Odysseus Name Meaning & Details
Origin, Popularity, Numerology Analysis & Name Meaning of Odysseus
Discover the origin, meaning, and cultural significance of the name ODYSSEUS. Delve into its historical roots and explore the lasting impact it has had on communities and traditions.
Name
Odysseus
Gender
Male
Origin
Greek
Lucky Number
1
Meaning of the Name
Odysseus means 'wrathful' or 'full of wrath,' reflecting the character's passionate nature in Greek mythology. The name is most famously associated with the intelligent and enduring hero of Homer's Odyssey, known for his cunning and long journey home.
Complete Numerology Analysis
Your Numerology Number
Based on Pythagorean Numerology System
Ruling Planet
Sun
Positive Nature
Leaders, ambitious, highly driven, self-reliant, innovative.
Negative Traits
Overly aggressive, domineering, impatient, selfish.
Lucky Colours
Red, orange, gold.
Lucky Days
Sunday.
Lucky Stones
Ruby, garnet.
Harmony Numbers
2, 3, 9.
Best Suited Professions
Entrepreneurs, managers, engineers.
What People Like About You
Courage, determination, leadership.
Famous People Named Odysseus
Odysseus
Mythological Hero
King of Ithaca who devised the Trojan Horse and endured a 10-year journey home after the Trojan War
Odysseus Elytis
Poet
Nobel Prize-winning Greek poet known for his modernist works and celebration of Greek landscape
Odysseas Vlachodimos
Footballer
Professional Greek-German goalkeeper who has played for Benfica and the Greek national team
Name Variations & International Equivalents
Click on blue names to explore their detailed meanings. Gray names with will be available soon.
Cultural & Historical Significance
The character has become synonymous with the concept of an epic journey or odyssey, influencing countless works of literature and philosophical thought about human nature and the meaning of life's journeys. From Dante's depiction in the Inferno to James Joyce's modernist masterpiece Ulysses, Odysseus continues to serve as a template for exploring the human condition. His legacy extends beyond literature into psychology, where his name gives us the term 'odyssey' for any long, adventurous journey of personal transformation and discovery.
Extended Personality Analysis
Individuals named Odysseus are often associated with intelligence, cunning, and strategic thinking, reflecting the mythological hero's famous cleverness in overcoming obstacles. They tend to be resourceful problem-solvers who prefer wit over brute force, capable of devising creative solutions to complex challenges. The name also carries connotations of endurance and perseverance, suggesting someone who can withstand prolonged difficulties while maintaining their ultimate goals.
However, the 'wrathful' aspect of the name's meaning indicates a potential for intense emotional responses when provoked or betrayed, combined with a strong sense of justice and the determination to see wrongs righted. This creates a complex personality profile of someone both intellectually gifted and passionately committed to their principles and loved ones. The name suggests a person who is adaptable in changing circumstances, eloquent in communication, and capable of leadership through intelligence rather than intimidation—qualities that make them effective in crisis situations but sometimes prone to overthinking or manipulation.
Modern Usage & Popularity
In contemporary times, Odysseus remains a relatively uncommon but culturally significant name, primarily used by families with Greek heritage or those deeply interested in classical literature and mythology. While not appearing on most popular baby name lists in English-speaking countries, it has seen occasional usage among intellectuals and classicists. The Latin form 'Ulysses' has been more widely adopted in English-speaking contexts, particularly in the United States, where it peaked in popularity during the 19th century. In Greece, the modern form 'Odysseas' sees moderate usage, often chosen to honor cultural heritage and the values of intelligence and perseverance that the name represents. The name maintains a sophisticated, literary quality that appeals to parents seeking a name with deep historical roots and intellectual connotations rather than following current naming trends.
Symbolic & Spiritual Meanings
Odysseus symbolizes the eternal human journey—both literal and metaphorical—representing the struggle to return home after long absence and transformation. The name embodies the concept of the 'hero's journey' as described by Joseph Campbell, serving as an archetype for personal growth through adversity and the integration of wisdom gained from diverse experiences. Symbolically, Odysseus represents the balance between intelligence and action, the tension between wandering and homecoming, and the transformation of identity through suffering and endurance. His story has become a metaphor for any long, arduous quest filled with obstacles that ultimately lead to self-discovery and wisdom, making the name a powerful symbol of resilience, cleverness, and the human capacity to overcome seemingly insurmountable challenges through wit and determination rather than mere strength.