Which one should you use?
While Κύριος is the standard term for "Lord" in a religious sense, the word λόρδος is a loanword used specifically for foreign titles, such as a British Lord. You should not use λόρδος to refer to God. Other words like δεσπότης, λόρδος and άρχοντας can be used to mean "aristocrat" in a general sense.
Related words
How does it change in a sentence?
The form of the word changes depending on how it is used in a sentence. The vocative form Κύριε is used when addressing God directly, such as in prayer. The genitive form Κυρίου is used to express "of the Lord", for example, to say "the grace of the Lord".
How do you pronounce it?
The pronunciation of Κύριος is Kýrios. It has three syllables, and the stress is on the first syllable.
When do people say it?
A common traditional prayer used to ask for divine assistance is Κύριε, βοήθει μοι (Lord, help me), which utilizes the vocative form Κύριε.
Did you know?
- The word Κύριος is used in Mariupol Greek as ки́риос, demonstrating that the term persisted in Greek dialects spoken in Ukraine.
- While Κύριος refers to God or a master, the word δεσπότης can also mean 'aristocrat' but historically carried a much stronger connotation of absolute power.
Examples in context
- Ο κύριος Γιώργος είναι ο ιδιοκτήτης του ξενοδοχείου.Mr. George is the owner of the hotel.
Example conversation
Two friends are talking about their faith in a park.
- Κώστας KostasΑναστασία, πιστεύεις στον Κύριο;Anastasia, pisteyeis ston Kyrio?Anastasia, do you believe in the Lord?
- Αναστασία AnastasiaΝαι, ο Κύριος είναι η δύναμή μου.Nai, o Kyrios einai i dynami mou.Yes, the Lord is my strength.
- Κώστας KostasΚι εγώ νιώθω την παρουσία Του.Ki ego niotho tin parousia Tou.I feel His presence too.
- Αναστασία AnastasiaΕίναι πραγματικά υπέροχο, Κώστα.Einai pragmatika yperochos, Kostas.It is truly wonderful, Kostas.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “lord” translations and entries Κύριος, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Word origins: Wiktionary entries Κύριος, κύριος, CC BY-SA 4.0.
