Antonios is a name of Greek origin, derived from the Greek word 'anthos' which means 'flower'. It is a masculine given name that has been used throughout history and continues to be popular today, particularly in Greece but also among communities of Greek descent elsewhere in the world.
The name Antonios was especially prevalent during the Byzantine Empire, where it was often given to members of the imperial family. One notable bearer of this name was Saint Anthony the Great, an early Christian monk who is considered a founder of Desert Monasticism. His influence has contributed significantly to the enduring popularity of the name Antonios among Greek Orthodox Christians.
In terms of its sound and spelling, Antonios can vary depending on the language and culture. In English-speaking countries, it may be spelled as Anthony or Antony, while in other languages like Italian it becomes Antonio. Despite these variations, the name remains fundamentally Greek in origin and meaning.
Overall, Antonios is a classic and respected name that carries historical significance and cultural heritage. It has been passed down through generations and continues to be chosen by parents today due to its strong ties with tradition and its attractive sound.
The name Antonios experienced fluctuations in popularity over the decades. In the early years (1954-1970), there were fewer than 15 births per year on average. However, from 1972 onwards, there was a significant increase, with more than 15 births per year consistently until 1998. The peak years for the name Antonios were between 1972 and 1986, with particularly high numbers in 1972 (23 births), 1974 (21 births), and 1975 (25 births). Since then, the popularity of the name has generally declined, with fewer than 20 births per year recorded since 2005.