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

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

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

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

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

Someone you have a bond of mutual affection with.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Extremely important in Greek culture, often including extended relatives.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The famous volcanic island with white buildings and blue domes.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

A friendly morning greeting, commonly used until early afternoon.

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

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

Greek sweets include baklava, loukoumades, and galaktoboureko.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

A gentle, optimistic verb that carries light and possibility.

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

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

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

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

An alcoholic drink. Greek brands include Mythos and Fix.

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

The male parent. Traditionally the head of the household.

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

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

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

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

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

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

The traditional Greek anise-flavored alcoholic drink.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The condition that distinguishes organisms from inorganic matter.

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

The humbling feeling when faced with something sacred or sublime.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

A female sibling. Often close relationships in Greek families.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The day after today. Used when scheduling future events.

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

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

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

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

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

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

A verb that captures both physical and emotional pain.

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

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

Expresses fatigue or exhaustion. Feminine form: Κουρασμένη.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The warmest season. Peak tourist season in Greece.

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

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

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

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

A basic sensory verb used for seeing or watching.

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

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

A female child. Often doted on in Greek families.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Used to describe something pleasant, beautiful, or agreeable.

The number seven in Greek. Considered a lucky number.

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

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

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

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

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

Of limited size. The opposite of 'μεγάλος'.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Useful when asking about or expressing language or conversation.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The number four in Greek. Used in various contexts.

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

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

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

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

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

A male child. Traditionally carries on the family name.

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

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

Expresses anger or frustration. Feminine form: Θυμωμένη.

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

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

Moving or capable of moving at high speed.

Used when talking about movement or travel to a place.

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

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

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

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