Hector

“holding fast”

Greek origin · Unisex name

♂ 100% boys♀ 0% girls

#384US 2023

831Births / yr

↓Falling

104.9kAll-time births

📅 Since 193500

How to pronounce Hector

HEKT·er

/ˈhɛkt.ɝ/ · stress on HEKT · 2 syllables

“holding fast”

Greek origin · Unisex name

What does Hector mean and where does it come from?

Hector (Ἕκτωρ) has its roots in Greek mythology as a noble warrior and prince of Troy. The name is derived from the Greek word 'hektōr', meaning 'to hold', symbolizing strength and resilience. It has gained popularity in various cultures, particularly in Spanish-speaking and English-speaking countri

Cultural significance

Hector has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Greek-speaking communities, where it reflects values of holding fast.

Peak popularity

Reached #3568 in 1974 — currently #384 in the US.

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What middle names flow best with Hector?

Hector works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful

Hector Grace

How popular is Hector right now?

Declining — down 29 spots — currently #384 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names

US Trend 1935–2023#384 · Top 0.28%

1935

1965

1970

1975

1980

1985

1990

1995

2021

2022

2023

Year	US Rank	Births	vs Prior Year
2023	#384	831	▼ down 29 · -10% births
2022	#355	927	▲ up 7 · +3% births
2021	#362	899	▲ up 7168 · +8073% births
1995	#7530	11	▼ down 658 · -8% births
1990	#6872	12	▼ down 1777 · -14% births
1985	#5095	14	▼ down 1364 · -33% births
1980	#3731	21	▲ up 653 · +50% births
1975	#4384	14	▲ up 394 · +27% births
1970	#4778	11	▲ up 536 · +57% births
1965	#5314	7	▼ down 1080 · +40% births
1935	#4234	5	—

Name Popularity Timeline

Popularity Statistics for Hector

Best Year2022Rank #355

Peak Count927

Average Rank#3913

Current Trend↗Rising

Data Range1935 - 202311 years

The story of Hector

Hector entered American naming records in 1935 and has been in use for over 89 years. More than 104,854 babies have been named Hector since 1935. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #4234 in 1935 to #384 in 2023. Hector is used for both genders: 0% female and 100% male.

Names that peaked alongside Hector in 1974:

Jennifer Amy Michelle Heather Angela

Hector by decade

Hector peaked in the 1970s. See all 1970s names →

Decade	Births
1880s	95
1890s	103
1900s	125
1910s	694
1920s	1,483
1930s	1,798
1940s	2,825
1950s	7,117
1960s	9,662
1970s	12,257
1980s	15,252
1990s	19,587
2000s ★	20,890
2010s	12,118
2020s	848

What are good nicknames for Hector?

SCOTTISH

HeckHeckie

Famous people named Hector

Hector (Greek mythological figure)

Hector carried this name in Greek mythology, connecting it to divine or heroic tradition.

Hector (ancient philosopher)

Hector bore this name in classical Greece, where it was associated with wisdom and learning.

Hector (Greek mythological figure)

Hector carried this name in Greek mythology, connecting it to divine or heroic tradition.

Hector (Byzantine leader)

Hector used this name through the Byzantine Empire, preserving its Greek heritage into the medieval era.

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Celebrity Names

What celebrities named their babies in 2025

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What names sound and feel like Hector?

Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Hector also consider these

Hektor

Greece · holding fast

Portugal · Derived from the

Rector

American · One who rules

Nestor

Greek · Meaning 'homecoming' or

Ector

France · Old French

Victor

Latin · Victorious, conqueror.

How is Hector written in other languages?

‘Εκτωρ

Ancient Greek

Common questions about the name Hector

What does the name Hector mean?

Hector means "holding fast" — a name rooted in Greek tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.

How popular is the name Hector?

Hector is currently ranked #384 in the United States as a baby name in the US and is becoming rarer and more distinctive, making it a unique choice that stands out.

What is the cultural origin of Hector?

Hector originates from Greek tradition. Greek names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.

How do you pronounce the name Hector?

Hector is a two-syllable name pronounced HH EH1 K T ER0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.

Is Hector more of a girl or boy name?

Hector is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.