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Hector Boy

Popularity: #354 · Trend: ↘ Falling

Origin(s)

PronunciationHEK-tor / /ˈhɛk.tər/

Greek; Latin

Meaning

Greek: holding fast; Latin: steadfast

Historical & Cultural Background

The name Hector has its roots in ancient Greek, derived from the name Ἕκτωρ (Hektor), which is believed to mean 'holding fast' or 'steadfast.' This name is prominently featured in Homer's epic poem, the Iliad, dating back to the 8th century BCE, where Hector is depicted as a noble Trojan prince and a formidable warrior, known for his bravery and sense of honor. The Latin form of the name, Hectore, was adopted into Roman culture, further solidifying its presence in the classical world. As the name transitioned into Old French as Hecteur, it eventually made its way into Middle English, maintaining its original form and significance.

Throughout history, Hector has been associated with various cultural and literary figures, notably in the context of chivalry and heroism. The character of Hector in the Iliad has been interpreted as a symbol of noble sacrifice and loyalty, which resonated through the ages, influencing medieval literature and the ideals of knighthood. In the 12th century, the name gained additional prominence through the works of medieval poets who celebrated the Trojan hero, further embedding Hector in the cultural consciousness of Europe.

In addition to its literary significance, the name has been borne by several historical figures, including saints and military leaders, which contributed to its enduring legacy. The name Hector has been associated with various virtues such as courage and honor, making it a symbol of heroic ideals in various cultures. The diminutive form, Hec, has also appeared in literature and folklore, although it is less commonly used. Overall, the name Hector encapsulates a rich tapestry of historical and cultural significance that has persisted through centuries.

Trend Summary

Hector has seen fluctuating popularity in the United States, with a notable presence in the early to mid-20th century.

Similar Names

Variants

  • Hectore
  • Hectoro

International Variants

  • Héctor (Spanish)
  • Hector (English)
  • Hector (French)
  • Hector (Italian)

Famous people named Hector

Hector Berlioz is a composer best known for Symphonie fantastique, Harold in Italy, and Roméo et Juliette.

Hector Elizondo is an actor best known for Pretty Woman, The Princess Diaries, and Chicago Hope.

Hector Lavoe is a singer best known for his contributions to salsa music and albums like La Voz and De Ti Depende.

Hector Camacho is a boxer best known for his titles in multiple weight classes and his fights against Oscar De La Hoya and Julio César Chávez.

Fictional characters named Hector

Hector is a fictional character from the epic poem Iliad. He is a Trojan prince and the greatest warrior for Troy in the Trojan War.

Sibling Suggestions

U.S. Historical Usage

The name Hector was first seen in the United States in 1880. Hector has ranked as high as #292 nationally, which occurred in 2005, and has been most popular in California, Texas, New York, Illinois, and Arizona. In the past 5 years the name Hector has been trending down compared to the previous 5 years.

Popularity Over Time (National)

Top States for Hector (2024)

StateBirthsShare
TX 226
28%
CA 172
21%
AZ 56
7%
FL 41
5%
IL 27
3%
NC 27
3%
WA 25
3%
NY 24
3%
MA 17
2%
GA 17
2%
PA 14
2%
VA 14
2%
NV 13
2%
IN 12
1%
AL 11
1%

Popularity Over Time (National) — Table

YearBirths
188015
18816
18826
188310
188411
18859
18866
18877
188818
18897
18906
189113
189215
18936
18948
18957
189612
189714
189810
189912
190019
19015
190311
190417
190512
190612
190716
190815
190918
191018
191135
191251
191351
191458
1915108
191691
191785
191890
1919107
1920119
1921129
1922123
1923127
1924139
1925138
1926146
1927182
1928186
1929193
1930197
1931189
1932172
1933198
1934186
1935175
1936166
1937155
1938183
1939172
1940192
1941178
1942193
1943240
1944241
1945258
1946300
1947333
1948423
1949467
1950473
1951590
1952600
1953626
1954649
1955800
1956801
1957808
1958840
1959914
1960872
1961898
1962924
1963959
1964944
1965967
1966938
1967936
19681,040
19691,127
19701,125
19711,177
19721,114
19731,195
19741,212
19751,245
19761,254
19771,144
19781,243
19791,420
19801,448
19811,410
19821,526
19831,369
19841,336
19851,492
19861,472
19871,592
19881,656
19891,806
19901,990
19912,036
19922,018
19932,032
19941,972
19951,877
19961,966
19971,870
19981,815
19991,915
20001,979
20011,905
20021,942
20031,998
20042,004
20052,458
20062,327
20072,243
20082,179
20091,845
20101,562
20111,414
20121,325
20131,257
20141,213
20151,194
20161,100
20171,074
20181,012
2019985
2020856
2021899
2022927
2023831
2024858