Epiktetos
eh-peek-TEH-tos
Epiktetos is composed of the Greek prefix 'epi' (upon, additionally) and 'ktetos' (acquired, gained from ktaomai, to acquire). The name literally means 'additionally acquired' or 'obtained besides', a name type common in antiquity for enslaved persons or those brought into a household. Ironically, the most famous bearer, Epictetus the philosopher, was born into slavery yet became one of the greatest teachers of Stoic philosophy in the ancient world.
At a glance
Epiktetos is a rare ancient Greek name meaning 'additionally acquired', made immortal by the Stoic philosopher Epictetus whose teachings on inner freedom remain profoundly relevant today.
Etymology & History
The name Epiktetos derives from 'epi' (upon, in addition) and 'ktetos', the verbal adjective of 'ktaomai' (to acquire, to get, to possess). The compound literally means 'acquired in addition' or 'additionally gotten'. In ancient Greek naming practice, this type of name, derived from the circumstances of acquisition, was given to enslaved persons brought into households, adopted individuals, or late-born children.
The irony embedded in the name is profound: Epictetus, born enslaved in Hierapolis around 50 CE, was named for his condition of being property, yet went on to teach that the only true possession a human being has is their own will and their capacity for rational judgment. His philosophy redeems the name entirely.
The name Epiktetos appears in ancient papyri and inscriptions as a slave name and also as an independent name in free families. Its modern use is virtually nonexistent outside scholarly and philosophical contexts.
Cultural Significance
Epictetus is one of the most important and beloved figures in the Stoic philosophical tradition. Born enslaved, he studied philosophy under Musonius Rufus in Rome, was later freed, and eventually established a school in Nicopolis that attracted students from across the Roman world. His teaching was recorded by his student Arrian in the Discourses and the Enchiridion (Handbook).
His philosophy centers on the distinction between what is in our power (our own judgments, desires, and choices) and what is not (our body, reputation, and external events). This dichotomy, radical in its implications, has influenced Marcus Aurelius, Montaigne, and modern cognitive behavioral therapy. The Enchiridion remains one of the most read philosophical texts in the world.
For modern parents, choosing Epiktetos would be a powerful declaration of philosophical values, an acknowledgment that inner freedom and rational self-mastery matter more than circumstance. It is rarely used but carries immense intellectual weight.
Famous people named Epiktetos
Epictetus of Hierapolis
Epictetus (vase painter)
Frequently Asked Questions
Names like Epiktetos
Epameinondas
“abiding among men or one who remains steadfast”
Epameinondas is a compound ancient Greek name whose elements combine 'epi' (upon, among), 'meno' (to stay, remain, abide), and 'andros' (man), yielding a meaning of 'one who stays among men' or 'the steadfast man'. The name is most famous through Epameinondas of Thebes, the fourth-century BCE general and statesman who defeated Sparta at the Battle of Leuctra, ending Spartan military dominance of Greece.
Epiphanios
“appearance”
Epiphanios derives from 'epiphainein', meaning to appear or manifest, composed of 'epi' (upon) and 'phainein' (to show, to shine). The name conveys the idea of a divine or glorious appearing, a revelation. It is closely related to the Christian feast of Epiphany (the manifestation of Christ to the Magi), and was borne by several important early church fathers, most notably Epiphanius of Salamis.
Philemon
“Affectionate and loving by nature”
Philemon is a classical Greek name with a rich literary and biblical heritage that entered English usage through Christian tradition and Renaissance scholarship. In the New Testament, Paul's Epistle to Philemon addresses a Christian convert called by this name, giving it strong ecclesiastical roots. In English the name has been used since the Reformation era, particularly among Puritans and later Nonconformists who favoured biblical names.
Where you'll find Epiktetos
Epiktetos shows up in these curated collections across Namekin.