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

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

A female child. Often doted on in Greek families.

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

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

A basic sensory verb used for seeing or watching.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The humbling feeling when faced with something sacred or sublime.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Moving or capable of moving at high speed.

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

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

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

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

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

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.

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

Useful when asking about or expressing language or conversation.

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

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

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

Expresses fatigue or exhaustion. Feminine form: Κουρασμένη.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Expresses anger or frustration. Feminine form: Θυμωμένη.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The male parent. Traditionally the head of the household.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

An alcoholic drink. Greek brands include Mythos and Fix.

A female sibling. Often close relationships in Greek families.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The traditional Greek anise-flavored alcoholic drink.

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

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

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

Used when talking about movement or travel to a place.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The famous volcanic island with white buildings and blue domes.

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

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

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

The number seven in Greek. Considered a lucky number.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The warmest season. Peak tourist season in Greece.

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

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

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

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

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

Greek sweets include baklava, loukoumades, and galaktoboureko.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The condition that distinguishes organisms from inorganic matter.

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

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The day after today. Used when scheduling future events.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Someone you have a bond of mutual affection with.

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

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

A gentle, optimistic verb that carries light and possibility.

A friendly morning greeting, commonly used until early afternoon.

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

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

Extremely important in Greek culture, often including extended relatives.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

A verb that captures both physical and emotional pain.

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

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

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

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

A male child. Traditionally carries on the family name.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The number four in Greek. Used in various contexts.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Of limited size. The opposite of 'μεγάλος'.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Used to describe something pleasant, beautiful, or agreeable.

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

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