Ares
BoyGreek
- Meaning
- uncertain (origin disputed)
- Origin
- Greek
- Pronunciation
- AIR-eez
- Syllables
- 1
- US rank 2025
- #290
- US babies 2025
- 1,157
- Best rank
- #290 (2025)
- Peak year
- 2025
Meaning and origin of Ares
Ares is usually linked to Greek roots, but its original meaning is uncertain.
Ares was the Greek god of war, known for his aggressive nature, and the Romans identified him with Mars. The origin of his name is uncertain; it may be linked to an old Greek word for ruin or battle. Ares is a son of Zeus and Hera in Greek myth. As a given name, Ares has recently grown in popularity, part of a trend for bold mythological names. It feels strong and dramatic. The name pairs well with classic middle names.
Popularity over time
Ares first appears in US Social Security records in 1983. It has ranked in the top 1,000 in 13 different years, starting in 2013. It is at its all-time high right now: 2025 brought both its best national rank, #290, and its highest count, 1,157 babies. Use has grown 239% in ten years.
Its national rank moved from #4,593 in 2000, #1,482 in 2010, and #290 in 2025. Of the 8,284 US boys named Ares since records began, 57% were born in the 2020s, its biggest decade. The 2010s come next, with 3,018 babies.
Other boys' names that peaked around the same time include Kohen, Sonny, Zyaire, Archie, and Romeo.
Where it is most popular (2025)
In 2025, Ares ranked highest in New Mexico, Nevada, and Florida.
| State | Rank there | Babies |
|---|---|---|
| New Mexico | #134 | 14 |
| Nevada | #141 | 22 |
| Florida | #201 | 109 |
| Rhode Island | #201 | 5 |
| Arizona | #203 | 41 |
Gender, sound and spelling
About 96% of US babies named Ares over the last 20 years were boys, with a small share of girls.
Ares is usually pronounced AIR-eez, with one syllable. It has four letters, starts with A and ends in “-es”.
Middle names for Ares
A few middle names that flow with Ares: each avoids a matching first letter, a rhyme and a vowel clash where the names meet.
Sibling names for Ares
Similar names
Lists that include Ares
Frequently asked questions
What does the name Ares mean?
Ares is usually linked to Greek roots, but its original meaning is uncertain.
What is the origin of the name Ares?
Ares has Greek roots. Ares was the Greek god of war, known for his aggressive nature, and the Romans identified him with Mars.
Is Ares a popular name?
Yes. Ares ranked #290 in the US in 2025, which makes it in the top 1,000.
Is Ares a boy or girl name?
Ares is mainly a boy's name. About 96% of US babies named Ares over the last 20 years were boys, with a small share of girls.
How do you pronounce Ares?
Ares is usually pronounced AIR-eez. Stressed syllables are in capital letters.
Popularity figures come from US Social Security card applications (names given to at least five babies in a year, 1880 to 2025). How we source names and meanings