wife Anticlea, daughter of the thief Autolycus. Laertes was an Argonaut and participated in the hunt for the Calydonian boar. Laertes’s title was king of the Cephallenians, which he presumably inherited from his father, Crcesius, and grandfather Cephalus.
Etymology & Details
Name Root
lāós eírō > Laértēs
How to Pronounce Laertes
Laertes is pronounced /leɪˈɛr.tiz/(English)
Step-by-step pronunciation guide:
Break it into syllables: Lae-rte-s
Say it like: "LAE-RTE-S"
Practice saying it naturally a few times
✓Pronunciation verified by linguistic sources
Usage & Popularity
Laertes enjoys international appeal, used in 5 different linguistic and cultural contexts including spanish, catalan, ancient Greek (Latinized), and many others. This widespread adoption reflects its universal resonance.
Laertes means "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Laértēs (Λαέρτης),” composed of two elements: “lāós (λᾱός)” (people, people assembled) plus “eírō (εἴρω)” (tie, join, fasten, string together). In turn, the name means “one who gathers the people.” Laertes was the son of Arcesius and Chalcomedusa. He was the father of Odysseus and Ctimene by his wife Anticlea, daughter of the thief Autolycus. Laertes was an Argonaut and participated in the hunt for the Calydonian boar. Laertes’s title was king of the Cephallenians, which he presumably inherited from his father, Crcesius, and grandfather Cephalus.". The name comes from lāós eírō > Laértēs. In its original form, the name derives from lāós (λᾱός) eírō (εἴρω) Laértēs (Λαέρτης). This greek name has been passed down through generations, carrying its meaning across different cultures and time periods. Parents who choose Laertes for boys often connect with the name's meaning of "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Laértēs (Λαέρτης),” composed of two elements: “lāós (λᾱός)” (people, people assembled) plus “eírō (εἴρω)” (tie, join, fasten, string together). In turn, the name means “one who gathers the people.” Laertes was the son of Arcesius and Chalcomedusa. He was the father of Odysseus and Ctimene by his wife Anticlea, daughter of the thief Autolycus. Laertes was an Argonaut and participated in the hunt for the Calydonian boar. Laertes’s title was king of the Cephallenians, which he presumably inherited from his father, Crcesius, and grandfather Cephalus." as a quality they hope to see in their child. While not the most common choice, Laertes'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 (MINOR FIGURES), reflecting its meaning in how people perceive those who carry it.
What is the origin of the name Laertes?
Laertes is a greek name. The name traces back to lāós eírō > Laértēs. The original form lāós (λᾱός) eírō (εἴρω) Laértēs (Λαέρτης) shows the name's roots in its native language. From its greek roots, Laertes spread to become common in spanish, catalan, ancient Greek (Latinized), german and other cultures. The greek meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Laértēs (Λαέρτης),” composed of two elements: “lāós (λᾱός)” (people, people assembled) plus “eírō (εἴρω)” (tie, join, fasten, string together). In turn, the name means “one who gathers the people.” Laertes was the son of Arcesius and Chalcomedusa. He was the father of Odysseus and Ctimene by his wife Anticlea, daughter of the thief Autolycus. Laertes was an Argonaut and participated in the hunt for the Calydonian boar. Laertes’s title was king of the Cephallenians, which he presumably inherited from his father, Crcesius, and grandfather Cephalus." reflects values important in the culture where this name first appeared.
Is Laertes a boy or girl name?
Laertes 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, Laertes has historically been given to boys. The meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Laértēs (Λαέρτης),” composed of two elements: “lāós (λᾱός)” (people, people assembled) plus “eírō (εἴρω)” (tie, join, fasten, string together). In turn, the name means “one who gathers the people.” Laertes was the son of Arcesius and Chalcomedusa. He was the father of Odysseus and Ctimene by his wife Anticlea, daughter of the thief Autolycus. Laertes was an Argonaut and participated in the hunt for the Calydonian boar. Laertes’s title was king of the Cephallenians, which he presumably inherited from his father, Crcesius, and grandfather Cephalus." carries well for a son, giving the name lasting appeal.
How do you pronounce Laertes?
Laertes is pronounced "/leɪˈɛr.tiz/". This pronunciation follows en language patterns. As a single-syllable name, Laertes is quick to say and easy to call out. Pronunciation may vary slightly in spanish, catalan, ancient Greek (Latinized), 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 Laertes can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis. This pronunciation has been verified and represents the standard way to say the name. The name's root lāós eírō > Laértēs influences how Laertes sounds in its original language.
How popular is the name Laertes?
Laertes is somewhat common, familiar to most people. With moderate popularity, Laertes offers familiarity without being everywhere. It's the kind of name people recognize but don't hear every day. Laertes'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 “Laértēs (Λαέρτης),” composed of two elements: “lāós (λᾱός)” (people, people assembled) plus “eírō (εἴρω)” (tie, join, fasten, string together). In turn, the name means “one who gathers the people.” Laertes was the son of Arcesius and Chalcomedusa. He was the father of Odysseus and Ctimene by his wife Anticlea, daughter of the thief Autolycus. Laertes was an Argonaut and participated in the hunt for the Calydonian boar. Laertes’s title was king of the Cephallenians, which he presumably inherited from his father, Crcesius, and grandfather Cephalus." likely influences its appeal, as parents often choose names that express values or hopes for their children. Among boys' names, Laertes holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
Where is the name Laertes commonly used?
Laertes spans multiple cultures, including spanish, catalan, ancient Greek (Latinized), and 2 other traditions. Though greek in origin, Laertes found a home in other cultures where it resonated with local naming preferences. Names that work across multiple cultures, like Laertes, often have straightforward pronunciation and positive meanings that translate well. The meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Laértēs (Λαέρτης),” composed of two elements: “lāós (λᾱός)” (people, people assembled) plus “eírō (εἴρω)” (tie, join, fasten, string together). In turn, the name means “one who gathers the people.” Laertes was the son of Arcesius and Chalcomedusa. He was the father of Odysseus and Ctimene by his wife Anticlea, daughter of the thief Autolycus. Laertes was an Argonaut and participated in the hunt for the Calydonian boar. Laertes’s title was king of the Cephallenians, which he presumably inherited from his father, Crcesius, and grandfather Cephalus." carries universal appeal, helping explain why different cultures adopted Laertes into their naming traditions. A child named Laertes 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, Laertes is given to boys, maintaining consistent gender association.
What is the cultural significance of Laertes?
Laertes carries associations with GREEK MYTHOLOGY (MINOR FIGURES). 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 “Laértēs (Λαέρτης),” composed of two elements: “lāós (λᾱός)” (people, people assembled) plus “eírō (εἴρω)” (tie, join, fasten, string together). In turn, the name means “one who gathers the people.” Laertes was the son of Arcesius and Chalcomedusa. He was the father of Odysseus and Ctimene by his wife Anticlea, daughter of the thief Autolycus. Laertes was an Argonaut and participated in the hunt for the Calydonian boar. Laertes’s title was king of the Cephallenians, which he presumably inherited from his father, Crcesius, and grandfather Cephalus." reinforces these associations, connecting the literal translation to the character traits people expect. In greek culture, where Laertes 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 Laertes sets certain expectations. Parents choosing Laertes often connect with one or more of these associations, selecting the name because it represents qualities they value or wish for their child. In spanish 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.