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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Related Reading
Greek-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →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
Most popular combo · classic
Hector Rose
Floral · soft ending
Hector Mae
Sweet · timeless
Hector Claire
French influence · crisp
Hector Jane
Literary · strong
Hector Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Hector right now?
Declining — down 29 spots — currently #384 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| 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 | — |
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:
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?
Famous people named Hector
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Hector (Greek mythological figure)
Hector carried this name in Greek mythology, connecting it to divine or heroic tradition.
H(
Hector (ancient philosopher)
Hector bore this name in classical Greece, where it was associated with wisdom and learning.
H(
Hector (Greek mythological figure)
Hector carried this name in Greek mythology, connecting it to divine or heroic tradition.
H(
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 2024
Explore →What names sound and feel like Hector?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Hector also consider these
How is Hector written in other languages?
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.