What does Pericles mean and where does it come from?
Pericles (Περικλῆς) is a name of ancient Greek origin, famous for being the name of a prominent statesman and general during Athens' Golden Age. The meaning 'surrounded by glory' reflects the historical significance of the name, often associated with leadership and cultural advancement. The name has
Cultural significance
Pericles has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Greek-speaking communities, where it reflects values of surrounded by glory.
Peak popularity
Reached #3159 in 1965 — currently #11777 in the US.
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Related Reading
Greek-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Pericles?
Pericles works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Pericles Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Pericles Rose
Floral · soft ending
Pericles Mae
Sweet · timeless
Pericles Claire
French influence · crisp
Pericles Jane
Literary · strong
Pericles Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Pericles right now?
Falling — down 8618 spots — currently #11777 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2021 | #11777 | 6 | ▼ down 8618 · -25% births |
| 1965 | #3159 | 8 | — |
The story of Pericles
Pericles entered American naming records in 1921 and has been in use for over 103 years. With 68 total births recorded, Pericles remains relatively uncommon.
Names that peaked alongside Pericles in 1965:
Pericles by decade
Pericles peaked in the 1960s. See all 1960s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1920s ★ | 21 | |
| 1960s | 13 | |
| 1970s | 18 | |
| 1980s | 5 | |
| 1990s | 6 | |
| 2000s | 5 | |
💎Pericles has only 68 total recorded births since 1921 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.
What are good nicknames for Pericles?
Famous people named Pericles
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Pericles (modern Greek athlete)
Pericles brought this name to international sporting recognition representing Greece.
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Pericles (Greek poet or artist)
Pericles helped establish this as a name of cultural and artistic prestige in the Hellenic world.
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Pericles (Greek mythological figure)
Pericles carried this name in Greek mythology, connecting it to divine or heroic tradition.
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Pericles (Byzantine leader)
Pericles used this name through the Byzantine Empire, preserving its Greek heritage into the medieval era.
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Celebrity Names
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Explore →What names sound and feel like Pericles?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Pericles also consider these
How is Pericles written in other languages?
Common questions about the name Pericles
What does the name Pericles mean?
Pericles means "Surrounded by glory" — 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 Pericles?
Pericles is currently a distinctive and less common name as a boy name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Pericles?
Pericles 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.
What sibling names go well with Pericles?
Pericles pairs beautifully with sibling names that share a similar Greek heritage or complement its melodic and flowing sound. Names with a similar vibe create a cohesive sibling set without matching too closely.
Is Pericles a common or rare name?
Pericles is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.