Perseus

Meaning & origin

Perseus, the legendary Greek hero who sliced off Medusa's head, has been rising through the ranks of boy names since 2006, and as of 2025 it sits at rank 1204, with approximately 1 in 10,167 boys receiving the name that year. The name first appeared in U.S. records in 1983 and reached its highest position ever in 2025, reflecting a growing interest in mythological names. Top states for Perseus include Utah, Missouri, and Washington, suggesting a geographic preference in the West and Midwest. While its etymology remains uncertain, the name's heroic associations have helped it gain traction among parents seeking a distinctive, strong choice. The name has also received a boost from pop culture appearances, notably in the 'Percy Jackson' series, though the hero of those books uses the nickname Percy. In addition to its historic appeal, Perseus has developed a modern feel, fitting alongside other revived ancient names like Atticus and Orion.

Perseus is a name from Greek mythology, borne by the legendary hero who beheaded the Gorgon Medusa and rescued Andromeda. The name's etymology is debated; it may derive from the Greek verb πέρθω (perthō) meaning 'to destroy' or from Persian elements, but no consensus exists. In modern usage, the name was revived in the late 20th century, particularly in English-speaking countries.