"glory of the father"
"renowned, famous"
Enter your surname above to see harmony analysis
“A rare Greek treasure meaning glory of the father”
Cleophus is a Latinized variant of the Greek name Kleopas or Cleopas, derived from the elements kleos meaning glory or fame and pater meaning father — thus glory of the father or renowned one. The name appears in the New Testament: Cleopas (Luke 24) was one of the disciples who encountered the risen Jesus on the road to Emmaus, a pivotal post-resurrection story. This biblical connection gave the name lasting use in Christian communities across centuries.
Cleophus was most popular in the United States between the 1880s and 1950s, particularly in Southern African American communities where biblical and Greek-derived names were highly valued. It has declined sharply in use since the mid-20th century but retains a dignified vintage charm.
In African American naming traditions of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, classical and biblical names like Cleophus carried particular significance — they represented education, dignity, and connection to ancient heritage at a time when such connections were deeply meaningful.
Religious
One of the disciples of Jesus mentioned in the Gospel of Luke, who encountered the risen Christ on the road to Emmaus — a foundational story in Christian tradition
Other
Character played by James Brown in the 1980 film The Blues Brothers, a charismatic preacher who inspires Jake and Elwood Blues
No comments yet. Be the first to share your thoughts!
Sign in to share your thoughts on this name.
Get weekly name ideas — rising picks, hidden gems, and sibling sets worth knowing about.