Clytius

Clytius is the Latinized form of Klytios, a name derived from the Greek κλυτός (klytos) meaning "famous, noble". In Greek mythology, this name is borne by several minor characters, most notably a Giant slain by Hecate during the Gigantomachy, and an Argonaut (son of Eurytus) whose bow was used by Heracles.

Etymology

The Greek root klytos is cognate with words like κλέος (kleos, "fame") and appears in many ancient Greek names (e.g., Perikles, Iphigeneia's lamented patron).

Notable Bearers in Mythology

According to Apollodorus, the Giant Clytius was destroyed by fire-wielding Hekate during the war of the Olympian gods and Giants. Another Clytius, an Oechalian prince and father of Eurytus, joined the Argonauts. Still others appear as a son of the exiled Naubolus, a compatriot of theseus' adversary Phineus, or a proud Ionophorbis of Attica slain by Theseus. This density of distinct figures underscores the name's currency as a stock epic epithet.

Cultural Significance

Like its feminine counterparts Clytia and Klytië, the masculine Clytius belongs to a class of Greek names evoking fame and renown. Postclassical use has been minimal, but the variants give it periodic scholarly and literary resurgence.

• Meaning: Famous, noble (from Greek klytos)
• Origin: Greek, Latinized
• Type: Mythology/Personal name
• Usage Regions: Ancient Greece, Western classical tradition