Outis

Outis is a Greek word meaning "no one" or "nobody," transliterated from Οὖτις. In classical literature, it is best known as the name Odysseus gives to the Cyclops Polyphemus as part of a ruse to conceal his true identity.

In the Odyssey, Odysseus responds to Polyphemus's question about his name with "Outis," which is commonly interpreted as "No one." When Polyphemus cries out that Nobody is hurting him, the other Cyclopes believe him and hesitate to intervene, enabling Odysseus and his companions to escape. The episode is widely discussed as a masterful example of wordplay and strategic disguise in ancient epic.

Beyond the myth, the name Outis has become a symbol in literature and criticism for cunning, disguising one’s identity, or challenging straightforward authorship. It is sometimes cited in discussions of narrative voice, ruse, and the ethics of deception in storytelling.

In modern usage, Outis is also adopted as a pseudonym or alias by various writers, artists, and online identities, often to evoke anonymity, subversion, or classical allusion. The term remains a notable reference point in studies of the Odyssey and of how names can function as plot devices.