Evander 1 is a masculine given name of Greek and Roman origin. It is a variant of Evandrus, the Latin form of the Greek name Εὔανδρος (Euandros), which means "good of man". This meaning is derived from the Greek elements eu ("good") and aner ("man"), the latter with the genitive form andros. The name is primarily known from Roman mythology, where Evander was a hero of Arcadian origin who lived before the Trojan War. According to legend, he migrated from Greece to Italy and founded the city of Pallantium on the future site of Rome, bringing with him Greek culture and religious practices, including the festival of the Lupercalia. Later Roman writers like Virgil portrayed him as a wise and peaceful king who aided Aeneas in the Aeneid. Etymology and Related Forms The original Greek form Euandros appears in Greek mythology, though less prominently than the Romanized version. The Latinized form Evandrus is also recorded. In modern languages, the name has been adopted as Evandro in Portuguese and Italian. Despite its ancient roots, the name Evander has seen occasional use in English-speaking countries, sometimes influenced by the classical revival or by the fame of historical figures like the Scottish philosopher Evander MacIver or the American singer Evander Holyfield. Cultural Significance In Roman mythology, Evander is remembered as a civilizing hero who introduced writing and several religious rites to early Italy. His story underpins the mythohistory of Rome's foundation, linking the city to the heroic age of Greece. The name thus carries connotations of intelligence, hospitality, and cultural transmission. Meaning: good of man (from Greek eu + aner) Origin: Greek, adopted into Latin Type: First name (masculine) Usage Regions: Greek and Roman classical contexts, modern usage primarily in English, Portuguese, and Italian