Kokkinos Surname Meaning

The Greek surname Kokkinos (Κόκκινος) is a descriptive surname, meaning it is derived from a physical characteristic or nickname of a male ancestor. The name comes from the Greek adjective kókkinos (κόκκινος), meaning “red,” and was commonly used to describe someone with red hair, a ruddy complexion, or, in some cases, someone associated with red clothing or distinctive coloring. Such descriptive bynames were widely used in Greek communities before surnames became fixed and hereditary. Over time, these identifiers were passed down through family lines. Consequently, the surname Kokkinos signifies “the red one,” reflecting a notable physical trait of an early ancestor.