Xerxes

boyOld PersianMuslim

Xerxes is a Muslim boy name of Old Persian, via Greek origin, meaning “Ruler over heroes”.

MeaningRuler over heroes
GenderBoy
OriginOld Persian, via Greek
PronunciationZURK-seez
TraditionMuslim
Used inIran

Meaning and origin of Xerxes

Xerxes is the Greek version of the Old Persian royal name Khshayarsha, generally explained as one who rules over heroes. The most famous bearer was Xerxes I of the Achaemenid dynasty, who led a huge army into Greece in 480 BC. Its roots lie in ancient, pre-Islamic Iran. Today Zoroastrians and Parsis are its main users, and it appears now and then in the West.

Is Xerxes a Muslim name?

Xerxes is not a traditional Muslim name but an ancient Persian royal one; families seeking a name meaning ruler or hero could look at Malik, Sultan or Amir.

How popular is Xerxes?

It is rarely given; Parsis and Zoroastrians use it, and Iranians prefer the modern form Khashayar.

Gifts with the name Xerxes

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Spellings and variants of Xerxes

KhshayarshaKhashayar

Names similar to Xerxes

More Muslim boy names

Frequently asked questions

What does the name Xerxes mean?

Xerxes means 'Ruler over heroes'. It is of Old Persian, via Greek origin.

Is Xerxes a Muslim name?

Xerxes is not a traditional Muslim name but an ancient Persian royal one; families seeking a name meaning ruler or hero could look at Malik, Sultan or Amir.

How do you pronounce Xerxes?

Xerxes is pronounced ZURK-seez.

Is Xerxes a boy or girl name?

Xerxes is usually a boy name.

Updated October 2026. Spotted a mistake? Tell us.