Find out how popular the first name Antares has been for the last 9 years (from 2015 to 2023) and learn more about the meaning and history.

Popularity of Antares by gender

Based on the last 9 years of data, Antares is exclusively a male name.

For the most recent data in 2023, there were 7 male babies and 0 female babies born with the name Antares.

The history of the first name Antares

Antares is a name derived from the ancient Greek language, originating in the early classical period around the 5th century BC. It takes its roots from the words "anti" meaning opposite or contrary, and "Ares" the Greek god of war. The name literally translates to "rival of Ares" or "against Mars" referencing the planet Mars in Roman mythology.

One of the earliest recorded uses of the name Antares can be found in ancient Greek astronomical writings, where it was used to refer to the bright red supergiant star in the constellation Scorpius. This star was given the name Antares due to its reddish hue, which was perceived as the opposite or rival color to the planet Mars.

In classical Greek literature, the name Antares does not appear to have been commonly used as a personal name. However, there are records of its use in ancient Rome, where it was occasionally given to individuals, likely as a reference to the celestial body.

The first recorded individual with the name Antares was a Roman philosopher and astrologer who lived in the 1st century AD. Known as Antares of Rhodes, he authored several works on astrology and the interpretation of celestial phenomena.

In the 3rd century AD, there was a Roman general named Antares Flavius who served under the emperor Aurelian. He is noted for his victories against the Germanic tribes that were threatening the Roman Empire's borders.

During the Byzantine era, Antares became a more popular name among the Greek-speaking population of the Eastern Roman Empire. One notable figure was Antares Palaiologos, a nobleman and military commander who lived in the 12th century AD and played a role in the conflicts between the Byzantine Empire and the Seljuk Turks.

In the Renaissance period, the name Antares saw a resurgence in popularity among scholars and astronomers who were fascinated by the classical Greek and Roman heritage. Antares Galilei, an Italian astronomer and mathematician in the 16th century, was named after the star and made significant contributions to the study of celestial bodies.

Another prominent figure with the name Antares was the French philosopher and scientist Antares Descartes, who lived in the 17th century. He is best known for his influential works on rationalism and philosophical inquiry, as well as his contributions to the fields of mathematics and physics.

Data source

The first name data used on this page comes from the Social Security Administration (SSA). They've been collecting data on baby names since 1880.

The history and meaning of the name Antares was researched and written by our team of onomatology and genealogy experts.

If you have a correction or suggestion to improve the history of Antares, please contact us.

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