Apostolis

Apostolis is a variant of the Greek given name Apostolos, derived from the Greek word apóstolos (Απόστολος) meaning "messenger, apostle." The name is composed of the prefix apo ("from") and stellein ("to send"), referring to a person sent on a mission. In a Christian context, an apostle specifically refers to one of the original disciples sent by Jesus to spread his message.

Etymology and Historical Context

The word apostolos appears in the Greek translation of the Hebrew Bible (Septuagint) and the New Testament. In the Gospels, Jesus appoints twelve Apostles (e.g., Matthew 10:2–4). The adoption of Apostolos as a personal name became common among Christians as a devotional name, honoring these central figures. Apostolis is a contracted colloquial form, akin to diminutives used in everyday Greek speech.

Notable Bearers

Given its popularity, Apostolis appears across diverse fields.

• Apostolis Anthimos (born 1954), Polish jazz/rock guitarist and drummer.
• Apostolis Nikolaidis, Greek weightlifter and Olympian.
• Apostolis Batsos, Greek footballer (superleague).

Additionally, many bearers are listed under the un-diacritical form Apostolos, such as Archbishop Apostolos of Athens (1924) and several saints bearing the name (e.g., Saint Apostolos).

Related Names

Related names include:

• Apostol - a Romanian form.
• Thenes and Tolis - diminutives of Apostolos in very little child, separate-name categories.

• Meaning: "messenger, apostle"
• Origin: Greek
• Type: Given name (masculine)
• Usage regions: Greece