νίκη
níki/ˈni.ci/feminine
In Greek, the word for victory is νίκη (níki).
The noun νίκη refers to the state of having won a battle, a competition or an effort. It is used both for literal victories, such as in sports or military contexts and for metaphorical successes in business or life.
Meaning: condition or state of having won a battle or competition, or having succeeded in an effort, an instance of this (noun)
Which one should you use?
While νίκη is the common term for victory, Θρίαμβος is used specifically to emphasize a grand and glorious victory.
How does it change in a sentence?
νίκη is a feminine noun. The genitive singular form, used to say "of the victory", is της νίκης.
How do you pronounce it?
The word is pronounced /ni.ci/. It has two syllables, with the stress on the first syllable.
Did you know?
- The Greek word νίκη is the root of the name 'Nike', both for the global sportswear brand and the ancient Greek goddess of victory.
- In Greek mythology, 'Νίκη' (Nike) was the personification of victory, often depicted as a winged goddess carrying a laurel wreath.
- The 'Winged Victory of Samothrace', one of the most famous sculptures in the Louvre, is a physical representation of νίκη as a divine messenger.
Examples in context
- Η νίκη είναι δική μαςThe victory is ours.
- θρίαμβοςGlorious victory
Example conversation
Two friends are discussing a football match.
- Κώστας KostasΕίδες τον αγώνα χθες, Αναστασία;Eides ton agona chthes, Anastasia?Did you see the game yesterday, Anastasia?
- Αναστασία AnastasiaΝαι, ήταν μια απίστευτη νίκη!Nai, itan mia apistevti niki!Yes, it was an incredible victory!
- Κώστας KostasΠιστεύεις ότι θα κερδίσουν πάλι;Pisteveis oti tha kerdisoun pali?Do you think they will win again?
- Αναστασία AnastasiaΕλπίζω να το καταφέρουν, Κώστα.Elpizo na to kataferoun, Kosta.I hope they manage it, Kostas.
Sources
- Wiktionary, “victory” translations and entries νίκη, CC BY-SA 4.0, dump of 2026-09-26.
- Pronunciation from the Wiktionary entry Νίκη.
