Skip Ancestry navigation Skip to Footer Ancestry Home
  • Home
  • Trees
  • Search
  • Memories
  • DNA
  • Subscribe
  • Cart
  • Sign In
Home
Loading

Trees you own

    Shared with you

      Tree tools

      • My Trees
      • First Name Meanings
      • Last Name Meanings
      • Individual Records Search
      • Family Trees Support
      • Start a New Tree
      • Upload a GEDCOM
      Loading
      • All Collections
      • Census & Voter Lists
      • Birth, Marriage & Death
      • Military
      • Immigration & Travel
      • Public Member Trees
      • Card Catalogue
      • Member Search
      Memories
      Loading
      • Register a kit
      • AncestryDNA® Learning Hub
      • Traits Learning Hub
      • AncestryDNA®
      • AncestryDNA® Support
      Loading
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Academy
      • Community
      • Hire an expert
      • Site Status
      Loading
      • Support Centre
      • Ancestry Academy
      • Community
      • Hire an expert
      • Site Status
      Discover More Family Names with an Ancestry 14-day Free Trial* 
      • Support Centre
      • About Us
      • Site Map
      • Gift Memberships
        • Ancestry Corporate
        • Fold3.com
        • ForcesWarRecords.com
        • Geneanet.org
        • Newspapers.com
        • ProGenealogists.com
        • RootsWeb.com
      • © 2006-2026 Ancestry
      • Privacy
      • Cookies
      • Terms and Conditions
      • Operated by Ancestry Ireland Unlimited Company
      Group of people

      Meaning of the first name Nereus

      Origin

      Greek

      Meaning

      Water

      Variations

      Dangereuse, Atreus, Creusa
      The name Nereus traces its origins back to ancient Greece, where it holds significant meaning related to water. Derived from the Greek word neros, meaning water, Nereus is the name of a primordial sea god in Greek mythology. Regarded as the eldest son of Pontus (personification of the sea) and Gaia (mother earth), Nereus is often associated with the Mediterranean Sea. In Greek mythology, Nereus is depicted as a wise and elderly sea deity, often found accompanying his fifty daughters called the Nereids. These nymph-like figures personify various aspects of the sea, such as waves, currents, and sea foam.

      The name Nereus has had a lasting impact on history and has found its way into modern-day usage. In ancient times, Nereus served as a suitable name for individuals associated with maritime occupations, reflecting their affinity with water. Furthermore, the name has appeared in various works of art and literature, including ancient Greek poetry and plays. In modern times, Nereus can be found as a given name, although it is relatively rare. Its association with water resonates with many parents seeking a meaningful and unique name for their child. Additionally, the name Nereus continues to inspire creative works in literature, film, and other forms of artistic expression.

      Based on our records...

      Johnson

      Johnson

      This is the most common surname associated with Nereus.
      Van

      Van

      This is the most common name of those married to a Nereus.
      Glenn

      Glenn

      This is the most common name for a child of a Nereus.
      Contains public sector information licensed under the Open Government Licence v3.0. - © Mapbox - © OpenStreetMap - Improve this map

      What are you curious about?

      Ready to learn more about your own family? Here are two ways to begin.
      Start a free trial
      Order AncestryDNA
      calendar.webp
      Based on our records...

      Did you know?

      1915 is when there were the most people born with the first name Nereus.

      Explore the origins of another name.