Agathocles
Agathocles Name Meaning, Origin & Popularity
Meaning of Agathocles: Agathocles is the Latinized form of the Greek compound masculine name Agathokles (Ἀγαθοκλῆς), composed of agathos (good, noble, virtuous) and kleos (glory, fame, renown).
With the combined meaning “good glory” or “renowned for goodness.” The kleos element appears in many Greek names—Pericles, Sophocles, Themistocles, Heracles—and was one of the most valued concepts in ancient Greek culture: eternal renown achieved through great deeds.
The most significant historical bearer is Agathocles of Syracuse (361–289 BCE), one of antiquity’s most dramatic examples of a self-made man.
What Does Agathocles Mean? Origin & Etymology
Born the son of a potter, he rose through military service and political maneuvering to become tyrant of Syracuse—the most powerful Greek city in Sicily—and eventually proclaimed himself King of Sicily (the first ruler to use that title) and attempted to conquer Carthage by carrying the war to North Africa.
His extraordinary career—from artisan’s son to king—made him a standard exemplar of political ambition and military boldness in ancient historical writing.
The name Agathocles appears in the Hellenistic world across several prominent figures: Agathocles of Bactria (fl. c. 185–170 BCE), a Greek king of the Indo-Greek Kingdom who issued bilingual coins in Greek and Brahmi script; and various other Hellenistic officials and rulers.
The name is not used in any modern naming tradition. It appears in discussions of ancient Greek history, particularly the history of Greek Sicily and the Hellenistic kingdoms. The career of Agathocles of Syracuse was analyzed by Machiavelli in The Prince as an example of virtù without true glory.
Further reading: etymology records and US popularity records from SSA.
Numerology & Symbolism of Agathocles
Based on Pythagorean numerology — a traditional system linking name letters to numbers. Presented for cultural interest.
Agathocles – Similar Names & Alternatives
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Frequently Asked Questions about Agathocles
What does Agathocles mean?
Agathocles is Greek 'good' meaning good; This name was borne by a 2nd-century BC king of Bactria..
How popular is Agathocles?
Agathocles is rarely used in the United States but maintains its standing in Ancient Greek (Latinized). SSA records show no significant US ranking for this name.
Is Agathocles a boy or girl name?
Agathocles is used as both a masculine and feminine given name in its home tradition. The name is most common in Ancient Greek (Latinized) communities.
What are variants of Agathocles?
Agathocles has no widely established international variants and remains primarily used within Ancient Greek (Latinized) tradition.