Teucer

Teucer is the Latinized form of the Greek name Τεῦκρος (Teukros), of uncertain origin. It may be related to the name of the Hittite god Tarḫunna, suggesting a possible pre-Greek or Anatolian etymology.

Mythological Figure

In Homer's Iliad, Teucer is the son of King Telamon of Salamis and his second wife Hesione, daughter of King Laomedon of Troy — making Teucer the nephew of Priam, king of Troy. A renowned archer, he fought alongside his half-brother Ajax in the Trojan War, often shooting his arrows from behind Ajax's massive shield. During the war, he killed many Trojans, but was notably prevented by Apollo from shooting Hector. After the war, Telamon blamed Teucer for failing to avenge Ajax's death and exiled him. Following his exile, Teucer sailed to Cyprus, where he founded the city of Salamis, named after his birthplace. This foundation story established him as a key figure in Cypriot Greek tradition.

Variant Forms

The original Greek form Teukros is a direct variant. Both forms reflect the name's mythological legacy.

Key Facts

• Meaning: Uncertain; possibly of Anatolian origin, related to the Hittite god Tarḫunna.
• Origin: Greek mythology, with possible pre-Greek roots.
• Type: First name drawn from epic literature.
• Usage: Historically Greek; today rare outside scholarly or mythological contexts.