Meleagros is the Greek form of the name Meleager. In ancient Greek, it is written as Μελέαγρος.
Etymology
The etymology of Meleagros is uncertain but may derive from μέλεος (meleos) meaning "unhappy" or "useless", or from μέλας (melas) meaning "black", combined with ἀγρός (agros) meaning "field" or ἄγρα (agra) meaning "hunt" or "chase".
Mythological Significance
In Greek mythology, Meleager was a Calydonian prince, the son of King Oeneus and Althaea (or sometimes the god Ares). He is best known for leading the Calydonian boar hunt, a famous episode in epic tradition later reworked by Homer. Meleager was also counted among the Argonauts. His life was tied to a piece of firewood that his mother Althaea kept safe; when she burned it in anger, he died. He married Cleopatra, daughter of Idas and Marpessa, and fathered Polydora and, by Atalanta, Parthenopeus.
Historical Bearers
The name Meleager was also borne by one of the generals of Alexander the Great, known as Meleager (Macedonian general), who served under Alexander and later suffered for his role in the power struggles after Alexander's death.
- Meaning: Possibly "unhappy field" or "black hunt"
- Origin: Greek; Ancient Greek usage
- Type: First name
- Usage regions: Greece, Ancient Greek world
Sources: Wikipedia — Meleager