Hector

Hector is the Latinized version of the ancient Greek name Hektor (Ἕκτωρ). It means 'the holder' or 'the anchor' and is derived from the ancient Greek term héktōr (ἕκτωρ), which stands for 'to hold fast'. The name has its roots in Greek mythology.

What does the name Hector mean?

The name Hector comes from the Latinized form of the ancient Greek Hektor (Ἕκτωρ) and means 'the holder' or 'the anchor', derived from the ancient Greek word héktōr (ἕκτωρ) for 'to hold fast'. In Homer's epic 'Iliad', Hector is the eldest son of Priam, the king of Troy, and he was a key fighter in the Trojan War, where he was killed by Achilles. The name Hector is primarily found in English and French-speaking regions, while the spelling Héctor is common in Spanish-speaking countries, especially in Latin America. With over two million bearers, Hector is among the most popular boy names worldwide. Additionally, Hector is also a common surname in Germany. Alternative spellings include Ector, Ektor, Ettore, and Heitor.

Where does the name Hector come from?

The first name Hector has its roots in ancient Greek and means 'the holder' or 'the anchor'. The ancient Greek term héktōr (ἕκτωρ) means 'to hold fast'. The name is widespread in various languages such as English, French, Catalan, Latin American Spanish, and South American Spanish.

How do you pronounce Hector?

The name Hector is two syllables and has a distinctive sound. In German pronunciation, it is usually rendered as 'Hek-tor' [ˈhɛktɔʁ]. It begins with a clear E sound, followed by the powerful consonant cluster '-kt'. The rolled or aspirated 'r' at the end gives the name a resonant quality. Hector conveys strength and tradition, making it present and characterful.

When is the name day of Hector?

The name day for Hector is celebrated on February 4th in honor of Saint John Hector de Britto.

Popularity

In Germany, Hector is among the most popular first names. Currently, it ranks 1,098 on the list of the most common male baby names. Its best placement was in 2017 at position 436. Over the last ten years, the name has been given about 760 times, placing it at 663 in the ten-year statistics. Between 2010 and 2024, it ranks 745. Worldwide, Hector is also popular, with varying rankings in different countries.

Nicknames & pet names

Hec / Hecci / Hece / Heco

Similar first names

Famous people

• Hector Abad Faciolince (writer from Colombia)
• Hector Adolfo Enrique (Argentinian football player)
• Hector Alfredo D'Angelo (Argentinian football player)
• Hector Antonio Hoffens Valenzuela (Chilean football player)
• Hector Barbera (motorcycle racer from the USA)
• Hector Barbossa (fictional character from the Pirates of the Caribbean film series)
• Hector Bellerin (football player from Great Britain)
• Hector Berlioz (French composer)
• Hector Campos (Argentinian sailor)
• Hector Carrero (Mexican ice hockey player)
• Hector Castro (Uruguayan football coach)
• Hector Charlesworth (writer from Finland)
• Hector Cincunegui (Uruguayan football player)
• Hector Cuper (Argentinian football player)
• Hector Delos (fictional character from the Goddess Trilogy by Josephine Angelini)
• Hector Demarco (footballer from Uruguay)
• Hector Dupeyron (French opera singer)
• Hector Echeverri (Colombian football player)
• Hector Elizondo (American actor)
• Hector Faubel (motorcycle racer)