Pankratius

Pankratius is a male first name that has evolved from the Latin form of the Greek name Pankratios (Παγκράτιος). Originally, this name served as an epithet for Zeus. In translation, it means 'the Almighty', 'the very powerful', or 'the all-powerful'.

What does the name Pankratius mean?

The name Pankratius derives from the Greek Pankratios (Παγκράτιος), which was used as an epithet for Zeus. Translated, it means 'the Almighty', 'the very powerful', or 'the all-powerful'. Its origin is found in Ancient Greek, where the elements pân (πᾶν) mean 'all' or 'comprehensive' and krátos (κρᾰ́τος) means 'the power', 'the might', 'the strength', or 'the dominion'. The name spread through Saint Pankratius, a Roman martyr from the 3rd century, who is among the 14 auxiliary saints. Additionally, he is considered one of the three Ice Saints along with Bonifatius and Servatius. Variants of the name include Pankraz, Pankrac, Pancras, Pankrati, Pancrazio, Pankrates, Pangrazio, Pankratij, and Pancratius. Female forms include Pankratia and Pankrazia.

Where does the name Pankratius come from?

The first name Pankratius has its roots in Ancient Greek, where it carries the meaning 'the all-powerful' or 'the Almighty'.

How do you pronounce Pankratius?

The pronunciation of Pankratius is four syllables and classical. In the German language, the name is usually pronounced as 'Pan-kra-ti-us' [paŋˈkʁaːtsiʊs], which results in a clear syllable structure with an emphasized second syllable. The darker 'a' in the middle gives the name depth and weight. The ending '-ius' provides an educated, almost sacred resonance. Overall, Pankratius radiates dignity and tradition - it sounds solemn, historically anchored, and carries an ancient grandeur.

When is the name day of Pankratius?

Pankratius is celebrated on April 3 and May 12.

Popularity

In Germany, Pankratius is a rather rare first name. In 2015, it ranked 3,972nd on the list of the most common male baby names. In the last ten years, the name has been given less than 10 times, placing it at 8,008th in the ten-year statistics. From 2010 to 2024, it ranks 9,767th. For worldwide popularity and frequency of Pankratius, one can refer to the rankings in the name charts of various countries.

Famous people

• Pankratius (Ice Saint)
• Pankratius Klemme (German theologian)
• Pankratius Pfeiffer (Salvatorian priest)
• Pankratius von Dinkel (Bishop of Augsburg (1858-1894))