Greek/Latin Etymology 希臘與拉丁字源

Greek and Latin: The Secret Code of Naming

in Harry Potter 哈利波特角色名字淵源
by Vinia

1. Prof. Albus Dumbledore (the headmaster of Hogwarts): The word “albus” means “white” in Latin. This color came to symbolize the order of the most powerful wizards in The Lord of the Rings, e.g., Gandalf.


2. Prof. Minerva McGonagall (the adviser of the House of Gryffindor and later the headmistress of Hogwarts): “Minerva” is the Latin name for the Greek goddess Athena, goddess of wisdom.


3. Hermione Granger (very close to Harry and Ron): “Hermione” was the name of the daughter of Menelaus, King of Sparta, and Helen, the most beautiful woman in ancient Greece.


4. Draco Malfoy (Harry’s arch-enemy): “Draco” means “snake” or “dragon.”


5. Prof. Remus Lupin (a werewolf): “Lupin” derives from “lupus,” which means “wolf.”


6. Sirius Black (Harry’s godfather): “Sirius” is the Dog-star, the brightest star in the sky.


7. Narcissa Black (Draco’s mom; Sirius’ cousin): With the feminine ending “-a,” “Narcissa” is built on the word “Narcissus.” Narcissus was a beautiful youth who fell in love with his own reflection in a fountain and was changed into the flower of the same name.


8. Luna Lovegood (a very weird girl, one of Harry’s friends): “Luna” means “the moon,” the mysterious side of nature.