Meaning: Its source is Homeros, a Greek name meaning "Hostage."

Languages: This boy's name is used in Spanish.

Narrative: This was the name of the legendary author of The Iliad and The Odyssey.

Aside from being important literary works, these epic poems are responsible for the wide proliferation and continued popularity of many Greek-derived names. The names of heroes such as Achilles and Hector go in and out of style; but Helen (whose fabled beauty motivated the action of The Iliad) continues as a popular name, along with its variations (Helena, Ellen, Eileen, Elaine, and more). See also Penelope, Nestor and Ulysses.