Odysseus: a male name of Greek origin meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “odýssomai (ὀδύσσομαι) Odysséus (Ὀδυσσεύς),” meaning “to be wroth against, hate, full of anger, wrathful".It derives from the Greek word "odýssomai > Odysséus".
Parents seeking a meaningful masculine name often discover Odysseus, drawn to its Greek heritage and beautiful significance: "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “odýssomai (ὀδύσσομαι) Odysséus (Ὀδυσσεύς),” meaning “to be wroth against, hate, full of anger, wrathful". This name offers a perfect blend of cultural depth and personal meaning, making it a timeless choice for families around the world.
Quick Facts About Odysseus
Quick facts about Odysseus
Origin
Greek
Gender
Boy name
Popularity
Uncommon
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 “odýssomai (ὀδύσσομαι) Odysséus (Ὀδυσσεύς),” meaning “to be wroth against, hate, full of anger, wrathful.” Odysseus, also known by the Roman name Ulysses, was the perhaps fictional Greek King of Ithaca and the hero of Homer’s epic poem the Odyssey. Odysseus was the husband of Penelope, father of Telemachus, and son of Laërtes and Anticlea. He is most famous for the ten eventful years he took to return home after the decade-long Trojan War and his renowned Trojan horse ploy to capture the city of Troy.
Etymology & Details
Name Root
odýssomai > Odysséus
How to Pronounce Odysseus
Odysseus is pronounced /əˈdɪs.i.əs/(Greek)
Step-by-step pronunciation guide:
Break it into syllables: Ody-sse-us
Say it like: "ODY-SSE-US"
Practice saying it naturally a few times
✓Pronunciation verified by linguistic sources
Usage & Popularity
Odysseus is predominantly used in ancient Greek (Latinized) speaking communities, where it maintains strong cultural connections and traditional significance.
ancient Greek (Latinized)
Frequently Asked Questions About Odysseus
What does the name Odysseus mean?
Odysseus means "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “odýssomai (ὀδύσσομαι) Odysséus (Ὀδυσσεύς),” meaning “to be wroth against, hate, full of anger, wrathful.” Odysseus, also known by the Roman name Ulysses, was the perhaps fictional Greek King of Ithaca and the hero of Homer’s epic poem the Odyssey. Odysseus was the husband of Penelope, father of Telemachus, and son of Laërtes and Anticlea. He is most famous for the ten eventful years he took to return home after the decade-long Trojan War and his renowned Trojan horse ploy to capture the city of Troy.". The name comes from odýssomai > Odysséus. In its original form, the name derives from odýssomai (ὀδύσσομαι) Odysséus (Ὀδυσσεύς). This greek name has been passed down through generations, carrying its meaning across different cultures and time periods. Parents who choose Odysseus for boys often connect with the name's meaning of "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “odýssomai (ὀδύσσομαι) Odysséus (Ὀδυσσεύς),” meaning “to be wroth against, hate, full of anger, wrathful.” Odysseus, also known by the Roman name Ulysses, was the perhaps fictional Greek King of Ithaca and the hero of Homer’s epic poem the Odyssey. Odysseus was the husband of Penelope, father of Telemachus, and son of Laërtes and Anticlea. He is most famous for the ten eventful years he took to return home after the decade-long Trojan War and his renowned Trojan horse ploy to capture the city of Troy." as a quality they hope to see in their child. Odysseus offers a distinctive option for parents who want a name with clear meaning that stands apart from more common choices. The name is associated with qualities like GREEK MYTHOLOGY (MINOR FIGURES) / LATIN (ROMAN MYTHOLOGY), reflecting its meaning in how people perceive those who carry it.
What is the origin of the name Odysseus?
Odysseus is a greek name. The name traces back to odýssomai > Odysséus. The original form odýssomai (ὀδύσσομαι) Odysséus (Ὀδυσσεύς) shows the name's roots in its native language. The name remains closely tied to ancient Greek (Latinized) naming traditions while occasionally appearing in other cultures. The greek meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “odýssomai (ὀδύσσομαι) Odysséus (Ὀδυσσεύς),” meaning “to be wroth against, hate, full of anger, wrathful.” Odysseus, also known by the Roman name Ulysses, was the perhaps fictional Greek King of Ithaca and the hero of Homer’s epic poem the Odyssey. Odysseus was the husband of Penelope, father of Telemachus, and son of Laërtes and Anticlea. He is most famous for the ten eventful years he took to return home after the decade-long Trojan War and his renowned Trojan horse ploy to capture the city of Troy." reflects values important in the culture where this name first appeared.
Is Odysseus a boy or girl name?
Odysseus 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, Odysseus has historically been given to boys. The meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “odýssomai (ὀδύσσομαι) Odysséus (Ὀδυσσεύς),” meaning “to be wroth against, hate, full of anger, wrathful.” Odysseus, also known by the Roman name Ulysses, was the perhaps fictional Greek King of Ithaca and the hero of Homer’s epic poem the Odyssey. Odysseus was the husband of Penelope, father of Telemachus, and son of Laërtes and Anticlea. He is most famous for the ten eventful years he took to return home after the decade-long Trojan War and his renowned Trojan horse ploy to capture the city of Troy." carries well for a son, giving the name lasting appeal.
How do you pronounce Odysseus?
Odysseus is pronounced "/əˈdɪs.i.əs/". This pronunciation follows el language patterns. As a single-syllable name, Odysseus is quick to say and easy to call out. If you're unfamiliar with greek names, listening to a native speaker say Odysseus can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis. The name's root odýssomai > Odysséus influences how Odysseus sounds in its original language.
How popular is the name Odysseus?
Odysseus is less common but not rare. As a less common choice, Odysseus gives a child a name that stands out. Most people will encounter it rarely, making it memorable when they do. Odysseus'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 “odýssomai (ὀδύσσομαι) Odysséus (Ὀδυσσεύς),” meaning “to be wroth against, hate, full of anger, wrathful.” Odysseus, also known by the Roman name Ulysses, was the perhaps fictional Greek King of Ithaca and the hero of Homer’s epic poem the Odyssey. Odysseus was the husband of Penelope, father of Telemachus, and son of Laërtes and Anticlea. He is most famous for the ten eventful years he took to return home after the decade-long Trojan War and his renowned Trojan horse ploy to capture the city of Troy." likely influences its appeal, as parents often choose names that express values or hopes for their children. Among boys' names, Odysseus holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
Where is the name Odysseus commonly used?
Odysseus is used primarily in ancient Greek (Latinized) naming traditions. Though greek in origin, Odysseus found a home in other cultures where it resonated with local naming preferences. The meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “odýssomai (ὀδύσσομαι) Odysséus (Ὀδυσσεύς),” meaning “to be wroth against, hate, full of anger, wrathful.” Odysseus, also known by the Roman name Ulysses, was the perhaps fictional Greek King of Ithaca and the hero of Homer’s epic poem the Odyssey. Odysseus was the husband of Penelope, father of Telemachus, and son of Laërtes and Anticlea. He is most famous for the ten eventful years he took to return home after the decade-long Trojan War and his renowned Trojan horse ploy to capture the city of Troy." carries universal appeal, helping explain why different cultures adopted Odysseus into their naming traditions. A child named Odysseus 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, Odysseus is given to boys, maintaining consistent gender association.
What is the cultural significance of Odysseus?
Odysseus carries associations with GREEK MYTHOLOGY (MINOR FIGURES) / LATIN (ROMAN 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 “odýssomai (ὀδύσσομαι) Odysséus (Ὀδυσσεύς),” meaning “to be wroth against, hate, full of anger, wrathful.” Odysseus, also known by the Roman name Ulysses, was the perhaps fictional Greek King of Ithaca and the hero of Homer’s epic poem the Odyssey. Odysseus was the husband of Penelope, father of Telemachus, and son of Laërtes and Anticlea. He is most famous for the ten eventful years he took to return home after the decade-long Trojan War and his renowned Trojan horse ploy to capture the city of Troy." reinforces these associations, connecting the literal translation to the character traits people expect. In greek culture, where Odysseus 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 Odysseus sets certain expectations. Parents choosing Odysseus 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.