Rooted deeply in Greek history, Artemis is the title of the fierce goddess of the hunt, wilderness, and chastity. While the etymology is debated among scholars, it is most often associated with concepts of safety and strength.
Verdict: Artemis is a top-tier choice for a baby born in 2025. It sits in that “sweet spot” of popularity, familiar enough to be pronounced correctly, but distinct enough that your child won’t likely share it with three others in their kindergarten class. It offers a powerful alternative to softer floral names, signaling independence and resilience.
Artemis Overview
- Meaning: Artemis has a complex etymology, debated as meaning “safe” or “butcher” (referring to the hunt).
- Gender: Artemis is technically unisex due to pop culture, but historically and predominantly female.
- Origin: Artemis has roots in Greek mythology, first mentioned by the poet Hesiod. The Roman equivalent is Diana.
- Pronunciation: It is pronounced “AR-tuh-miss” or occasionally “ar-TEE-miss.”
- Popularity: Artemis is a rising star. It peaked recently in 2021, breaking into the top 805 names for American girls, and continues to gain traction.
- Nicknames: Ari, Art, Artie, Arty, Missy, Tee, Moon, Arrow.
- Variations: Artemisia, Artemidoros.
- Namesakes: Artemis Cooper (author), Artemis Pebdani (actress).
What Does Artemis Mean?
The name Artemis is a linguistic puzzle that has fascinated onomatologists for centuries. While some sources bluntly translate it as “butcher” or “cutter” (a reference to her role as a hunter who dresses meat), this definition lacks nuance. A more generally accepted etymology connects the name to the Greek word artemes, which translates to “safe,” “sound,” or “unharmed.” This creates a beautiful duality: the name represents both a fierce hunter and a protector who keeps the young safe.
In the tapestry of mythology, Artemis is the virgin goddess of the hunt, wild animals, vegetation, and childbirth. She is the twin sister of Apollo and the daughter of Zeus and Leto. She is often depicted carrying a bow and arrow, roaming the forests with her band of nymphs. Because she requested Zeus to grant her eternal virginity, the name signifies independence, autonomy, and freedom from societal expectations. For parents, naming a child Artemis is often a wish that they will grow up to be self-sufficient, nature-loving, and fiercely protective of those they love.
Where Does the Name Artemis Come From?
Artemis is of Ancient Greek origin. It is one of the oldest names in the canon of Western literature, first appearing in the works of Hesiod and Homer. The name is pre-Hellenic, meaning its roots might actually go back further than the Ancient Greeks themselves, possibly to the Minoan civilization on Crete.
Historically, the name was so revered that the Temple of Artemis in Ephesus was built in her honor; it stood as one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. While the Romans later adopted her likeness and renamed her Diana, the original Greek “Artemis” has seen a resurgence in the modern era as parents look for names that feel older and more authentic than the Latinized versions.
How Popular is the Name Artemis?
For decades, Artemis was considered too heavy or “out there” for an American baby. It was a name reserved for ships, cats, or fantasy characters. However, the trend of “Theomania” (naming children after gods and goddesses) has changed the landscape entirely.
Following the skyrocketing success of names like Athena and Apollo, Artemis began to climb the charts in the 2010s. It officially broke into the US Top 1000 in 2014 and has been on a steady upward trajectory since. It is currently a rising star, not yet overused, but familiar enough to be stylish. It fits perfectly into the current zeitgeist of “vintage revival” names, yet it offers a sharper edge than Victorian classics like Emma or Charlotte.
How Do I Pronounce Artemis?
The most common American English pronunciation is AR-tuh-miss.
However, depending on the region or accent, you may also hear ar-TEE-miss. Both are generally accepted, though the former is the standard.
Is Artemis a Boy or Girl Name?
Traditionally and mythologically, Artemis is strictly a female name. It belongs to a goddess who specifically championed women and girls.
However, in the 21st century, gender lines in naming are blurring. The popular book series Artemis Fowl features a male protagonist, which has emboldened some parents to use it for boys. Despite this, the SSA data shows it is still overwhelmingly used for girls. If you love the sound for a boy but want something more traditionally masculine, Artemas (a biblical figure) or Artemus are excellent alternatives.
Variations of Artemis
While Artemis is the standard spelling, there are a few variations and related names from around the globe.
- Artemisia: A stunning, elaborate Greek variation (famous bearer: Artemisia Gentileschi, the Renaissance painter).
- Artemisios: The ancient male form.
- Cynthia: An epithet for Artemis, referring to her birthplace on Mount Cynthus.
- Diana: The Latin/Roman variation.
Nicknames for Artemis
Artemis is a long, three-syllable name, so nicknames are inevitable. Here are the most common, plus a few creative options.
- Ari: Short, punchy, and unisex.
- Artie / Arty: A vintage-sounding nickname that feels playful.
- Missy: A sweet option derived from the last syllable.
- Temi: A unique, softer nickname.
- Arrow: A creative modern nickname referencing the goddess’s weapon.
- Moon: A whimsical nickname referencing her celestial association.
Names Similar to Artemis
If you love the vibe of Artemis but aren’t quite ready to commit, consider these names that share a similar “mythological cool” aesthetic.
- Athena: Another powerful Greek goddess name, associated with wisdom and war.
- Calliope: The muse of epic poetry; shares the Greek origin and four-syllable grandeur.
- Juniper: Shares the nature/wilderness vibe but feels more modern.
- Lilith: A name with a similar “dark feminine” power.
- Persephone: A Greek myth name that pairs beautifully with Artemis.
- Diana: The smoother, Roman version of the same goddess.
- Ariadne: A similar-sounding Greek name meaning “most holy.”
- Calypso: A rhythmic, island-inspired mythological name.
- Xanthe: A golden-hued Greek name that feels just as edgy.
Middle Names for Artemis
Because Artemis is a strong, distinct name, it pairs best with middle names that either ground it or enhance its nature vibe.
Short and Sweet Middle Names
These one-syllable options prevent the full name from becoming a mouthful.
Classic Middle Names
Ground the mythological first name with a timeless middle name.
Edgy & Nature Middle Names
Lean into the wild goddess persona with these bold pairings.
Sibling Names for Artemis
Building a sibset around Artemis requires names that can match its historical weight and distinctive sound.
For a Brother
- Apollo: The obvious choice; Artemis’s twin in mythology.
- Atlas: Strong, Greek, and currently very trendy.
- River: Captures the nature aspect of Artemis without being mythological.
- Orion: A hunter constellation name that pairs perfectly.
- Theodore: A classic name with Greek roots (“gift of God”) that feels substantial.
- Phoenix: A unisex mythical bird that matches the fierceness of Artemis.
For a Sister
- Athena: A perfect match for parents who love powerful goddesses.
- Daphne: A Greek name with nature connections (laurel tree) and a softer sound.
- Ophelia: Literary, dramatic, and beautifully vintage.
- Penelope: A Greek classic that is more common but equally historic.
- Cordelia: A Shakespearean name with the same sophisticated weight.
- Freya: The Norse counterpart to the goddess archetype.
Famous People Named Artemis
While rare, there are notable figures who bear this title.
- Artemis Cooper: A celebrated British writer and biographer, known for her works on Patrick Leigh Fermor and Elizabeth David.
- Artemis Pebdani: An American actress best known for her roles in Scandal and It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia.
- Artemis Spanou: A Greek professional basketball player, bringing the name’s athletic roots to life.
Artemis in Pop Culture
The name appears frequently in fiction, often denoting characters of great skill or power.
- Artemis Fowl: The criminal mastermind and anti-hero of Eoin Colfer’s best-selling young adult series.
- Artemis (Sailor Moon): The white guardian cat in the iconic Sailor Moon anime and manga series.
- Art3mis: The avatar of Samantha Cook in the blockbuster book and movie Ready Player One.
- Artemis of Bana-Mighdall: An Amazon warrior in the DC Comics Wonder Woman universe.
- Artemis Crock: A superhero/villain in the Young Justice animated series.
FAQs About the Name Artemis
Here are answers to common questions parents ask when considering this name.
Why Is Artemis Considered a Unisex Name?
Artemis is primarily feminine due to its origins as a Greek goddess. However, it is considered unisex in modern pop culture largely because of the Artemis Fowl book series, where the main character is a boy. In the book, the character explains he is named after a great hunter. While the SSA data shows it is still 90% utilized for girls, this literary connection makes it a valid, albeit bold, choice for a son.
Is the Name Artemis in the Bible?
Yes, Artemis is mentioned in the New Testament in Acts 19. The passage describes a riot in Ephesus caused by silversmiths who made shrines for the goddess Artemis and feared that the Apostle Paul’s preaching would ruin their trade. In this context, the name refers to the deity being worshipped, not a follower of Jesus. It serves as a historical reference to the clash between early Christianity and established pagan religions.
What Are the Roman and Greek Variations of Artemis?
In Roman mythology, the goddess Artemis is known as Diana. Diana has been a historically popular name in its own right, especially in the UK and US. Another Greek variation associated with her is Cynthia, derived from Mount Cynthus where she was born. Historically, the name Artemisia was also used to honor the goddess, most notably by the warrior queen Artemisia I of Caria.
What Is the “Vibe” of the Name Artemis?
Artemis carries a vibe that is simultaneously intellectual and wild. It fits into the “Dark Academia” aesthetic due to its classical roots, appealing to parents who love history and literature. However, it also fits the “Cottagecore” or nature aesthetic because of the goddess’s dominion over the forest and animals. It is generally seen as a feminist name, representing autonomy, strength, and a lack of reliance on male figures.
Is Artemis Too Difficult to Spell or Pronounce?
Generally, no. Artemis is phonetic (Ar-tuh-mis) and follows standard English pronunciation rules. While it is less common than names like Sarah or Jessica, it is a recognizable word name for many English speakers. The only common spelling error is swapping the “i” for an “e” (Artemes) or using a “y” (Artymis), but the standard spelling is widely known due to mythology units taught in most schools.
