Lamia

Girl Name
Origin:greek
Pronunciation:/ˈlæ.mi.ə/

Lamia: a female name of Greek origin meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “lamurós (λαμυρός) Lámia (Λᾰìμῐᾰ),” meaning “full of abysses, gluttonous, greedy, wanton, impudent, coquettish". It derives from the Greek word "lamurós > Lámia".

Lamia has maintained its appeal as a feminine 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 “lamurós (λαμυρός) Lámia (Λᾰìμῐᾰ),” meaning “full of abysses, gluttonous, greedy, wanton, impudent, coquettish" and its cultural richness. This name bridges traditional heritage with contemporary naming trends.

Quick Facts About Lamia

Quick facts about Lamia
OriginGreek
GenderGirl name
PopularityModerately 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 “lamurós (λαμυρός) Lámia (Λᾰìμῐᾰ),” meaning “full of abysses, gluttonous, greedy, wanton, impudent, coquettish.” Lamia is the name of some female figures of ancient Greek history. One of them was the eponymous queen of the city of Lamia. Others were famous ether of Athens, such as the lover of Demetrius, king of Macedonia. According to Greek mythology, the Lamia were partly human and partly animal female figures, kidnappers of children, or seductive ghosts who lured young men and then fed on their blood and flesh.

Etymology & Details

Name Root

lamurós > Lámia

How to Pronounce Lamia

Lamia is pronounced /ˈlæ.mi.ə/(Greek)

Step-by-step pronunciation guide:

  1. Break it into syllables: Lam-ia
  2. Say it like: "LAM-IA"
  3. Practice saying it naturally a few times

Pronunciation verified by linguistic sources

Usage & Popularity

Lamia is predominantly used in ancient Germanic (Latinized) speaking communities, where it maintains strong cultural connections and traditional significance.

ancient Germanic (Latinized)
Frequently Asked Questions About Lamia
What does the name Lamia mean?
Lamia means "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “lamurós (λαμυρός) Lámia (Λᾰìμῐᾰ),” meaning “full of abysses, gluttonous, greedy, wanton, impudent, coquettish.” Lamia is the name of some female figures of ancient Greek history. One of them was the eponymous queen of the city of Lamia. Others were famous ether of Athens, such as the lover of Demetrius, king of Macedonia. According to Greek mythology, the Lamia were partly human and partly animal female figures, kidnappers of children, or seductive ghosts who lured young men and then fed on their blood and flesh.". The name comes from lamurós > Lámia. In its original form, the name derives from lamurós (λαμυρός) Lámia (Λᾰìμῐᾰ). This greek name has been passed down through generations, carrying its meaning across different cultures and time periods. Parents who choose Lamia for girls often connect with the name's meaning of "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “lamurós (λαμυρός) Lámia (Λᾰìμῐᾰ),” meaning “full of abysses, gluttonous, greedy, wanton, impudent, coquettish.” Lamia is the name of some female figures of ancient Greek history. One of them was the eponymous queen of the city of Lamia. Others were famous ether of Athens, such as the lover of Demetrius, king of Macedonia. According to Greek mythology, the Lamia were partly human and partly animal female figures, kidnappers of children, or seductive ghosts who lured young men and then fed on their blood and flesh." as a quality they hope to see in their child. While not the most common choice, Lamia'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 Lamia?
Lamia is a greek name. The name traces back to lamurós > Lámia. The original form lamurós (λαμυρός) Lámia (Λᾰìμῐᾰ) shows the name's roots in its native language. The name remains closely tied to ancient Germanic (Latinized) naming traditions while occasionally appearing in other cultures. The greek meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “lamurós (λαμυρός) Lámia (Λᾰìμῐᾰ),” meaning “full of abysses, gluttonous, greedy, wanton, impudent, coquettish.” Lamia is the name of some female figures of ancient Greek history. One of them was the eponymous queen of the city of Lamia. Others were famous ether of Athens, such as the lover of Demetrius, king of Macedonia. According to Greek mythology, the Lamia were partly human and partly animal female figures, kidnappers of children, or seductive ghosts who lured young men and then fed on their blood and flesh." reflects values important in the culture where this name first appeared.
Is Lamia a boy or girl name?
Lamia is a girl's name. This traditionally feminine name has been chosen by parents for daughters across many cultures and time periods. In greek tradition, Lamia has historically been given to girls. The meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “lamurós (λαμυρός) Lámia (Λᾰìμῐᾰ),” meaning “full of abysses, gluttonous, greedy, wanton, impudent, coquettish.” Lamia is the name of some female figures of ancient Greek history. One of them was the eponymous queen of the city of Lamia. Others were famous ether of Athens, such as the lover of Demetrius, king of Macedonia. According to Greek mythology, the Lamia were partly human and partly animal female figures, kidnappers of children, or seductive ghosts who lured young men and then fed on their blood and flesh." carries well for a daughter, giving the name lasting appeal.
How do you pronounce Lamia?
Lamia is pronounced "/ˈlæ.mi.ə/". This pronunciation follows el language patterns. As a single-syllable name, Lamia is quick to say and easy to call out. If you're unfamiliar with greek names, listening to a native speaker say Lamia can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis. The name's root lamurós > Lámia influences how Lamia sounds in its original language.
How popular is the name Lamia?
Lamia is somewhat common, familiar to most people. With moderate popularity, Lamia offers familiarity without being everywhere. It's the kind of name people recognize but don't hear every day. Lamia'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 “lamurós (λαμυρός) Lámia (Λᾰìμῐᾰ),” meaning “full of abysses, gluttonous, greedy, wanton, impudent, coquettish.” Lamia is the name of some female figures of ancient Greek history. One of them was the eponymous queen of the city of Lamia. Others were famous ether of Athens, such as the lover of Demetrius, king of Macedonia. According to Greek mythology, the Lamia were partly human and partly animal female figures, kidnappers of children, or seductive ghosts who lured young men and then fed on their blood and flesh." likely influences its appeal, as parents often choose names that express values or hopes for their children. Among girls' names, Lamia holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
Where is the name Lamia commonly used?
Lamia is used primarily in ancient Germanic (Latinized) naming traditions. Though greek in origin, Lamia found a home in other cultures where it resonated with local naming preferences. The meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “lamurós (λαμυρός) Lámia (Λᾰìμῐᾰ),” meaning “full of abysses, gluttonous, greedy, wanton, impudent, coquettish.” Lamia is the name of some female figures of ancient Greek history. One of them was the eponymous queen of the city of Lamia. Others were famous ether of Athens, such as the lover of Demetrius, king of Macedonia. According to Greek mythology, the Lamia were partly human and partly animal female figures, kidnappers of children, or seductive ghosts who lured young men and then fed on their blood and flesh." carries universal appeal, helping explain why different cultures adopted Lamia into their naming traditions. A child named Lamia 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, Lamia is given to girls, maintaining consistent gender association.
What is the cultural significance of Lamia?
Lamia 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 “lamurós (λαμυρός) Lámia (Λᾰìμῐᾰ),” meaning “full of abysses, gluttonous, greedy, wanton, impudent, coquettish.” Lamia is the name of some female figures of ancient Greek history. One of them was the eponymous queen of the city of Lamia. Others were famous ether of Athens, such as the lover of Demetrius, king of Macedonia. According to Greek mythology, the Lamia were partly human and partly animal female figures, kidnappers of children, or seductive ghosts who lured young men and then fed on their blood and flesh." reinforces these associations, connecting the literal translation to the character traits people expect. In greek culture, where Lamia 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 Lamia sets certain expectations. Parents choosing Lamia 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 Germanic (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.

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