Ulysses

boyGreek

Ulysses is a boy name of Greek, via Latin origin, meaning “Possibly 'wrathful' or 'hated'”.

MeaningPossibly 'wrathful' or 'hated'
GenderBoy
OriginGreek, via Latin
Pronunciationyoo-LISS-eez
TraditionModern & Classic
Used inUnited States, Spain, Mexico, Italy

Meaning and origin of Ulysses

Ulysses is the Latin form of the Greek Odysseus, hero of Homer's Odyssey, who spends ten years sailing home after the Trojan War. The Greek name is traditionally linked to odyssomai, 'to be angry', but scholars think it may be pre-Greek and its meaning is uncertain. Ulysses S. Grant, the Union general and American president, and James Joyce's novel Ulysses kept the name familiar.

Is Ulysses a religious name?

Ulysses comes from Greek myth and has no religious background.

How popular is Ulysses?

Rare in English, more common as Ulises in Spanish-speaking countries.

Gifts with the name Ulysses

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Spellings and variants of Ulysses

OdysseusUlisseUlisesUlisses

Names similar to Ulysses

More boy names

Frequently asked questions

What does the name Ulysses mean?

Ulysses means 'Possibly 'wrathful' or 'hated''. It is of Greek, via Latin origin.

Does Ulysses have a religious meaning?

Ulysses comes from Greek myth and has no religious background.

How do you pronounce Ulysses?

Ulysses is pronounced yoo-LISS-eez.

Is Ulysses a boy or girl name?

Ulysses is usually a boy name.

Updated October 2026. Spotted a mistake? Tell us.