Ajax

♂ Boy

Pronounced AY-jaks /ˈeɪ.dʒæks/High

Meaning: From Greek Aias (Latin Ajax) — possibly linked to 'of the earth' or 'eagle' — the giant warrior-hero of the Trojan WarMedium

In 30 seconds: A mighty hero of Troy: Ajax was the giant warrior second only to Achilles. Bold, muscular, and unforgettable — a name with the strength of a Greek epic (and an X-factor ending).

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Origin MediumGreek

MeaningFrom Greek Aias (Latin Ajax) — possibly linked to 'of the earth' or 'eagle' — the giant warrior-hero of the Trojan War

U.S. rank (2025)#3243 ↗ Rising

2025 U.S. births36 boys (0.00% of U.S. boys)

Peak year2023

Total births (all-time)≈ 452

Popularity in the U.S. · SSA data

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

SSA data updated May 2026. How we source & verify this data.

History & Origin

Ajax is the Latin form of Greek Aias — of uncertain meaning, possibly 'of the earth' or linked to 'eagle' — the giant warrior of Homer's Iliad, second in might only to Achilles. The name carries epic strength; its exact etymology is debated, which we note.

In the U.S. it is rare, chosen for its bold heroic punch. Hero-strong at the root, mythic, and striking.

Did you know? Ajax the Great was the towering Greek hero whose huge shield was 'like a wall' — and the Dutch football club Ajax and the famous cleanser both borrowed his unstoppable name.

Overall data confidence 75%

Behind the Name — Ajax — etymology

Variations

AiasAjaxx

Nicknames

Famous Bearers

★Ajax
Hero of Greek mythology, a great warrior who fought in the Trojan War alongside Achilles

If you like Ajax…

Atlas— a fellow strong Greek name

Achilles— the hero beside him at Troy

Orion— a companion Greek-myth name

Maximus— another mighty classical name

Explore names like Ajax

By themegreek mythological heroic

By meaningWarrior Earth / Nature Bird

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Frequently Asked

What does the name Ajax mean?

Ajax is from Greek Aias, of uncertain meaning (possibly 'of the earth' or 'eagle'); he was a mighty Trojan War hero.

How do you pronounce Ajax?

It's said AY-jaks /ˈeɪ.dʒæks/ — two syllables, stress on the first.

Is Ajax a boy or girl name?

Ajax is a boy's name.

How popular is Ajax?

Ajax is a rare name in the U.S.