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Adonis

♂ Boy

Pronounced uh-DON-is /əˈdɒn.ɪs/High

Meaning: Lord, master — from Phoenician/Semitic <em>adon</em> (lord, master), the name of the beautiful youth of Greek mythologyHigh

In 30 seconds: From the Phoenician word for 'lord,' Adonis is the Greek mythological youth of legendary beauty whose name became a byword for male physical perfection — bold, beautiful, and mythologically weighted.
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Origin HighGreek, Phoenician
MeaningLord, master — from Phoenician/Semitic <em>adon</em> (lord, master), the name of the beautiful youth of Greek mythology
Peak year2017
Total births (all-time)≈ 8,821

Popularity in the U.S. · SSA data

peak 201719182017

U.S. births per year (Social Security Administration, 1880–present). Pink marker = peak year.

History & Origin

Adonis derives from the Semitic/Phoenician adon, meaning 'lord' or 'master,' the same root as the Hebrew word Adonai (one of the names of God). In Greek mythology, Adonis was a beautiful mortal youth beloved by Aphrodite. The annual festival of Adonia mourned his death and celebrated his resurrection. His name became a common noun for a strikingly handsome man.

Adonis has been used as a given name in the United States, gaining particular traction in the early 21st century. It entered the U.S. top 500 boys' names in the 2000s and the top 300 in the 2010s. Its boldness and mythological weight appeal to parents seeking a name with presence. It is also associated with the Creed film series (where Michael B. Jordan's character is Adonis Creed).

Did you know? In Greek mythology, Adonis was so beautiful that both Aphrodite (goddess of love) and Persephone (goddess of the underworld) quarreled over him. Zeus had to mediate, ruling that Adonis would spend part of each year with each goddess — a myth explaining the cycle of seasons.

Variations

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Nicknames

AdoDon

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If you like Adonis…

Atlas— Greek mythological name with the same bold, powerful ancient feel

Frequently Asked

What does the name Adonis mean?

Adonis comes from Phoenician/Semitic <em>adon</em> meaning 'lord' or 'master,' the same root as Hebrew Adonai.

How do you pronounce Adonis?

Adonis is pronounced uh-DON-is /əˈdɒn.ɪs/ — three syllables with stress on the second.

Is Adonis a boy or girl name?

Adonis is a boys' name.

How popular is Adonis?

Adonis has risen into the U.S. top 300 boys' names in the 2010s and continues to grow as mythological names gain popularity.