All about the name

Atreus

Male

« Atreus, derived from the Greek word 'Aitréos' meaning "lawless" or "formless", is a rare male name with significant associations in Greek mythology as the king of Mycenae and patriarch of the cursed House of Atreus. »

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Meaning, origin, history

Atreus is a unique and intriguing male given name of Greek origin. It is derived from the Greek word 'Aitréos', which means "lawless" or "formless". In Greek mythology, Atreus was the king of Mycenae, a city in ancient Greece. He was the son of Pelops, a legendary king of Elis, and his wife Hippodamia. The name Atreus is most famously associated with the House of Atreus, a royal family in Greek mythology whose members were cursed by the gods to experience great tragedy. This curse played out through several generations of the family, including Atreus himself, his brother Thyestes, and their children Agamemnon and Menelaus. Despite its associations with tragic fate, the name Atreus has a powerful and majestic ring to it. It is a unique choice for parents looking for an uncommon yet significant name for their son. While it may not be as commonly used today as some other Greek names, such as Alexander or Achilles, it still holds historical and mythological importance. In terms of popularity, the name Atreus has never been particularly common. According to data from the Social Security Administration in the United States, it has never appeared in the top 1000 baby boy names since records began in 1879. However, this rarity can make the name even more appealing for parents seeking a distinctive and meaningful name for their child. In conclusion, Atreus is a unique and powerful male given name of Greek origin, with a rich history and significant associations within Greek mythology. While it may not be a commonly used name today, its historical and mythological importance makes it an intriguing choice for parents looking for an uncommon yet meaningful name for their son.

In numbers

Popularity of the name Atreus since 1880

Total births
2,394
Total since 1880
Peak year
2023
670 births
in 2023
670
Recent births (5 years)
5-year trend
+12374%
vs previous 5 years