Polydore

Polydore is a masculine given name of Greek origin. It derives from the elements poly- meaning "many" and doron meaning "gift," and is the Latinized form of the Greek name Polydōros (Polydorus in Latin). The form Polydore is relatively rare in modern use but appears in Renaissance-era Europe as a scholarly or literary name and in Latin texts.

The most notable bearer is Polydore Vergil (also Polydore Vergilius; circa 1470–1555), an Italian humanist who spent much of his career in England. He authored The History of England (Angliae Historia), a key early modern account of English affairs. Vergil studied at the University of Padua and later served in circles connected with the English court, influencing contemporary and later historiography.

In addition to its historical usage, the name Polydore is connected to the broader family of Greek-derived names such as Polydorus and Polydōros, which appear in Classical mythology and literature. The mythological Polydorus, a Trojan prince, shares the linguistic root with Polydore, reflecting common naming practices in classical and Renaissance periods.

Usage today is limited; Polydore is largely encountered in historical, scholarly, or literary contexts rather than as a common contemporary given name. Variants and related forms may be found in Latinized historical texts or in regions with strong classical naming traditions.