Hercules

Hercules

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Table of Contents
1. Hercules name meaning and origin
2. Hercules name popularity
3. Variations and nicknames of Hercules
4. Best name combinations with Hercules
5. Numerology of Hercules name
6. Hercules name in pop culture
7. Famous people named Hercules
8. Names similar to Hercules

1. Hercules name meaning and origin

Hercules is a name of ancient Greek origin, derived from the Greek name 'Heracles' (Ἡρακλῆς), which combines 'Hera' (the Greek goddess) and 'kleos' meaning glory or fame. Despite being named after Hera, ironically, Hercules faced the goddess's wrath throughout his life according to mythology. The name essentially translates to 'glory of Hera' or 'famous through Hera,' though some scholars interpret it as 'glory in the air.'

In classical mythology, Hercules was the Roman adaptation of the Greek divine hero Heracles, son of Jupiter (Zeus) and the mortal Alcmene. The name became popularized through legends of the twelve labors of Hercules and his extraordinary strength and courage. After his death, according to mythological accounts, Hercules was elevated to divine status, representing the archetypal hero who overcomes tremendous obstacles through virtue and fortitude. This narrative contributed significantly to the name's enduring legacy across centuries.

2. Hercules name popularity

Girl
Boy
#0
in 2023
0
from 2022
Popularity of Hercules
United States
United Kingdom

Hercules is a name of ancient Greek origin, derived from the famous mythological hero known for his extraordinary strength and legendary feats. In both the United States and the United Kingdom, it remains an extremely rare masculine name, never appearing in recorded popularity rankings of either country.

Despite its powerful associations with heroism and divine strength, Hercules has not gained traction as a modern given name in English-speaking countries. Parents likely consider it too imposing or heavily associated with mythology for everyday use. While some might appreciate its bold classical heritage, most have opted for more conventional names, leaving Hercules firmly in the realm of mythology rather than contemporary naming practices.

3. Variations and nicknames of Hercules

The name Hercules, derived from the legendary Greek hero known for his strength and courage, has evolved across cultures and languages throughout history. In its original Greek form, the hero was called Heracles or Herakles, meaning 'glory of Hera' – ironically named after the goddess who persecuted him. When adopted by the Romans, the name transformed into the more familiar Hercules, which became the standard form in English. Other linguistic variants include Ercole in Italian, Hércules in Spanish and Portuguese, Héraclès in French, and Herakles in German. In Slavic languages, forms like Herkulan and Herkulie preserve the ancient hero's legacy, while modern Greek speakers still use Iraklis, maintaining a direct connection to the original form.

Beyond formal variants, the name Hercules has inspired numerous affectionate nicknames and diminutives used throughout history. Common English nicknames include Herc and Herk, while Cules and Cullie represent more playful derivations. In Italian communities, nicknames like Erccy or Collie might be heard, while Spanish speakers might use Herky or Kules as familiar forms. Historical records show that Alcides was actually used as an earlier name for Hercules in some myths, functioning almost like a childhood name before his more famous identity was established. In contemporary settings, particularly among athletes and bodybuilders who embody physical strength, honorary nicknames like 'The Modern Hercules' or simply 'Hercules' are bestowed upon individuals, continuing the tradition of associating the name with exceptional physical prowess and heroic achievements across generations and cultures.

4. Best name combinations with Hercules

Middle names that pair well with Hercules:

  • Hercules Alexander
  • Hercules Orion
  • Hercules Phoenix
  • Hercules Magnus
  • Hercules Apollo
  • Hercules Maximus
  • Hercules Atlas
  • Hercules Leonidas
  • Hercules Augustus
  • Hercules Zeus
  • Hercules Achilles
  • Hercules Aurelius
  • Hercules Theseus
  • Hercules Evander
  • Hercules Perseus
  • Hercules Darius
  • Hercules Titus
  • Hercules Atticus
  • Hercules Hector
  • Hercules Odysseus

Names that go well when Hercules is used as a middle name:

  • Aeneas Hercules
  • Atticus Hercules
  • Bastian Hercules
  • Cassius Hercules
  • Damon Hercules
  • Evander Hercules
  • Felix Hercules
  • Gideon Hercules
  • Hector Hercules
  • Jason Hercules
  • Leander Hercules
  • Marcus Hercules
  • Nikolaos Hercules
  • Octavius Hercules
  • Perseus Hercules
  • Quintus Hercules
  • Roman Hercules
  • Silvius Hercules
  • Thaddeus Hercules
  • Victor Hercules

5. Numerology of Hercules name

In Pythagorean numerology, the name "Hercules" carries specific vibrations that reveal aspects of character and potential.

Destiny Number (Expression Number):

8
H(8) + E(5) + R(9) + C(3) + U(3) + L(3) + E(5) + S(1) = 37 = 3+7 = 10 = 1+0 = 8

The Destiny Number 8 indicates a path of ambition, authority, and material achievement. This suggests natural leadership abilities and potential for significant financial or business success. In relationships, 8s can be powerful partners but may need to balance their drive for achievement with emotional connection. Career paths that utilize management skills, financial acumen, or executive leadership would align well with this energy.

Soul Urge Number (Heart's Desire Number):

6
Vowels: E(5) + U(3) + E(5) = 13 = 1+3 = 4

The Soul Urge Number 4 reveals an inner desire for stability, order, and building lasting structures. This indicates a deep need for security and demonstrates natural abilities in organization and methodical work. In relationships, there's a desire for loyalty and dependability. Career paths involving systems, building, planning, or managing established structures would fulfill this inner motivation.

Personality Number:

4
Consonants: H(8) + R(9) + C(3) + L(3) + S(1) = 24 = 2+4 = 6

The Personality Number 6 shows how others perceive "Hercules" - as responsible, nurturing, and service-oriented. This projects an image of someone who takes care of others and honors commitments. In social situations, this creates an impression of reliability and compassion. Career paths involving teaching, counseling, healthcare, or community service would leverage this outward energy effectively.

Note: This numerology analysis is just for fun and entertainment purposes. It is not meant to be taken seriously or as a reflection of one’s true personality or destiny. No offense is intended.

6. Hercules name in pop culture

Name
Description
Hercules (Disney)
Animated film released by Disney in 1997, loosely based on Greek mythology with Hercules as the protagonist who must prove himself a true hero to reclaim his godhood
Hercules: The Legendary Journeys
Popular television series that aired from 1995 to 1999, starring Kevin Sorbo as Hercules on his adventures through ancient Greece
Hercules (Marvel Comics)
Character in Marvel Comics who appears as a member of the Avengers, based on the Greek demigod and portrayed as an immortal superhero
The Rock as Hercules
2014 action film starring Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson as the legendary Greek hero, directed by Brett Ratner
Hercules (Nutty Professor)
Eddie Murphy's character's alter ego in 'The Nutty Professor' film series, representing the confident, muscular counterpart to Professor Sherman Klump

7. Famous people named Hercules

Name
Description
Kevin Sorbo
American actor best known for playing the title character in the television series 'Hercules: The Legendary Journeys' from 1995 to 1999
Hercules (wrestler)
Professional name of Raymond Fernandez, an American professional wrestler who competed in the WWF/WWE from the 1980s to early 2000s
Hercules Posey
Chef and slave to George Washington who was highly regarded for his culinary skills at Mount Vernon and became one of the first celebrity chefs in American history
Hercules Mata'afa
NFL defensive lineman who played for the Minnesota Vikings and most recently the Washington Football Team
Hercules Smith
British jazz musician and bandleader who was a prominent figure in the UK jazz scene during the 1950s and 1960s
Dwayne Johnson
American actor and former professional wrestler who starred as Hercules in the 2014 film 'Hercules'
Herculez Gomez
American former soccer player who represented the United States national team and became a sports analyst after retirement
Steve Reeves
American bodybuilder and actor who played Hercules in Italian-produced films 'Hercules' (1958) and 'Hercules Unchained' (1959)
Lou Ferrigno
American bodybuilder and actor who portrayed Hercules in the 1983 films 'Hercules' and 'The Adventures of Hercules'
Tate Ellington
American actor who voiced Hercules in the video game 'God of War III'

8. Names similar to Hercules

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Table of Contents
1. Hercules name meaning and origin
2. Hercules name popularity
3. Variations and nicknames of Hercules
4. Best name combinations with Hercules
5. Numerology of Hercules name
6. Hercules name in pop culture
7. Famous people named Hercules
8. Names similar to Hercules