Taras

Boy Name
Origin:greek
Pronunciation:/ˈtɑː.rəs/

Taras: a male name of Greek origin meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Tárās (Τᾰ́ρᾱς) Tarásios (Ταράσιος), probably from Illyrian “*darandos,” meaning “oak". It derives from the Greek word "(*darandos) > Táras > Tarásios".

Parents seeking a meaningful masculine name often discover Taras, drawn to its Greek heritage and beautiful significance: "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Tárās (Τᾰ́ρᾱς) Tarásios (Ταράσιος), probably from Illyrian “*darandos,” meaning “oak". 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 Taras

Quick facts about Taras
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 “Tárās (Τᾰ́ρᾱς) Tarásios (Ταράσιος), probably from Illyrian “*darandos,” meaning “oak.” Taras was, according to Greek mythology, the son of Poseidon and the nymph Satyrion. Taras is the eponymous founder of the Greek colony of Taras (Tarentum, modern Taranto), in Magna Graecia. Note that a harbor close by Taranto is still called Torre Saturo (derived from Satyrion). In Torre Saturo, almost 15 km south of Taranto, Spartan colonists settled their first colony in the Taranto zone. Saint Tarásios was the Ecumenical Patriarch of Constantinople from 25 December 784 until his death on 25 February 806. Tarásios was born and raised in the city of Constantinople. A son of a high-ranking judge, Tarásios, was related to prominent families, including that of the later Patriarch Photios the Great.

Etymology & Details

Name Root

(*darandos) > Táras > Tarásios

Other Scripts

Russian / Ukrainian (Тарас)

How to Pronounce Taras

Taras is pronounced /ˈtɑː.rəs/(Greek)

Step-by-step pronunciation guide:

  1. Break it into syllables: Tar-as
  2. Say it like: "TAR-AS"
  3. Practice saying it naturally a few times

Usage & Popularity

Taras enjoys international appeal, used in 6 different linguistic and cultural contexts including ukrainian, russian, italian, and many others. This widespread adoption reflects its universal resonance.

ukrainianrussianitalianturkishlithuaniangerman
Frequently Asked Questions About Taras
What does the name Taras mean?
Taras means "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Tárās (Τᾰ́ρᾱς) Tarásios (Ταράσιος), probably from Illyrian “*darandos,” meaning “oak.” Taras was, according to Greek mythology, the son of Poseidon and the nymph Satyrion. Taras is the eponymous founder of the Greek colony of Taras (Tarentum, modern Taranto), in Magna Graecia. Note that a harbor close by Taranto is still called Torre Saturo (derived from Satyrion). In Torre Saturo, almost 15 km south of Taranto, Spartan colonists settled their first colony in the Taranto zone. Saint Tarásios was the Ecumenical Patriarch of Constantinople from 25 December 784 until his death on 25 February 806. Tarásios was born and raised in the city of Constantinople. A son of a high-ranking judge, Tarásios, was related to prominent families, including that of the later Patriarch Photios the Great.". The name comes from (*darandos) > Táras > Tarásios. In its original form, the name derives from táras (τάρας) Tarásios (Ταράσιος). This greek name has been passed down through generations, carrying its meaning across different cultures and time periods. Parents who choose Taras for boys often connect with the name's meaning of "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Tárās (Τᾰ́ρᾱς) Tarásios (Ταράσιος), probably from Illyrian “*darandos,” meaning “oak.” Taras was, according to Greek mythology, the son of Poseidon and the nymph Satyrion. Taras is the eponymous founder of the Greek colony of Taras (Tarentum, modern Taranto), in Magna Graecia. Note that a harbor close by Taranto is still called Torre Saturo (derived from Satyrion). In Torre Saturo, almost 15 km south of Taranto, Spartan colonists settled their first colony in the Taranto zone. Saint Tarásios was the Ecumenical Patriarch of Constantinople from 25 December 784 until his death on 25 February 806. Tarásios was born and raised in the city of Constantinople. A son of a high-ranking judge, Tarásios, was related to prominent families, including that of the later Patriarch Photios the Great." as a quality they hope to see in their child. While not the most common choice, Taras'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 Taras?
Taras is a greek name. The name traces back to (*darandos) > Táras > Tarásios. The original form táras (τάρας) Tarásios (Ταράσιος) shows the name's roots in its native language. In its native script, Taras is written as Russian / Ukrainian (Тарас). From its greek roots, Taras spread to become common in ukrainian, russian, italian, turkish and other cultures. The greek meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Tárās (Τᾰ́ρᾱς) Tarásios (Ταράσιος), probably from Illyrian “*darandos,” meaning “oak.” Taras was, according to Greek mythology, the son of Poseidon and the nymph Satyrion. Taras is the eponymous founder of the Greek colony of Taras (Tarentum, modern Taranto), in Magna Graecia. Note that a harbor close by Taranto is still called Torre Saturo (derived from Satyrion). In Torre Saturo, almost 15 km south of Taranto, Spartan colonists settled their first colony in the Taranto zone. Saint Tarásios was the Ecumenical Patriarch of Constantinople from 25 December 784 until his death on 25 February 806. Tarásios was born and raised in the city of Constantinople. A son of a high-ranking judge, Tarásios, was related to prominent families, including that of the later Patriarch Photios the Great." reflects values important in the culture where this name first appeared.
Is Taras a boy or girl name?
Taras 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, Taras has historically been given to boys. The meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Tárās (Τᾰ́ρᾱς) Tarásios (Ταράσιος), probably from Illyrian “*darandos,” meaning “oak.” Taras was, according to Greek mythology, the son of Poseidon and the nymph Satyrion. Taras is the eponymous founder of the Greek colony of Taras (Tarentum, modern Taranto), in Magna Graecia. Note that a harbor close by Taranto is still called Torre Saturo (derived from Satyrion). In Torre Saturo, almost 15 km south of Taranto, Spartan colonists settled their first colony in the Taranto zone. Saint Tarásios was the Ecumenical Patriarch of Constantinople from 25 December 784 until his death on 25 February 806. Tarásios was born and raised in the city of Constantinople. A son of a high-ranking judge, Tarásios, was related to prominent families, including that of the later Patriarch Photios the Great." carries well for a son, giving the name lasting appeal.
How do you pronounce Taras?
Taras is pronounced "/ˈtɑː.rəs/". This pronunciation follows el language patterns. In its original script, the name appears as Russian / Ukrainian (Тарас), which helps explain how native speakers pronounce it. As a single-syllable name, Taras is quick to say and easy to call out. Pronunciation may vary slightly in ukrainian, russian, italian, 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 Taras can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis. The name's root (*darandos) > Táras > Tarásios influences how Taras sounds in its original language.
How popular is the name Taras?
Taras is somewhat common, familiar to most people. With moderate popularity, Taras offers familiarity without being everywhere. It's the kind of name people recognize but don't hear every day. Taras'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 “Tárās (Τᾰ́ρᾱς) Tarásios (Ταράσιος), probably from Illyrian “*darandos,” meaning “oak.” Taras was, according to Greek mythology, the son of Poseidon and the nymph Satyrion. Taras is the eponymous founder of the Greek colony of Taras (Tarentum, modern Taranto), in Magna Graecia. Note that a harbor close by Taranto is still called Torre Saturo (derived from Satyrion). In Torre Saturo, almost 15 km south of Taranto, Spartan colonists settled their first colony in the Taranto zone. Saint Tarásios was the Ecumenical Patriarch of Constantinople from 25 December 784 until his death on 25 February 806. Tarásios was born and raised in the city of Constantinople. A son of a high-ranking judge, Tarásios, was related to prominent families, including that of the later Patriarch Photios the Great." likely influences its appeal, as parents often choose names that express values or hopes for their children. Among boys' names, Taras holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
Where is the name Taras commonly used?
Taras spans multiple cultures, including ukrainian, russian, italian, and 3 other traditions. Though greek in origin, Taras found a home in other cultures where it resonated with local naming preferences. Names that work across multiple cultures, like Taras, often have straightforward pronunciation and positive meanings that translate well. The meaning "This name derives from the Ancient Greek “Tárās (Τᾰ́ρᾱς) Tarásios (Ταράσιος), probably from Illyrian “*darandos,” meaning “oak.” Taras was, according to Greek mythology, the son of Poseidon and the nymph Satyrion. Taras is the eponymous founder of the Greek colony of Taras (Tarentum, modern Taranto), in Magna Graecia. Note that a harbor close by Taranto is still called Torre Saturo (derived from Satyrion). In Torre Saturo, almost 15 km south of Taranto, Spartan colonists settled their first colony in the Taranto zone. Saint Tarásios was the Ecumenical Patriarch of Constantinople from 25 December 784 until his death on 25 February 806. Tarásios was born and raised in the city of Constantinople. A son of a high-ranking judge, Tarásios, was related to prominent families, including that of the later Patriarch Photios the Great." carries universal appeal, helping explain why different cultures adopted Taras into their naming traditions. A child named Taras 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, Taras is given to boys, maintaining consistent gender association.
What is the cultural significance of Taras?
Taras 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 “Tárās (Τᾰ́ρᾱς) Tarásios (Ταράσιος), probably from Illyrian “*darandos,” meaning “oak.” Taras was, according to Greek mythology, the son of Poseidon and the nymph Satyrion. Taras is the eponymous founder of the Greek colony of Taras (Tarentum, modern Taranto), in Magna Graecia. Note that a harbor close by Taranto is still called Torre Saturo (derived from Satyrion). In Torre Saturo, almost 15 km south of Taranto, Spartan colonists settled their first colony in the Taranto zone. Saint Tarásios was the Ecumenical Patriarch of Constantinople from 25 December 784 until his death on 25 February 806. Tarásios was born and raised in the city of Constantinople. A son of a high-ranking judge, Tarásios, was related to prominent families, including that of the later Patriarch Photios the Great." reinforces these associations, connecting the literal translation to the character traits people expect. In greek culture, where Taras 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 Taras sets certain expectations. Parents choosing Taras often connect with one or more of these associations, selecting the name because it represents qualities they value or wish for their child. In ukrainian 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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