Greek Words with Smileys (by nextnet.gr) [click me]

An object believed to have protective or magical powers, often worn against the evil eye.

A female sibling. Often close relationships in Greek families.

The verb 'to eat' in Greek. Essential for dining.

A traditional gift/money given on New Year's Day, often accompanied by the carol 'Καλή χρονιά'. Literally means 'year-cutting'.

A backhanded compliment: either ‘large-eyed like a sacred cow’ or ‘wrathful as a charging bovine’.

The number eight in Greek. Used in counting and mathematics.

The concept of destiny, often represented by the Moirai (Fates), who spun and cut the thread of life.

A powered flying vehicle. Greece has many islands only accessible by plane.

Hector’s devoted wife, symbol of tragic wartime womanhood.

In ancient Greek cosmogony, Chaos was the primal void — the nothingness from which everything emerged.

A vibrant local celebration with food, music, and dancing, often religious in origin.

Literally 'joy-light'—the first light of day, symbolizing hope and new beginnings.

The unchangeable thread spun by the Fates (Clotho, Lachesis, Atropos). Even gods obeyed it.

Used to describe someone street-smart, cool, or confident—mostly masculine slang.

The standard way to express gratitude in Greek. Can be used in all situations.

A casual way to ask someone how they’re doing.

Means 'free of charge' but can also mean 'wasted effort' depending on context.

A deep and powerful word in Greek, often used in romantic, familial, or spiritual contexts.

The standard affirmative response in Greek. Often accompanied by a nod.

Who frees (λύω) through ecstasy, wine, and theater. Opposite of Apollo’s order.

The number seven in Greek. Considered a lucky number.

A male sibling. Greek families often have close sibling relationships.

Expresses fatigue or exhaustion. Feminine form: Κουρασμένη.

Literally 'without worries', describing someone who lives in the moment without stress.

The male parent. Traditionally the head of the household.

A deep pride in ownership (especially land/homes), often passed through generations.

A casual way to get someone's attention. Can be affectionate or rude depending on tone.

Used to apologize or to politely get someone's attention.

Achilles’ beloved friend whose death sparked the hero’s return to battle.

The day after today. Used when scheduling future events.

The epic journey back home (like Odysseus’). Root of ‘nostalgia’ (pain for home).

An enthusiastic way to greet someone or praise them. Very friendly and informal.

Refers to a group of friends or companions. Socializing is important in Greece.

A male child. Traditionally carries on the family name.

Moving or capable of moving at high speed.

A Greek word describing a state of cheerfulness and high spirits.

A foundational verb in Greek, used for both doing and making something.

A word echoing ancient Greek belief in the three Fates — what is meant to be.

With its long coastline, Greece has excellent seafood and fish dishes.

A common fruit in Greece, often used in desserts like apple pie.

A verb that captures both physical and emotional pain.

The state of living forever — in memory, spirit, or cosmic essence. A word used in myths, poetry, and philosophy.

That intense, dry summer heat that makes cicadas sing and olive trees shimmer.

An intense feeling of deep affection. Central to Greek philosophy.

Used from early morning until about 12-1pm. A polite greeting during these hours.

Homer’s iconic metaphor for sunrise—fingers of light ‘grasping’ the horizon.

Essential word for asking for water, especially in hot Greek summers!

The verb 'to drink' in Greek. Used for beverages.

In Homer, it meant martial bravery; later, moral virtue. The pursuit of one’s highest potential.

A period of 365 days (or 366 in leap years).

To cross-examine and refute, exposing contradictions—how Socrates taught critical thinking.

Unpleasant to look at. The opposite of 'όμορφος'.

An alcoholic drink. Greek brands include Mythos and Fix.

His arrows spread plague—a veiled threat in epithets (e.g., ‘smiting the Greeks at Troy’).

The current day. Greeks often use this when making plans.

Used to describe a kind, affectionate, or adorable person. Feminine form: Γλυκιά.

The star around which Earth orbits. Greece enjoys abundant sunshine.

The number five in Greek. Common in counting and telling time.

Of poor quality or undesirable. The opposite of 'καλός'.

The first signs of spring - blossoms, green grass, and Easter preparations.

The standard negative response in Greek. Often accompanied by a slight upward head tilt.

A casual way to get someone's attention. Can be affectionate or rude depending on tone.

A unit of time equal to 60 minutes. Greeks often use the 24-hour clock.

The wise old counselor of the Greeks, famed for his lengthy stories of past glory.

Goddess of wild places. Athenians sacrificed 500 goats to her after Marathon.

Literally 'dry stone'—eating meze (appetizers) without alcohol, considered almost sacrilegious in Greek culture.

A luminous point in the night sky. Greece has clear skies perfect for stargazing.

Used for both sacred rituals and the unknowable nature of life or the divine.

More than just liberty — it’s the sacred concept of inner and outer freedom, deeply rooted in Greek history and soul.

The humbling feeling when faced with something sacred or sublime.

Delphi’s call for balance. Even good things (wisdom, courage) become vices if extreme.

A Greek concept meaning to do something with passion and soul.

The invincible warrior whose speed matched his rage. Only his heel was vulnerable.

Used both for literal dreaming and for expressing hopes and desires.

Refers to drinking water or water in general. Essential in hot Greek summers!

Of limited size. The opposite of 'μεγάλος'.

Aristotle’s ‘good-spirited’ state: happiness achieved through virtue, not pleasure.

A female child. Often doted on in Greek families.

Refers to both the unique spinning dance of the Peloponnese and the ancient Doric-derived dialect.

Central to Greek spiritual life — the essence of being, often tied to love, memory, and eternal existence.

The bittersweet experience of being far from home, mixing nostalgia with adventure.

The verb 'to come' in Greek. Used for movement toward.

The goddess of retribution, balance, and cosmic justice — the force that ensures no excess goes unpunished.

More than a city—a self-governing community (e.g., Athens, Sparta) with shared identity and laws.

The famous volcanic island with white buildings and blue domes.

Used when talking about movement or travel to a place.

Expresses anger or frustration. Feminine form: Θυμωμένη.

Greeks take their coffee seriously - usually strong and served in small cups.

Epithet for the demigod after completing his labors. Kallinikos = ‘beautiful victory’.

Refers to both the physical house and the emotional idea of home.

A philosophical concept meaning both weather and the opportune moment (similar to 'kairos' in rhetoric).

One of the most powerful Greek verbs, used for people, things, ideas, and even places.

The female parent. In Greek culture, mothers often have a central role.

Greek cuisine features various meats, especially lamb, pork, and chicken.

A playful insult for someone gullible, often used affectionately among friends.

Literal and metaphorical — light of the sun, light of the soul, or spiritual truth.

An intense physical or emotional desire—for food, a person, or even a place.

An urban area. Athens is the capital and largest city of Greece.

Homer’s epithet for the ‘man of twists and turns’—master strategist and survivor.

More formal than 'συγνώμη', used to get attention or when passing through.

Of considerable size. Used to describe objects, places, or concepts.

The number nine in Greek. Used in various numerical contexts.

A unit of time equal to 60 seconds. Used in telling time.

The cliff-dwelling monster with six snapping heads (ἕξ = six, κρανίο = skull).

A division of the year. Greece follows the Gregorian calendar.

Used when parting in the evening or before going to sleep.

Epic epithet when Zeus summons storms—often while angrily thundering at gods/mortals.

Achieved without great effort. The opposite of 'δύσκολος'.

A night of unrestrained feasting, drinking, and dancing with friends.

Earth's natural satellite. The Greek word for Monday (Δευτέρα) comes from this.

The number ten in Greek. A complete number often used in ratings.

In Greek culture, this represents the essence of a person, much deeper than just 'soul' in English.

Aristotle’s concept of emotional cleansing through tragedy—why we cry at sad plays.

In Hesiod’s cosmology, the formless origin of everything. Not ‘disorder’ but infinite potential.

The verb 'to be' in Greek. Essential for forming sentences.

Of high quality or virtue. Used in many common phrases.

Greece has many mountains, with Olympus being the most famous.

Used to describe someone street-smart, cool, or confident—mostly masculine slang.

The warmest season. Peak tourist season in Greece.

Used to apologize or to get someone's attention (like 'excuse me').

Used for both the sea breeze and a person's spiritual energy or presence.

Describes someone scowling so hard their face resembles a walnut shell.

Used to describe someone who feels joy or is in a good mood. Feminine form: Χαρούμενη.

The number six in Greek. Used in various numerical contexts.

An enthusiastic way to greet someone or praise them. Very friendly and informal.

Expresses pride—often used about accomplishments or loved ones. Feminine form: Περήφανη.

The pure upper air the gods breathed — associated with the divine light of the heavens.

A dwelling place. Greek homes often have balconies and outdoor spaces.

A basic sensory verb used for seeing or watching.

A tale carrying timeless truth — not just a story, but a vessel of archetypal knowledge and power.

A deep, existential verb — also used romantically or spiritually.

Consider consequences before acting. Croesus misunderstood this at Delphi, losing his kingdom.

The number two in Greek. Often used when ordering or counting.

A period of seven days. The Greek week starts with Monday (Δευτέρα).

That special mood when you're ready to celebrate and enjoy life to the fullest.

Used to express refusal or disagreement. Be careful—it's pronounced differently than in English!

Extremely important in Greek culture, often including extended relatives.

Spartan king whose stolen wife (Helen) started the Trojan War.

Delphi’s command to prioritize lifelong learning—root of ‘encyclopedia’.

The ancient Greek concept of sacred hospitality, literally 'love of strangers'. A core value in Greek culture.

Pindar’s epithet for peaks tinged purple at dusk (ἴον = violet, στέφανος = wreath).

A feathered flying animal. Greece has diverse birdlife, especially migratory species.

A word tied to both wonder and the occult — it speaks of supernatural forces, ancient rites, and the unseen.

High King of Mycenae, leader of the Greeks at Troy. His arrogance cost him dearly.

The verb 'to hear' in Greek. Used for auditory perception.

Describes someone (usually male) with graceful, athletic beauty - a Homeric ideal.

The number three in Greek. Used in counting and ordering.

A very common verb—especially important in a country famous for its cuisine!

Athena as battle strategist. Her colossal statue guarded Athens’ Acropolis.

The day before today. Used when referring to past events.

Central to Greek life: athletic (Olympics), artistic (theater), or intellectual (debates).

A poetic personification—the sound of breezes through trees as ‘wind laughter’.

The moon goddess’ light ‘walking’ on water with shimmering (ἄργυρος = silver) steps.

The most common Greek greeting, used both when meeting and parting. Pronounced 'YAH'.

A deep emotional longing for the past — often sweet, often painful. This Greek-origin word is now used globally.

Greece is surrounded by sea which plays a huge role in its culture and economy.

A Thessaloniki-favorite slang for relaxed, easy-going vibes.

Warning against hasty oaths. Seen in tragedies (e.g., Agamemnon’s vow to sacrifice Iphigenia).

A husband or wife. Marriage is highly valued in Greek culture.

Delphic wisdom to listen before speaking. Linked to Apollo’s oracle (‘speak not much’).

Moving or operating at low speed. The opposite of 'γρήγορος'.

A prophet or diviner — in ancient Greece, the one who reads signs, dreams, and omens.

A uniquely Greek concept meaning love of honor, pride, and dignity.

Socrates’ ‘divine sign’—a spiritual guide warning against wrong actions.

The mixed feeling of happiness and sadness, like at weddings or graduations.

A deep love for what you're doing, putting soul into your work. There's no exact English equivalent.

A versatile verb meaning both 'to do' and 'to make'.

The sacred bond between host and guest, protected by Zeus Xenios. Violations led to myths (e.g., the Cyclops).

The number four in Greek. Used in various contexts.

The verb 'to go' in Greek. Used for movement.

The ‘Great Ajax’—a tower of strength with his colossal shield. Died by his own sword.

Describes warm, nurturing love—like a parent’s hug or a grandparent’s care.

A hot beverage. Mountain tea (τσάι του βουνού) is popular in Greece.

A gentle, optimistic verb that carries light and possibility.

A popular Greek fast food of meat grilled on a skewer.

Linked to light (λύκη = dawn) and wolves. Patron of young warriors.

Someone you have a bond of mutual affection with.

A term of endearment for a courageous, honorable young man (from palikar, Ottoman-era militias).

A 24-hour period. Also refers to daytime as opposed to night.

The verb 'to have' in Greek. Used for possession.

Homer’s description of Polyphemus, emphasizing his single, glaring eye (γυρομάτης = ‘circular-eyed’).

Themis (goddess of divine law) ruled Delphi before Apollo. Moral order > power.

A deep, almost painful desire for someone/something unattainable (root of the English 'pathos').

The youngest Greek general at Troy, who wounded Ares and Aphrodite in battle.

Inscribed at Delphi. Socrates used it to expose false wisdom.

Means 'free of charge' but can also mean 'wasted effort' depending on context.

The verb 'to see' in Greek. Used for vision.

A versatile word meaning both 'please' when making a request and 'you're welcome' in response to thanks.

A verbal or symbolic enchantment — used in rituals, folk traditions, and mystic practices.

Small shared dishes meant to accompany drinks, but often becoming a full meal with friends.

The number one in Greek. Used for counting and ordering.

A fleeting instant, full of meaning — perfect for meditation or reflection.

Olives are fundamental to Greek cuisine and culture, often called 'the fruit of the gods'.

The verb 'to say' in Greek. Used for communication.

The traditional Greek anise-flavored alcoholic drink.

Odysseus’ faithful wife, whose intelligence matched her husband’s (glaucōpis = owl-eyed, wise).

Homer’s term for the ocean’s untamable vastness (ἀ-τρύγητος = ‘unreaped’).

Protector of guests and hosts. Violating xenia (guest-friendship) meant defying Zeus.

A way or path. Greek roads can range from modern highways to ancient paths.

A hero’s social value, measured in gifts, respect, or revenge for slights (see Achilles).

A Thessaloniki-favorite slang for relaxed, easy-going vibes.

The condition that distinguishes organisms from inorganic matter.

A staple of Greek meals. Often served with olive oil or as part of meze.

More than just friends - the people you choose to spend your time with regularly.

Literally 'love of honor', a driving Greek virtue encompassing pride, dignity and generosity.

Used to say goodbye or goodnight when parting late in the evening or before bed.

The Gorgon whose gaze turned men to stone. Γοργώ = ‘dreadful’—a hissing, onomatopoeic name.

Refers to a human being. The root of 'anthropology'.

The warmth of companionship, whether among friends, family, or even strangers sharing a meal.

Troy’s noblest prince, who led chariot charges. Symbol of doomed honor.

Greek sweets include baklava, loukoumades, and galaktoboureko.

The relaxed sense of time on Greek islands, where schedules are fluid and stress melts away.

Greece has a long wine-making tradition dating back to ancient times.

Used to describe something pleasant, beautiful, or agreeable.

A deep emotional pain mixed with yearning, stronger than nostalgia but softer than grief.

Balance, peace, and unity — within oneself, with others, and with the universe.

The art of lively, often exaggerated chatter—a social pastime in villages and neighborhoods.

Used metaphorically or literally in folk magic — a trap of energy, intent, or manipulation.

Greece produces many famous cheeses like feta, graviera, and kasseri.

Pleasing to the senses or mind aesthetically. Greece has much beauty!

Used from late afternoon until nighttime. Typically after 1pm until late evening.

A friendly morning greeting, commonly used until early afternoon.

Useful when asking about or expressing language or conversation.

Used to refer to a close companion. 'Φίλος' is masculine, 'Φίλη' is feminine.