Nike
/ˈnaɪki/noun
Nike is the ancient Greek goddess of victory and the name of a modern athletic brand.
Did you know?In ancient art, Nike was often shown flying toward victors with a wreath or palm branch, transforming triumph into a visible divine presence.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Indo-European
PIE
*neik-
“To attack or be hostile; the reconstructed root associated with Greek victory terminology.”
Mycenaean Greek
Greek
ni-ke
“An early Linear B spelling traditionally connected with the later Greek name Nike, though the exact context is debated.”
Ancient Greek
Greek
Νίκη (Níkē)
“Victory; the divine personification and goddess of victory.”
Classical Greek
Greek
νίκη
“Victory, success, or triumph in conflict and competition.”
19th Century
English
Nike
“An English mythological proper name adopted from Greek literature and classical studies.”
20th Century
English
Nike
“A modern brand name chosen in reference to the Greek goddess of victory.”
Explore more surprising origins