Meaning & History
Periklis is the modern Greek form of Pericles, a name that has been borne for centuries in the Hellenic world. While the original ancient Greek version is Perikles, Periklis represents the standard modern transliteration and usage in Greece today.
Etymology
The name originates from the ancient Greek name Περικλῆς (Perikles), which is composed of the elements περί (peri), meaning "around, exceedingly" or "very", and κλέος (kleos), meaning "glory". Thus, Perikles (and its modern form Periklis) carries the meaning "exceedingly glorious" or "surrounded by glory".
Historical Significance
The most famous bearer of the name is Pericles (c. 495–429 BC), the prominent and influential statesman, orator, and general of Athens during its Golden Age. Under his leadership, Athens reached the height of its power and cultural achievement, including the construction of the Parthenon. The name became synonymous with democratic leadership and cultural flourishing in classical Greece.
Cultural and Modern Usage
In modern Greece, Periklis is a standard given name, not exceedingly common but actively used. The name also appears in literature, most notably as the title character in Shakespeare's play Pericles, Prince of Tyre (c. 1608), which popularized the name in the English-speaking world, albeit in its Latinized form.
Related Forms
Direct cognates include the ancient Greek Perikles and the Latinized Pericles. Other spellings are uncommon.
- Meaning: Exceedingly glorious
- Origin: Greek
- Type: First name
- Usage: Greece