Pancras

Boy Name
Origin:greek
Pronunciation:/ˈpæŋkrəs/

Pancras: a male name of Greek origin meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Pankrátios (Παγκράτιος),” composed of two elements: “pân (πᾶν)” (always, all, every, each, whole) plus “krátos ‎(κρᾰ́τος)” (might, strength, dominion, power)". It derives from the Greek word "pân krátos > Pankrátios".

Pancras is a masculine name that means "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Pankrátios (Παγκράτιος),” composed of two elements: “pân (πᾶν)” (always, all, every, each, whole) plus “krátos ‎(κρᾰ́τος)” (might, strength, dominion, power)". Its Greek origins reflect deep cultural values and traditions that have been passed down through generations. Parents choosing this name often appreciate its profound significance and timeless appeal.

Quick Facts About Pancras

Quick facts about Pancras
OriginGreek
GenderBoy 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 “Pankrátios (Παγκράτιος),” composed of two elements: “pân (πᾶν)” (always, all, every, each, whole) plus “krátos ‎(κρᾰ́τος)” (might, strength, dominion, power). In turn, the name means “all power, very powerful, omnipotent.” It was originally an epithet of Zeus. Saint Pancras or Pancratius (289–304) was a young Christian who was martyred at the age of fourteen in Rome during Diocletian's reign and is venerated as a saint by the Catholic Church and the Orthodox Church. Saint Pancras is one of the so-called saints of ice, with St. Servatius, San Mamerto, and St. Boniface of Tarsus. Pankration was a martial art introduced into the Greek Olympic Games in 648 BC and founded as a blend of boxing and wrestling but with almost no rules save disallowing biting and gouging of the opponent’s eyes.

Etymology & Details

Name Root

pân krátos > Pankrátios

How to Pronounce Pancras

Pancras is pronounced /ˈpæŋkrəs/(English)

Step-by-step pronunciation guide:

  1. Break it into syllables: Pan-cra-s
  2. Say it like: "PANGKROOHS"
  3. Practice saying it naturally a few times

Pronunciation verified by linguistic sources

Usage & Popularity

Pancras is predominantly used in english speaking communities, where it maintains strong cultural connections and traditional significance.

english
Frequently Asked Questions About Pancras
What does the name Pancras mean?
Pancras means "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Pankrátios (Παγκράτιος),” composed of two elements: “pân (πᾶν)” (always, all, every, each, whole) plus “krátos ‎(κρᾰ́τος)” (might, strength, dominion, power). In turn, the name means “all power, very powerful, omnipotent.” It was originally an epithet of Zeus. Saint Pancras or Pancratius (289–304) was a young Christian who was martyred at the age of fourteen in Rome during Diocletian's reign and is venerated as a saint by the Catholic Church and the Orthodox Church. Saint Pancras is one of the so-called saints of ice, with St. Servatius, San Mamerto, and St. Boniface of Tarsus. Pankration was a martial art introduced into the Greek Olympic Games in 648 BC and founded as a blend of boxing and wrestling but with almost no rules save disallowing biting and gouging of the opponent’s eyes.". The name comes from pân krátos > Pankrátios. In its original form, the name derives from pân (πᾶν) krátos ‎(κρᾰ́τος) Pankrátios (Παγκράτιος). This greek name has been passed down through generations, carrying its meaning across different cultures and time periods. Parents who choose Pancras for boys often connect with the name's meaning of "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Pankrátios (Παγκράτιος),” composed of two elements: “pân (πᾶν)” (always, all, every, each, whole) plus “krátos ‎(κρᾰ́τος)” (might, strength, dominion, power). In turn, the name means “all power, very powerful, omnipotent.” It was originally an epithet of Zeus. Saint Pancras or Pancratius (289–304) was a young Christian who was martyred at the age of fourteen in Rome during Diocletian's reign and is venerated as a saint by the Catholic Church and the Orthodox Church. Saint Pancras is one of the so-called saints of ice, with St. Servatius, San Mamerto, and St. Boniface of Tarsus. Pankration was a martial art introduced into the Greek Olympic Games in 648 BC and founded as a blend of boxing and wrestling but with almost no rules save disallowing biting and gouging of the opponent’s eyes." as a quality they hope to see in their child. While not the most common choice, Pancras's meaningful roots have given it staying power among parents looking for a name with substance.
What is the origin of the name Pancras?
Pancras is a greek name. The name traces back to pân krátos > Pankrátios. The original form pân (πᾶν) krátos ‎(κρᾰ́τος) Pankrátios (Παγκράτιος) shows the name's roots in its native language. The name remains closely tied to english naming traditions while occasionally appearing in other cultures. The greek meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Pankrátios (Παγκράτιος),” composed of two elements: “pân (πᾶν)” (always, all, every, each, whole) plus “krátos ‎(κρᾰ́τος)” (might, strength, dominion, power). In turn, the name means “all power, very powerful, omnipotent.” It was originally an epithet of Zeus. Saint Pancras or Pancratius (289–304) was a young Christian who was martyred at the age of fourteen in Rome during Diocletian's reign and is venerated as a saint by the Catholic Church and the Orthodox Church. Saint Pancras is one of the so-called saints of ice, with St. Servatius, San Mamerto, and St. Boniface of Tarsus. Pankration was a martial art introduced into the Greek Olympic Games in 648 BC and founded as a blend of boxing and wrestling but with almost no rules save disallowing biting and gouging of the opponent’s eyes." reflects values important in the culture where this name first appeared.
Is Pancras a boy or girl name?
Pancras 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, Pancras has historically been given to boys. The meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Pankrátios (Παγκράτιος),” composed of two elements: “pân (πᾶν)” (always, all, every, each, whole) plus “krátos ‎(κρᾰ́τος)” (might, strength, dominion, power). In turn, the name means “all power, very powerful, omnipotent.” It was originally an epithet of Zeus. Saint Pancras or Pancratius (289–304) was a young Christian who was martyred at the age of fourteen in Rome during Diocletian's reign and is venerated as a saint by the Catholic Church and the Orthodox Church. Saint Pancras is one of the so-called saints of ice, with St. Servatius, San Mamerto, and St. Boniface of Tarsus. Pankration was a martial art introduced into the Greek Olympic Games in 648 BC and founded as a blend of boxing and wrestling but with almost no rules save disallowing biting and gouging of the opponent’s eyes." carries well for a son, giving the name lasting appeal.
How do you pronounce Pancras?
Pancras is pronounced "/ˈpæŋkrəs/". This pronunciation follows en language patterns. As a single-syllable name, Pancras is quick to say and easy to call out. If you're unfamiliar with greek names, listening to a native speaker say Pancras can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis. The name's root pân krátos > Pankrátios influences how Pancras sounds in its original language.
How popular is the name Pancras?
Pancras is somewhat common, familiar to most people. With moderate popularity, Pancras offers familiarity without being everywhere. It's the kind of name people recognize but don't hear every day. Pancras'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 “Pankrátios (Παγκράτιος),” composed of two elements: “pân (πᾶν)” (always, all, every, each, whole) plus “krátos ‎(κρᾰ́τος)” (might, strength, dominion, power). In turn, the name means “all power, very powerful, omnipotent.” It was originally an epithet of Zeus. Saint Pancras or Pancratius (289–304) was a young Christian who was martyred at the age of fourteen in Rome during Diocletian's reign and is venerated as a saint by the Catholic Church and the Orthodox Church. Saint Pancras is one of the so-called saints of ice, with St. Servatius, San Mamerto, and St. Boniface of Tarsus. Pankration was a martial art introduced into the Greek Olympic Games in 648 BC and founded as a blend of boxing and wrestling but with almost no rules save disallowing biting and gouging of the opponent’s eyes." likely influences its appeal, as parents often choose names that express values or hopes for their children. Among boys' names, Pancras holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
Where is the name Pancras commonly used?
Pancras is used primarily in english naming traditions. Though greek in origin, Pancras found a home in other cultures where it resonated with local naming preferences. The meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Pankrátios (Παγκράτιος),” composed of two elements: “pân (πᾶν)” (always, all, every, each, whole) plus “krátos ‎(κρᾰ́τος)” (might, strength, dominion, power). In turn, the name means “all power, very powerful, omnipotent.” It was originally an epithet of Zeus. Saint Pancras or Pancratius (289–304) was a young Christian who was martyred at the age of fourteen in Rome during Diocletian's reign and is venerated as a saint by the Catholic Church and the Orthodox Church. Saint Pancras is one of the so-called saints of ice, with St. Servatius, San Mamerto, and St. Boniface of Tarsus. Pankration was a martial art introduced into the Greek Olympic Games in 648 BC and founded as a blend of boxing and wrestling but with almost no rules save disallowing biting and gouging of the opponent’s eyes." carries universal appeal, helping explain why different cultures adopted Pancras into their naming traditions. A child named Pancras 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, Pancras 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.

Similar Names

Explore More Names